Nigeria is a Beacon of Democracy in West Africa – Foreign Minister Tuggar.
By Raymond Enoch
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has described the country’s democratic tradition as a stabilising force in West Africa, calling it a model worthy of emulation amid rising political uncertainty across the region.
In a statement issued on Democracy Day and signed by his Special Assistant, Alkasim Abdulkadir, Ambassador Tuggar said Nigeria’s consistent commitment to constitutional rule, peaceful transitions of power, and regular elections sets it apart in a region grappling with coups and democratic backsliding.
“Nigeria stands as a beacon of hope and stability in the region,” Tuggar said. “Our democratic institutions may not be perfect, but they remain resilient. In a time when democracy is under assault in parts of West Africa, Nigeria has continued to demonstrate that the rule of law, electoral accountability, and civic participation are essential pillars for long-term peace and development.”
The Minister’s remarks come amid a turbulent period in the subcontinent, with recent military takeovers in Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea, and Niger raising concerns about democratic erosion. Tuggar reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for the efforts of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to restore constitutional order in those countries.
He stressed that democratic governance must remain central to ECOWAS’ regional conflict resolution approach, noting Nigeria’s longstanding role in defending democracy across the continent—from peacekeeping missions in Liberia and Sierra Leone to its leadership in recent diplomatic interventions.
“Democracy is not just an internal affair,” Tuggar added. “It is our strategic contribution to regional peace. Our progress strengthens the African democratic project as a whole.”
Analysts have long considered Nigeria’s political trajectory as a barometer for West African stability. As the continent’s most populous nation and its largest economy, Nigeria’s democratic strength is viewed as pivotal to regional peace and development.
The Minister also used the occasion to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, particularly his efforts to steer the country toward economic recovery and political stability. Tuggar expressed confidence that Nigeria’s current reforms will pave the way for a more prosperous and unified future.
“Nigeria’s democracy is not only surviving—it is evolving,” he concluded. “And in doing so, it is helping to light the way for others.”
