Former Nigerian president Goodluck Jonathan has been speaking on how the county’s democracy can remain stable and sustainable if aided by effective economic policies that produce tangible benefits to citizens.
Jonathan disclosed this in Lagos at the 10th anniversary of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, where a report on strengthening the connection between democracy and economic growth in Nigeria was launched.
He stated that Nigeria’s democratic system has developred over the years but warned that endurance alone is not enough without policies that improve living standards and economic outcomes.
Jonathan said that democracy is increasingly under pressure internationally because of economic hardship, insecurity, social challenges, and growing distrust in public institutions.
“In Africa, these pressures are further reflected in contested elections, democratic backsliding, and rising instability,” he said.
Jonathan noted that while democracy is often defined by elections, its true value lies in accountability, inclusion, and the creation of opportunities for citizens.
He said Nigeria’s experience shows that democracy must be matched with deliberate economic planning to remain relevant and effective.
“Sustaining Nigeria’s democracy requires effective economic policies,” he said.
Jonathan added that countries must focus on aligning democratic governance with policies that promote growth, employment, and shared prosperity.
He also pointed to global examples like China and the United Arab Emirates, where some non-democratic systems have recorded significant economic gains, raising questions about the assumed link between democracy and development.
Jonathan implored policy makers, civil society actors, and the private sector to see to it that democratic governance results to real improvements in citizens’ lives.
