Nigeria’s Democracy a Model for West African Stability – Foreign Minister Tuggar.
By Caroline Ameh
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has described Nigeria’s democratic tradition as a stabilising force in West Africa, declaring it a model worthy of emulation amid growing political instability in the subregion.
In a statement issued by his Special Assistant, Alkasim Abdulkadir, on Wednesday during the country’s Democracy Day celebrations, Tuggar noted that Nigeria has continued to uphold democratic norms despite a regional trend of unconstitutional changes of government.
“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.”
His comments come as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) intensifies efforts to address recent military takeovers in Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea, and Niger.
The Minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional diplomacy, stating that the promotion of democratic governance must remain central to ECOWAS’ conflict resolution strategy.
Tuggar also highlighted Nigeria’s historic leadership role in supporting democracy and peace across the continent, referencing Nigeria’s contributions to peacekeeping missions in Liberia and Sierra Leone, and its active participation in regional deliberations aimed at restoring civilian rule in countries affected by coups.
“Democracy is not just an internal affair,” he said. “It is our strategic contribution to regional peace. Our progress strengthens the African democratic project as a whole.”
Tuggar further praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership in steering Nigeria toward economic recovery and political stability, expressing optimism that the current reforms will ultimately usher in a future of shared prosperity.
Political analysts have long viewed Nigeria’s democratic health as a barometer for the West African region, given the country’s status as Africa’s most populous nation and largest economy.
As regional tensions persist, Tuggar’s remarks reinforced Nigeria’s position as a key player in shaping the future of democratic governance across West Africa.
