Former President Goodluck Jonathan has said Nigeria’s democracy can only remain stable and sustainable if supported by effective economic policies that deliver tangible benefits to citizens.
Jonathan spoke on Thursday in Lagos at the 10th anniversary of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, where a report on strengthening the link between democracy and economic growth in Nigeria was launched.
He said Nigeria’s democratic system has endured over the years but warned that endurance alone is not enough without policies that improve living standards and economic outcomes.
According to him, democracy is increasingly under pressure globally due to 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.
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He added that strong democratic systems must be backed by institutions that are transparent, responsive, and capable of enabling economic growth and innovation.
The former president noted that where democratic governments fail to deliver economic progress, they risk weakening public trust and legitimacy.
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 urged policymakers, civil society actors, and the private sector to ensure that democratic governance translates into real improvements in citizens’ lives.
He said the goal should be a system where democracy not only survives but delivers opportunity, prosperity, and justice for all Nigerians.
