The European Union (EU) has urged Nigeria to continue safeguarding and strengthening its democratic institutions, saying democracy must never be taken for granted but should be constantly protected, renewed and deepened through collective efforts.
- +Democracy must be protected, renewed, EU tells Nigeria on Democracy Day
The call came as Nigeria marked the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, with the EU commending the country’s democratic progress while reaffirming its support for reforms, inclusive governance, electoral development and citizen participation.
The call came as Nigeria marked the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, with the EU commending the country’s democratic progress while reaffirming its support for reforms, inclusive governance, electoral development and citizen participation.
Gautier Mignot, EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, described democracy as a continuous process driven by accountability, peaceful dialogue and the active engagement of citizens in shaping their future.
The ambassador noted that Democracy Day serves as an important reminder of Nigeria’s transition from military rule and provides an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s democratic journey as well as the efforts of millions of Nigerians working to shape the country’s future.
According to Mignot, democracy is not defined by a single event but by ongoing engagement among citizens, institutions and leaders.
“Democracy is not a single moment. It is a movement, free conversations leading to decisions, millions of voices demanding to be heard and taken into account,” he said.
He added that democracy remains a daily responsibility that flourishes through effective institutions, civic participation, peaceful dialogue and a collective commitment to ensuring that progress benefits all citizens.
The EU ambassador observed that Nigeria’s democratic system continues to evolve through active participation, dialogue and the aspirations of its people.
He pointed to growing demands for accountability by communities, increasing civic engagement by young people and the expanding role of women in leadership and representation as evidence of democratic growth.
Despite the challenges facing the country, Mignot said Nigeria’s democracy continues to advance through resilience, reform efforts and greater inclusion.
“The European Union is proud to stand alongside Nigeria in that journey,” he stated.
Highlighting the EU’s contribution to democratic development in Nigeria, the ambassador said the bloc continues to support institutions, partnerships and democratic processes through the EU Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN) programme.
According to him, the initiative is helping to strengthen citizen participation, encourage dialogue and promote inclusive engagement across the country.
Mignot explained that the EU has been working closely with Nigeria’s electoral management body to improve participation in the democratic process, enhance institutional learning and support the continued development of electoral systems.
He also emphasized the bloc’s collaboration with the National Peace Committee and other stakeholders in promoting peaceful participation, democratic dialogue and national cohesion before, during and after elections.
Beyond electoral support, the ambassador said the EU is contributing to legislative engagement, policy dialogue and collaboration within the justice sector to strengthen accountability, democratic practice and the rule of law.
He further noted that the union remains committed to promoting broader inclusion by supporting initiatives targeted at women, young people and persons with disabilities.
According to him, democracy becomes stronger when more citizens are represented and actively involved in governance processes.
Mignot also highlighted the importance of credible information in sustaining democratic institutions, noting that the EU continues to support independent media organisations, civic information platforms and fact-checking networks in an increasingly complex digital environment.
He stressed that democracy depends on participation, accountability and peaceful dialogue, as well as citizens’ confidence that their voices matter.
The ambassador said this democratic spirit can be seen across Nigeria—in classrooms, newsrooms, community meetings and among a new generation determined to influence the nation’s future.
He added that through its Global Gateway Strategy, the European Union continues to invest in partnerships designed to expand opportunities, strengthen participation and build long-term resilience for future generations.
Reaffirming the EU’s commitment to Nigeria, Mignot said democracy should never be taken for granted and must continually be protected, strengthened and renewed through collective efforts.
