FREE ESSAY ON HOW I CELEBRATED NIGERIA DEMOCRACY DAY
On the morning of Nigeria’s Democracy Day, I awoke full of expectation and joy. I, as a patriotic Nigerian, had been anticipating this day for a long time, thinking about the ways in which I would spend it and the events I would attend to mark this momentous occasion. On June 12 we celebrate Democracy Day, a day set aside to reflect on how far we’ve come as a nation and to remember those who fought for our freedom and fairness.
I thanked God first thing in the morning for the freedoms we enjoy thanks to the hard work of many soldiers. I also prayed for our great nation to remain at peace and for its people to come together and advance. After doing my morning prayers, I settled in with a book about the history of Nigeria and the founding of Democracy Day. In my opinion, knowing our history is essential to living in the present and creating a brighter future.
Reading about the fight for democracy in Nigeria brought up memories of the challenges and sacrifices that people there endured. I learnt about the widely hailed as the freest and fairest election in Nigeria’s history June 12, 1993, presidential election that was invalidated. Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola won the election, but the then-military government invalidated the vote, sparking significant demonstrations and violence. Nigeria did not become a democracy until 1999, and in 2018, President Muhammadu Buhari announced June 12 as Democracy Day to celebrate Chief Abiola and the fight for democracy.
Motivated by these accounts of fortitude, I resolved to devote the remainder of my day to doing something constructive for the advancement of our country and the spread of democratic ideals. I began by taking part in a neighborhood youth group’s community cleanup project. In my opinion, maintaining a safe and wholesome environment is crucial to the prosperity of our nation and the happiness of its people. I felt a sense of accomplishment as I cleaned up trash and swept the streets and sidewalks in my neighborhood.
The event I went to after the cleanup was a Democracy Day seminar put on by a non-profit in my area. Discussions and presentations during the symposium covered a wide range of issues pertinent to democratic government and nation building. I took advantage of the chance to ask questions and have meaningful interactions with other attendees, and I listened carefully as professionals and activists shared their ideas and experiences. After attending the symposium, I felt more equipped to have a positive impact on Nigeria’s democratic process.
In the afternoon, I participated in a nonviolent march calling for greater government openness, transparency, and accountability. As we made our way through the streets, I felt a strong feeling of community with my fellow Nigerians as we sought to create a more equitable and fair nation. In addition, I was reminded of the need of being an engaged citizen and holding our officials to account.
As the day drew to a close, I chose to spend the evening with my loved ones, where we will debate the meaning of Democracy Day and how each of us can help our country progress. We spoke about our ideal Nigeria and the kinds of local projects and programs we’d want to see implemented. The enthusiasm and dedication of my loved ones encouraged me, and they reminded me of the efficacy of group effort in creating change.
As I drifted off to sleep that evening, I was overcome with appreciation for the chance to celebrate Democracy Day in Nigeria and take part in events that uphold and advance democratic principles and the progress of the country as a whole. On Democracy Day, and every day, I feel a renewed feeling of dedication to working for a better and more just Nigeria. Each of us has a hand in determining the course of our country, and I want to play mine by helping to make Nigeria a shining example of democracy and growth in Africa and beyond.