The European Union (EU) has applauded Nigeria’s democratic journey and pledged continued support for efforts aimed at deepening inclusive governance, citizen participation and institutional reforms across the country.
In a message marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, described democracy as an ongoing process that thrives on active citizen engagement, strong institutions, peaceful dialogue and inclusive leadership.
Mignot said June 12 offers Nigerians an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s democratic strides since the return to civil rule and celebrate citizens contributing to democratic development.
“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 stated.
According to the envoy, democracy remains a daily responsibility that flourishes through public participation, accountable institutions and a shared commitment to ensuring that national development benefits all citizens.
He noted that Nigeria’s democracy continues to grow through civic engagement, dialogue and the aspirations of its people, pointing to increasing demands for accountability, stronger citizen involvement and greater representation of women in leadership.
“Nigeria’s democracy continues to evolve, shaped by participation, strengthened through dialogue, and driven by the energy and aspirations of its people,” he said.
While acknowledging existing challenges, Mignot maintained that democratic governance in Nigeria is advancing through resilience, reforms and inclusiveness.
The ambassador reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s democratic development through the EU Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN) programme, which strengthens democratic institutions and promotes broader citizen participation.
He disclosed that the Union is also partnering with Nigeria’s electoral management body to improve participation in the electoral process, enhance democratic engagement and encourage institutional learning.
“We are supporting Nigeria’s electoral umpire in areas that improve broader participation, democratic engagement, institutional learning and the continued evolution of electoral processes in Nigeria,” he said.
Mignot further highlighted the EU’s collaboration with the National Peace Committee and other stakeholders to promote peaceful elections and national unity before, during and after polls.
He added that the Union is supporting legislative engagement, policy dialogue and justice sector reforms aimed at strengthening accountability, democratic practices and the rule of law.
The ambassador stressed that inclusion remains central to democratic progress, noting that the EU continues to support initiatives that create more opportunities for women, youths and persons with disabilities to participate in governance.
“Democracy is strongest when more voices are represented,” he said.
Mignot also underscored the importance of credible information in the digital era, revealing that the EU supports independent media organisations, civic information platforms and fact-checking networks working to combat misinformation and strengthen public discourse.
According to him, Nigerians’ commitment to democracy is evident in classrooms, newsrooms, town hall meetings and community engagements across the country.
He added that through the EU’s Global Gateway Strategy, the Union remains committed to investing in partnerships that expand opportunities, strengthen participation and build long-term resilience.
“Because democracy is never finished, it must never be taken for granted. It must be protected, strengthened and renewed together,” he said.
The ambassador concluded by congratulating Nigerians on Democracy Day and reaffirming the EU’s support for the country’s democratic aspirations.
“Happy Democracy Day, Nigeria,” Mignot declared.
