Abuja, Nigeria – June 12, 2024 -The Mandate Award, a leading advocate for democratic principles and good governance, hosted a landmark event, the Mandate Democracy Day Conference & Awards Ceremony, at the prestigious Merit House building in Maitama, FCT Abuja, on Friday, June 7th, 2024. This maiden edition of the conference was themed “Democratic Governance: The Journey So Far and What Next.”
The conference brought together esteemed leaders, policymakers, scholars, activists, and stakeholders from across Nigeria and beyond to reflect on the progress made in the past 25 years of uninterrupted democratic governance and to deliberate on the challenges and opportunities ahead.
In his welcome address, Prince Chidiebere C. Ani, President of Mandate Awards Brand, emphasized the significance of commemorating democracy and its principles, especially in the Nigerian context. He stated, “Democracy is not just a system of governance; it is a commitment to the ideals of justice, equality, and participation. As we celebrate the Mandate Awards Democracy Day Conference and Award, we also pause to reflect on our nation’s journey and chart a course for the future.”
The conference featured insightful panel discussions, keynote addresses, and presentations by distinguished speakers, including government officials, civil society leaders, and renowned academics.
Topics ranged from the evolution of democracy in Nigeria to the role of technology in enhancing citizen participation and the imperative of inclusive governance in fostering national development.
One of the highlights of the event was the Mandate Democracy Awards Ceremony, where individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to advancing democratic principles and good governance were honoured.
Recipients of the awards included grassroots activists, innovative social enterprises, and visionary leaders who have demonstrated a steadfast commitment to promoting democracy and upholding the rule of law.
The conference concluded with a sense of optimism and renewed determination to strengthen democratic institutions, promote transparency and accountability, and ensure the full participation of all citizens in the governance process.
Reflecting on the significance of the event, Prince Godswill Edward, Founder, and President of the Prince 7 Youth Development Initiative, a recipient and participant at the conference, remarked, “The Mandate Democracy Day Conference & Awards Ceremony provided a vital platform for dialogue and engagement on the state of democracy in Nigeria. It is encouraging to see such concerted efforts to uphold democratic values and foster inclusive governance in our country.” He added that the Prince 7 Youth Development Initiative (P7YDI) shares the goals of the Mandate Awards, particularly in promoting good governance and civic engagement. This shared purpose led P7YDI to partner with the Mandate Awards to work together towards these goals.
Discussing the future of our democratic governance, Ivie Ogiemwonyi, Esq, Executive Director of Prince7 Youth Development Initiative, emphasized the importance of persistence among Nigerians, particularly the youth. She highlighted the necessity for continuous advocacy and engagement, urging citizens to actively participate in events such as the Mandate Democracy Day Conference & Awards Ceremony emphasizing that such gatherings play a vital role in fostering dialogue, collaboration, and collective action toward building a more just, equitable, and prosperous society.
The Mandate Award (TMA) is a leading advocate for democratic principles and good governance in Nigeria. Founded with a vision to drive a value-driven social, political, and economic nation by creating a large solution-driven network of people who will drive national growth and development. The Mandate Award works to advance democratic values and strengthen institutions for the betterment of society. Through advocacy, research, and capacity-building initiatives, Mandate Democracy strives to empower citizens, promote inclusive governance, and uphold the rule of law.
