Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has called on young Nigerians to hold elected officials to higher standards of accountability and performance, insisting that the country’s democracy must translate into meaningful improvements in their daily lives.

Saraki made the appeal in an Independence Day message on Thursday, October 1, as Nigeria marked its 66th anniversary of independence. He said young people had legitimate reasons to expect better governance, particularly in education, employment, personal security and access to opportunities.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s political journey, the former Kwara State governor recalled the return to civilian rule in 1999 after years of military government. He noted that Nigerians who experienced military rule understood the importance of democratic freedoms, especially the ability to choose their leaders through elections.

However, he observed that many young Nigerians today have grown up in a democratic environment and are more concerned about whether the system is producing the results they need to build stable and fulfilling lives.

According to Saraki, young people navigating higher education, national service and the search for employment want to see democracy deliver practical benefits rather than remain a political ideal celebrated during national anniversaries.

He highlighted concerns surrounding delayed education, limited employment opportunities, insecurity and the pressure some Nigerians feel to seek better prospects abroad. These issues, he argued, are legitimate questions that public office holders must take seriously.

Saraki maintained that asking difficult questions about the country's direction should not be mistaken for a lack of patriotism. Rather, he said, young Nigerians who demand better conditions are demonstrating their desire to see the country fulfil its potential.

The former Senate President also acknowledged that those who have occupied positions of public responsibility, including himself, have a duty to provide better answers to the concerns raised by the younger generation.

He pointed to the talent and potential available among Nigerian youths, questioning why many continue to face significant barriers in their efforts to secure opportunities and achieve their ambitions.

Saraki urged young Nigerians to make their expectations count when engaging with political candidates and elected representatives. He said citizens should ask relevant questions, assess the commitments made by those seeking public office and continue to monitor their performance after elections.

He stressed that civic responsibility should extend beyond voting, encouraging young people to remain attentive to government decisions and demand accountability throughout elected officials' time in office.

The former Senate President further described the 66th Independence anniversary as an opportunity for leaders to reflect on their responsibilities to the younger generation and consider whether the country is creating the conditions necessary for them to succeed.

Saraki served as President of the Nigerian Senate from 2015 to 2019 and previously governed Kwara State from 2003 to 2011.

Nigeria gained independence from British colonial rule on October 1, 1960. The annual celebration provides an opportunity to reflect on the country's history, democratic journey and continuing development challenges.

Reporting by TalkNaijaMedia