Democracy: Muslim Professionals charge Nigerians to utilize diversity for growth, development

Nigerians have been charged to reflect and explore the quality, direction and impact of the country’s democracy, for socio-economic and political growth and advancement.

The National Amir of The Companion, an association of Muslim men in business and the professions, Imam Nojeem Jimoh, made the call in a message he personally signed and circulated among journalists.

Speaking on the topic of the group’s upcoming 7th National Discourse, which is holding on Sunday, August 23, 2026, in Lagos, Imam Jimoh established that Nigeria is a nation of extraordinary diversity-ethnic, religious, cultural, linguistic, regional, economic and ideological, positing that the diversity is a strength when properly managed, still, can provoke tension, division and political manipulation, if stakeholders fail to manage the resources positively.

Against this background, the Amir said that the Discourse seeks to examine how effectively Nigeria’s democratic system accommodates and manages the diversities.

Amir Jimoh noted that democracy is not merely about elections, political parties and the periodic transfer of power, instead, it is fundamentally about good governance, inclusion, justice, accountability, citizens’ participation and respect for the rights and dignity of every Nigerian.

“The National Discourse will provide an opportunity to examine whether these ideals are being adequately reflected in our democratic experience.

“The conversation is particularly important at a time when Nigerians are increasingly concerned about the quality of political leadership, electoral processes, insecurity, economic hardship, institutional weaknesses and the widening gap between citizens and those who govern them.

“These challenges demand thoughtful interrogation rather than silence, apathy or despair.

“The Discourse is designed to bring together thought leaders, scholars, political actors, professionals, religious leaders, civil society representatives, the media, young Nigerians and other stakeholders for an honest, constructive and intellectually stimulating conversation about the future of Nigeria’s democracy.

“As an organisation committed to responsible citizenship and national development, The Companion believes that Muslims and, indeed, all Nigerians have a responsibility to contribute positively to the democratic process. Our faith, professional competence and civic responsibility demand that we promote justice, accountability, peaceful coexistence and the common good” The Companion leader stressed.

Following the significant reasons for the topic, Imam Jimoh urged members of the public to see the exercise not just as another public lecture, but as a national conversation that concerns every Nigerian.

“Whether you are a politician, professional, business owner, student, religious leader, civil servant, or concerned citizen, the quality of Nigeria’s democracy affects you directly” the Amir restated.

He called on young Nigerians to participate, as they constitute a significant part of Nigeria’s present and greater part of its future, adding that their voices, ideas, frustrations and aspirations must be part of the conversation about “what kind of democratic society Nigeria should become”.

Amir reiterated, calling on Nigerians to be part of the exercise, not just to discuss Nigeria, but to reflect on what each can do to build a democracy that works for all, stressing that Nigeria’s democracy belongs to all, therefore, its future must be a collective conversation.

The Companion 7th National Discourse, which is scheduled to hold at JF Ade Ajayi Auditorium (Main Auditorium), University of Lagos offers an important platform to ask difficult but necessary questions, challenge assumptions, examine practical solutions and strengthen collective understanding of how Nigeria can turn its diversity from a source of division into an asset for democratic stability, national cohesion and sustainable development.

The session which is organized under the theme: “Nigeria’s Political Landscape and the Ethno-Religious Divides”, is to be chaired by the former Minister of Education and former Kano State Governor, Sardaunan Kano, Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau.

Former Edo State Governor, Senator Adams Oshiomhole is the keynote speaker, while the Chairman, Senate Committee on ICT and Cyber Security, Senator Shuaib Salis and Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat are the special guests of honour.

Former Director General, Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON), Prof. Liasu Adele Jinadu will be the guest speaker.

The group’s 6th National Discourse held on Saturday, August 10, 2024, in Abuja, under the theme: “Between Patriotism and Self-Preservation”

Signed by:
Imam Nojeem Jimoh,
National Amir,
The Companion