Former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has urged Nigerian youths to demand greater accountability, opportunities and better governance from elected leaders as the country marks its 66th Independence anniversary.

Saraki, in an Independence Day message issued on Thursday, said young Nigerians who had grown up under democracy had every right to expect more from the country and its leaders, particularly in areas affecting their education, employment, security and future.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s political history, the former Kwara State governor said the significance of democracy was more readily appreciated by Nigerians who experienced military rule and witnessed the country’s return to civilian government in 1999.

“For those of us who lived through military rule, our return to democracy in 1999 meant a great deal. Simply being able to choose our leaders felt like a victory. Because it was,” Saraki said.

He, however, noted that the expectations of younger Nigerians were shaped by a different experience, as many of them had never experienced military rule or the political uncertainty that preceded the return to democracy.

Saraki said the younger generation was therefore entitled to ask whether the democratic system was delivering tangible improvements in their everyday lives.

“But imagine saying this to a young Nigerian today, one navigating university, national service, or years of looking for a job. They understand that democracy matters.

“They would just like to know when this democracy that we celebrate will begin to make a difference in their own lives,” he stated.

The former Senate President listed some of the questions confronting young Nigerians, including whether they would complete their education on time, secure employment, live safely and build fulfilling lives without being compelled to leave the country.

“Can I finish school on time? Will I find work? Can I travel safely? Do I really have to leave my country to have a chance at the life that I want?” he quoted young Nigerians as asking.

According to Saraki, such concerns should not be interpreted as evidence that young Nigerians have lost faith in Nigeria, arguing that demanding better living conditions could itself be an expression of patriotism.

He said young Nigerians were increasingly aware of the country’s potential and the talent available across different sectors, but questioned why many of them continued to struggle to secure opportunities that would enable them to thrive.

“These are fair questions. And those of us who have held public office, myself included, owe young Nigerians better answers.

“I do not believe that any young Nigerian asking these questions loves the country less. Sometimes, loving your country means refusing to accept less than what you know it can be,” he said.

The former Senate President added that young Nigerians could see the possibilities around them and were justified in questioning why so many talented citizens had to struggle to achieve basic aspirations.

“You see the talent all around you. And you wonder why so much of it must struggle so hard to gain so little,” Saraki said.

He subsequently urged young Nigerians to maintain high expectations of those seeking their votes, saying their expectations should influence the questions they ask candidates and the standards they demand from elected officials.

Saraki also urged youths to remain engaged with governance beyond election periods, stressing that civic participation should not end after voters have cast their ballots.

“Let that expectation shape how you vote, the questions you ask, and what you are prepared to accept from those you elect. And when the elections are over, keep paying attention,” he said.

He said Nigeria’s 66th Independence anniversary should also serve as an opportunity for political leaders to reflect on what the country owes its younger population.

Saraki, who served as Senate President between 2015 and 2019, concluded the message by wishing Nigerians a happy Independence Day.

Nigeria celebrates its Independence Day annually on October 1 to commemorate the country’s independence from British colonial rule in 1960.

The national holiday is marked with official ceremonies, cultural displays and other activities across the country.