The Director General of the Voice of Nigeria (VON), Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace, has asserted that Nigeria remains the indispensable “pillar of stability” in West Africa, calling for a renewed commitment to democratic ideals amidst rising regional challenges.
Speaking at the opening of the VON Forum 2026 in Abuja, Ndace addressed the theme: “51 Years of Nigeria’s Role in Deepening Democratic Stability in ECOWAS.” He emphasized that Nigeria’s role as the region’s largest economy and most populous nation has been the defining factor in the survival and resilience of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) since its inception in 1975.
A Legacy of Sacrifice
In a poignant tribute, the Director General honored the founding fathers of ECOWAS, specifically acknowledging the only surviving head of state from the original 1975 signatories. He also highlighted the “ultimate sacrifice” made by Nigerian diplomats, peacekeepers, and journalists.
Ndace noted that Nigeria’s contributions, particularly in conflict zones like Sierra Leone and Liberia, have often been undersold or claimed by others.
”It was the blood and sweat of Nigerians,” Ndace stated, pointing to panel members and keynote speakers who had been wounded in regional operations. “If we don’t blow our trumpet, nobody will blow it for us. It is important we bring currency to bear on this history.”
Addressing Democratic Backsliding
The DG did not shy away from the current political climate, describing the present era as a “defining moment.” He identified several “urgent” threats currently facing the sub-region, including:
- Unconstitutional changes of government (coups).
- Democratic backsliding and electoral tensions.
- A troubling erosion of public trust in institutions.
- Growing disenchantment among the youth regarding governance.
Ndace argued that Nigeria’s own trajectory—moving from military rule to over 26 years of uninterrupted democracy since 1999—serves as a blueprint for resilience. “Many naysayers didn’t believe Nigerian democracy would go beyond the first four years,” he said. “We have surmounted every challenge.”
The “Three Ps” Philosophy
The forum, which follows the success of the 2025 edition focused on national security, aims to engage a “new generation of Africans.” Ndace explained that VON’s mission is guided by three pillars: People, Platform, and Partnership.
As the nation’s international broadcaster, VON currently projects Nigerian perspectives globally in eight languages—including Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, Fulfulde, French, Arabic, and Swahili—with plans to expand into Mandarin to further amplify Africa’s voice.
Alignment with National Goals
The DG concluded by aligning the forum’s objectives with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda and the strategic direction of the Ministry of Information and National Orientation. He praised the President’s commitment to regional diplomacy, noting that Nigeria’s national strength is “intrinsically linked” to the stability of the West African sub-region.
