Strengthening Democracy Amid Regional Shifts

Democracy in West Africa is at a turning point, being challenged by military takeovers, public disillusionment, and systemic inefficiencies. Across the Sahel, democratic progress is inhibited by military-led governments, insecurity, and geopolitical pressures, with recent coups in Burkina Faso and Mali highlighting the fragile state of transitions. Meanwhile, Nigeria’s inclusion in the BRICS partnership reflects its aspirations for greater global influence, even as debates around neo-colonialism and regional self-determination remain prominent. As ECOWAS approaches its 50th anniversary, the regional bloc grapples with ideological shifts and tensions, including potential withdrawals by Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. These dynamics, compounded by rising extremism and disinformation, underscore the precarious state of democratic values in the region.

Amidst this volatile environment, Nigeria, as Africa's most populous nation and ECOWAS leader, holds a pivotal role. However, its closer ties with France have drawn criticism for potentially undermining regional independence from foreign influences. This edition of?Democracy Digest?explores these pressing issues, drawing insights from the?National Conference on Strengthening Democracy in Nigeria, themed?"Strengthening Nigeria’s Democracy: Pathways to Good Governance and Political Integrity."?It delves into reforms necessary to bolster governance, sovereignty, and regional collaboration, emphasising Nigeria’s evolving leadership within ECOWAS.

Building on insights from past research, we examine the role of civil society in the Sahel, the fight against disinformation, and the economic and social dividends of democracy. This edition highlights the urgent need for inclusive and accountable leadership to steer Nigeria and the broader West African region toward a more stable and democratic future. Protecting democracy requires strengthening electoral integrity through reforms that combat vote-buying, demanding transparency and good governance from leaders, and revitalising political parties as platforms for policy development and citizen engagement.

Join us as we reflect on these challenges and opportunities, exploring how Nigeria and its neighbours can recalibrate their democratic trajectories, build resilient institutions, and foster political integrity in the face of shifting regional dynamics.

Publications

Between Repression and Liberation: The Changing Face of Civil Society in the Sahel States by Dr. Lassane Ouedraogo

In the Sahel, civil society's role in democratic consolidation is shaped by conflicting narratives of repression and liberation.?Read Here.

Beyond Disinformation: Countering Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (FIMI) by Armsfree Ajanaku

Foreign information manipulation in West Africa threatens democracy, and combating disinformation requires media literacy, fact-checking, and collective action from civil society and stakeholders.?Read Here.

Spotlight

National Conference on Strengthening Democracy in Nigeria

The African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development (Centre LSD) , in partnership with CDD-West Africa, the Westminster Foundation for Democracy (WFD), the PEERING ADVOCACY AND ADVANCEMENT CENTRE IN AFRICA (PAACA), and the National Peace Committee (NPC), hosted a distinguished gathering of leaders, scholars, and civil society figures to address the challenges facing democracy in Nigeria. The event provided a platform for dialogue on safeguarding democratic values and promoting good governance.

His Excellency Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, former Vice President of Ghana, in his keynote address, highlighted the fragility of democracy amid global crises. He identified military coups, constitutional manipulations, and eroding public trust as major threats to democratic stability. Dr. Bawumia called for strengthening institutions, fostering inclusive governance, and ensuring democracy delivers tangible benefits, with a focus on youth engagement and civic responsibility.

Prof. Jibrin Ibrahim, former Director of CDD-West Africa, examined Nigeria’s democratic challenges in his presentation, "Democracy in Nigeria: Challenges, Prospects, and the 2027 Elections." While recognising Nigeria’s resilience, Prof. Ibrahim highlighted issues such as vote-buying, judicial corruption, and the lack of ideologically driven political parties. He urged Nigerians to take active roles in their democracy through participation, accountability, and reforms.

Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, former governor of Kaduna State, stressed the importance of internal democracy within political coalitions. He urged that parties learn from past mistakes by fostering competition and encouraging talent and integrity to address Nigeria’s challenges.

Emphasising the very real potential for an outright collapse, which underscored the sense of urgency, the conference also highlighted other key themes, including:

• Rebuilding Confidence in Democracy?through reforms promoting transparency and accountability.
• Towards Credible Elections in 2027?by addressing electoral and constitutional reforms for free and fair elections.
• Fostering Political Integrity?by developing ideologically strong political parties.
• Good Governance and National Development?by leveraging federalism and sub-national governance for local impact.

Forecast

The Road Ahead for Democracy in West Africa

As 2025 unfolds, West Africa’s democratic landscape will be shaped by significant challenges and opportunities, with Nigeria playing a central role. ECOWAS faces heightened tensions as potential withdrawals by Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger threaten its unity and relevance, pushing Nigeria to mediate and uphold regional collaboration. Meanwhile, growing calls for militarised governance in response to extremist threats and public discontent will test the region’s commitment to democratic norms.

Nigeria’s geopolitical manoeuvres, such as its involvement in BRICS and closer ties with global powers, will spark debates over its regional priorities and stance against neo-colonial influences. Domestically, efforts to implement electoral reforms, strengthen institutions, and combat disinformation are expected to gain momentum ahead of elections in 2027, driven by growing citizen demand for accountability and good governance. Meanwhile, West Africa’s dynamic youth population is set to drive calls for political innovation, accountability, and digital resilience, shaping the region’s democratic future.

The coming months will test the region’s resilience and resolve, but with bold leadership, systemic reforms, and active citizen participation, West Africa has a unique opportunity to recalibrate its democratic trajectory and build a foundation for long-term stability and prosperity.

Quiz

Test Your Knowledge!

Think you know the challenges and opportunities facing democracy in West Africa? Take our quiz to see how well you understand the key issues shaping the region's future. Whether you're a seasoned expert or a curious learner, this quiz will help you dive deeper into the complexities of governance, security, and regional collaboration. Ready to test yourself? Let’s go!