By Olokuta Rofiat
Former Senate Leader, Senator Victor Ndoma-Egba (SAN), has described Nigeria’s democracy as “a work in progress,” urging citizens and leaders to remain steadfast in nurturing and sustaining the nation’s democratic ideals.
Speaking in Calabar while receiving members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Cross River State Council, Ndoma-Egba emphasized that democracy, like national development, is an evolving process that demands patience, participation, and perseverance.
“If America can wobble, who are we to think our path will be smooth? Democracy, like development, is always a work in progress,” he stated, encouraging Nigerians not to lose hope despite the nation’s political and economic challenges.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s 65 years of independence, the former lawmaker acknowledged that the country’s journey has been characterized by “failures, frustrations, and flashes of progress.”
However, he maintained that Nigeria has made remarkable progress compared to its starting point.
Recalling his experiences through colonial rule, military coups, the civil war, and democratic transitions, Ndoma-Egba described Nigeria’s history as “compressed and complex,” yet a testament to the resilience of its people.
“We’ve had them all at once,” he noted, adding that the country’s continued unity remains one of its greatest achievements.
He also dismissed calls for secession, arguing that no genuine Nigerian truly desires the disintegration of the nation despite widespread frustrations.
During the event, the NUJ presented Ndoma-Egba with an Award of Excellence in recognition of his enduring support for journalism and his over four decades of association with the union in Cross River State.
