The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) has called on the Federal Government to take urgent steps to address the country’s worsening economic challenges, insecurity, and governance deficits, warning that democracy can only thrive when it improves the lives of citizens.
In a Democracy Day statement issued on Friday and signed by ANA President, Dr. Usman Oladipo Akanbi, and General Secretary, Dame Joan Oji, the association said the occasion provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s democratic journey, achievements, and the challenges that continue to hinder national development.
ANA described democracy as a noble system founded on justice, freedom, accountability, inclusion, and respect for human dignity, stressing that such values must translate into better living conditions and renewed hope for citizens.
The association expressed deep concern over the rising cost of living, inflation, unemployment, and declining purchasing power, noting that millions of Nigerians are facing severe economic hardship.
According to ANA, many families have been pushed below the poverty line, while small businesses continue to struggle under difficult economic conditions.
The association urged the Federal Government to implement practical economic policies aimed at creating jobs, enhancing food security, promoting industrial growth, and strengthening social welfare programmes.
On security, ANA lamented the persistent threats posed by kidnapping, terrorism, banditry, communal clashes, violent crimes, and attacks on schools and rural communities across the country.
It noted that the continued insecurity has undermined public confidence and threatened national stability.
“The protection of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government,” the statement said, calling on security agencies to intensify intelligence gathering, strengthen crime prevention measures, and ensure the swift prosecution of criminal elements.
The writers’ body also raised concerns about the state of education in Nigeria, warning that any nation that neglects education risks compromising its future.
It highlighted inadequate funding, poor infrastructure, brain drain, industrial disputes, and limited access to quality education as some of the major challenges confronting the sector.
ANA urged governments at all levels to invest more resources in education, strengthen public institutions, promote literacy, encourage research, and create an enabling environment for learning and creativity.
The association further expressed concern over what it described as declining support for Nigeria’s creative and cultural industries.
It noted that writers, publishers, artists, and other creative professionals continue to face challenges such as piracy, inadequate funding, and weak institutional support.
ANA called on the Federal Government to recognise the creative sector as a key driver of national development and economic diversification by introducing policies that encourage innovation, creativity, and cultural preservation.
The association also urged authorities to address corruption, governance shortcomings, infrastructural decay, and the growing disconnect between public institutions and citizens.
According to ANA, democracy flourishes when leaders remain accountable, transparent, and responsive to the needs of the people.
It therefore encouraged public office holders to uphold integrity, strengthen democratic institutions, respect the rule of law, and ensure that public resources are used for the benefit of all Nigerians.
While acknowledging the numerous challenges facing the country, ANA expressed optimism that Nigeria’s future can still be secured through visionary leadership, responsible citizenship, and collective commitment to national development.
The association called on Nigerians to remain dedicated to peaceful coexistence, national unity, civic responsibility, and constructive engagement, while urging the Federal Government to listen to the concerns of citizens and take decisive actions that will strengthen democracy and restore public confidence.
