By Uzairu Dauda:
Activists, labour leaders and civil society organisations have called for a new strategy to transform citizens’ mobilisation and popular struggles into political power capable of driving democratic and social change in Nigeria.
The call was made in Abuja at a symposium marking the 60th birthday of veteran activist and social commentator, Jaye Gaskia.
The event brought together activists, academics, labour leaders and civil society representatives to reflect on Nigeria’s democratic journey, the role of progressive movements and the challenges confronting the country.
Gaskia challenged progressive forces to move beyond protests, criticism and street mobilisation, arguing that activists must develop practical strategies for acquiring and transforming political power.
He also stressed the importance of leadership development and mentorship, saying younger Nigerians must be prepared to take on greater responsibility in the struggle for social justice and democratic transformation.
A professor at the symposium urged progressive movements to learn from Nigeria’s history of popular struggles while developing strategies suited to the country’s current realities.
The professor emphasised stronger organisation, political education and sustained mobilisation as essential to achieving meaningful democratic change.
Other speakers, including labour and civil society leaders, called for greater collaboration among workers, young people, activists and pro-democracy groups.
They warned that fragmented efforts would continue to weaken the ability of progressive forces to influence political and social outcomes.
The speakers also challenged young Nigerians to move beyond social media activism and become more actively involved in organised civic and political engagement.
They stressed that online mobilisation would have limited impact unless it translated into sustained grassroots action and concrete outcomes.
Participants further urged citizens to organise around everyday issues affecting their communities and hold public officials accountable, arguing that democratic participation must go beyond voting during elections and occasional protests.
The symposium also celebrated Gaskia’s decades of activism and his contribution to Nigeria’s progressive movement. Speakers described him as a consistent advocate for social justice, democracy and popular empowerment.
A major highlight of the event was the launch of The Essential Jaye Gaskia Reader: Ideas, Movements and Social Transformation, a collection of his writings, speeches and interventions spanning several decades of political activism, social movements and advocacy for democratic change.
The discussions ultimately centred on a common challenge: how to convert Nigeria’s widespread popular discontent and citizens’ mobilisation into organised political power capable of producing lasting democratic and social transformation.
