A youth coalition, Renewed Hope Youth Alliance (RHYA), has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intensify efforts in tackling Nigeria’s worsening insecurity and economic hardship as the nation marks this year’s Democracy Day.

The group said June 12 remains a painful reminder of Nigeria’s long and turbulent journey to democratic governance, stressing that the sacrifices of the past must translate into better governance and improved welfare for citizens.

National Coordinator of RHYA, Comr. Awoyinfa Opeoluwa ANIS, stated this in a release on Friday, noting that democracy must go beyond rituals and political speeches to tangible improvements in security, jobs and living conditions.

He said unity and peace remain critical for national survival, warning that growing divisions and rising insecurity could further weaken public confidence in democratic institutions if not urgently addressed.

While acknowledging the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what it described as steps toward strengthening democratic participation and youth engagement, the group insisted that more decisive action is required on the economy.

According to RHYA, the harsh economic realities facing Nigerians have placed severe pressure on households, with inflation, unemployment and rising cost of living eroding the gains of governance reforms.

The group also raised concerns over persistent security threats in parts of the country, urging the Federal Government to adopt more innovative and intelligence-driven strategies to curb violence and protect citizens.

It warned that without urgent intervention, insecurity and economic strain could undermine the democratic progress being celebrated, calling for policies that prioritise human security and national stability.

RHYA further charged Nigerians to remain law-abiding and committed to peaceful engagement, insisting that national development can only be sustained through collective responsibility and civic participation.