By Ihechi Enyinnaya
Former presidential candidate and public policy advocate, Dr. Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, is set to headline the National Conference on the Future of Democracy in Nigeria, organized by the Peering Advocacy and Advancement Centre in Africa (PAACA).
The high level conference, themed “Sustaining Democratic Growth Beyond the Polls for Effective Governance,” is scheduled for Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at the NILDS Conference Hall, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Expressway, Abuja.
In a statement signed by PAACA’s Executive Director, Ezenwa Nwagwu, the event is designed to spark a national conversation on how Nigeria can consolidate its democracy through institutional resilience, governance accountability, and civic participation that transcends electoral moments.
Dr. Hashim, who will speak on “The Future of Democracy in Nigeria: Building Institutions that Outlast Elections,” is expected to dissect the core challenges confronting democratic consolidation and offer pragmatic solutions for reforming political institutions to serve the people rather than power brokers.
According to Nwagwu, Hashim’s participation will bring a wealth of experience and ideological depth to the dialogue, given his longstanding advocacy for governance rooted in equity, inclusivity, and rule of law.
“Dr. Hashim’s voice remains critical in shaping a vision of democracy that endures beyond elections. His insights will help chart pathways for building stronger institutions capable of delivering justice, prosperity, and stability for all Nigerians,” PAACA noted.
The conference will convene policymakers, civil society leaders, academics, and youth addvocates from across the country to examine Nigeria’s democratic trajectory and identify practical steps toward institutional reform and credible governance.