Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has declared that Nigeria will not join the growing list of African nations experiencing democratic backsliding and military coups.
Speaking at the public lecture commemorating Nigeria’s 26th Democracy Day celebration on Thursday at the State House Conference Centre, Akume emphasised that Nigeria is “powering forward in democratic rule” while others regress into authoritarianism.
“It is trite for me to start by congratulating all Nigerians on the occasion of the 26 years of unbroken democratic rule,” Akume began, describing the milestone as a remarkable achievement in a continent where democratic institutions are increasingly under threat.
“At a period when many African countries are sliding back into military rule and dictatorship, Nigeria is powering forward in democratic rule,” he said. “Even though we have not attained the democratic heights envisioned, we are confident that our path is straight and will lead us to our desired destination.”
Reflecting on the country’s democratic roots, Akume attributed the June 12 movement that galvanised Nigeria’s transition from military dictatorship to civil governance.
He described the movement as a nationwide wave of resistance that coalesced into a turning point for the nation.
“Today’s celebration would not have been possible were it not for the commitment and determination of ordinary Nigerian citizens who stood strong in the face of military oppression, brutality, and rights denial,” he said.
“From Lagos to Ilorin, Kaduna to Kano, Ibadan to Makurdi, Bauchi to Jos, Port Harcourt to Enugu, our people poured out onto the streets. Many fought. Many died. Many were brutalized, imprisoned, or disappeared. Many gave up all they had and never recovered. To all of them, we owe a debt of gratitude.”
He warned that democracy must be defended through development and tangible progress. “We can only immortalise them by ensuring that we guide and guard our democracy. Democracy without development is empty and bound to fail,” Akume said.
The public lecture, themed “Consolidating the Gains of Nigeria’s Democracy: Necessity of Enduring Reforms,” highlighted how Nigeria must continue reforming its institutions to sustain and deepen democratic governance.
Akume praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a true democratic soldier and patriot, noting that Tinubu’s sacrifices in the pro-democracy struggle and his current reform agenda demonstrate a clear commitment to nation-building.
“Bola Ahmed Tinubu indeed faced challenges and made sacrifices in his pursuit of democratic governance,” Akume said. “He has embarked on an unprecedented journey to re-engineer Nigeria. He is tackling economic challenges, strengthening national unity, and building infrastructure for rapid development.”
According to the SGF, the reforms introduced in the last two years have yielded visible results. “Strong indicators abound to show Nigeria is on the right track,” he added.
Akume called on Nigerians to recommit themselves to the ideals of democracy and nation-building.
“On this Democracy Day celebration, I urge us all to re-dedicate ourselves to the ideals of nation-building and the rule of law,” he said. “Let the words of our former anthem remind us: ‘Though tribe and tongue may differ, in brotherhood we stand.’ Let these words urge us to build a stronger and beneficial democracy.”
The SGF also expressed gratitude to members of the Federal Executive Council for their dedication to implementing President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Your dedication and tireless efforts have been instrumental in driving progress and achieving key milestones,” Akume stated. “Thank you profoundly for your commitment to serving the nation and advancing Mr. President’s vision.”
