Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), has asserted that Nigeria's democracy is worth defending, despite the myriad challenges facing the nation's electoral and governance systems. Speaking at a public lecture held on Thursday at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja to mark the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, Akume called on Nigerians to actively participate in strengthening democratic institutions and safeguarding the country's hard-won civil rule.
Reflections on Nigeria's Democratic Journey
Reflecting on Nigeria's democratic trajectory since the return to civilian governance in 1999, the SGF described the past 27 years as a period characterized by resilience, determination, and significant progress. He noted that the country has successfully conducted eight consecutive general elections and witnessed peaceful transfers of power across political parties and regions, including a historic transition from a ruling party to the opposition.
While acknowledging the gains of democratic governance, Akume emphasized that Nigeria must confront lingering challenges that threaten the credibility of its democratic process. He identified electoral integrity as a major concern, stating that allegations of corruption within the electoral system continue to undermine public confidence. “Democracy is not merely the act of voting; it is the guarantee that every vote counts equally,” he declared.
Achievements Under Democratic Rule
The SGF highlighted several achievements recorded under democratic rule, including economic expansion, improved financial inclusion, and investments in critical infrastructure such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway. He also pointed to reforms in the power sector and expanded access to education and healthcare through initiatives like the Universal Basic Education programme, the National Health Insurance Scheme, and the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND).
Call for National Unity and Reflection
Akume cautioned against allowing ethnic, religious, and regional divisions to weaken the country's democratic foundations. He urged citizens and institutions to conduct a sincere assessment of Nigeria's democratic experience and interrogate their performance in meeting the aspirations of the people. Describing the lecture's theme, “27 Years of Democratic Governance: Achievements, Challenges and the Road Ahead,” as an opportunity for national reflection, the SGF challenged Nigerians to envision the kind of democracy they desire over the next 27 years.
“Nigeria is worth all our sacrifices and our democracy is worth defending,” Akume said. “The present and upcoming generations are standing on the shoulders of those who struggled for civil rule, and they have both the responsibility and the opportunity to build the nation our founding fathers envisioned and which our children deserve to inherit.”
