By Francis Wilfred
As Nigerians celebrate her 26th Democracy Anniversary with a Public Lecture titled: Consolidating the Gains of Nigeria’s Democracy: Necessity of Enduring Reforms- brings home the reality of our time.
The Secretary To the Government Of The Federation (SGF), Sen, George Akume, CON, FNIM, congratulated Nigerians for an unbroken democratic rule.
Sen. Akume applauded Nigerians citizens for powering forward in Democratic rule in a period when many African Countries are sliding back into Military rule and dictatorship.
He further stated that though we have not attained the democratic heights envisioned, but we are confident that our path is straight and will lead us to our desired destination.
The celebration would not have been possible were it not for the commitment and determination of the ordinary Nigerian citizens who stood strong in the face of military oppression, brutality and rights denial.
“The June 12 struggle was a watershed as millions of our country men and women poured out on the streets from Lagos to Ilorin, Kaduna to Kano, Ibadan to Makurdi, Bauchi to Jos, Port Harcourt to Enugu. From the towns and villages, the cry to democracy and just coalesced into a movement,’ he noted.
The June 12 movement birthed Nigeria’s new democratic journey. He recognized that many fought, died, brutalized, disappeared, lost limbs, Imprisoned, gave up all their resources and many never recovered. To all of them we owe a debt of gratitude.
Sen. Akume urged Nigerians immortalize our fathers of Democracy by ensuring that we guide and guard our democracy. Also, we should work to bring development to Nigeria as Democracy without development is empty and is bound to fail.
Nigeria’s continuing journey of democracy is now firmly in the hands of someone, a leader who knows and is a foot soldier of democracy as well as a patriot to the core. As a key figure in Nigeria’s struggle for democracy, Bola Ahmed Tinubu indeed faced challenges and made sacrifices in his pursuit of democratic governance. His efforts contributed to the country’s transition to democracy and his commitment to democratic principles have been notable.
The SGF assured Nigerians that the president has embarked on an unprecedented journey to re-engineer Nigeria and put it on the right footing. He is tackling challenges with respect to the economy and development of nationhood as well as building the needed infrastructure for rapid development. He has also instituted relevant reforms where needed.
He said, “In two years of his administration the impact of these reforms are quite visible. String indicators abound to show Nigeria is on the right track.”
During the lecture, Prof. Sam Egwu who was the keynote speaker navigated the theme and interrogated the necessity of reforms in a democracy. A panel discussion followed to marinate the theme further and make it relatable
The SGF urged all to re-dedicate themselves to the ideals of nation building and the rule of law and to continue to support Mr. President as he leads Nigeria with purpose and determination.
He concluded by “Nigeria we hail thee. Our dear native land. Though tribe and tongue may differ in brotherhood we stand.” As these words urges us to build a stronger and beneficial democracy. Happy democracy Day
He also extend heartfelt appreciation to the Members of the Federal Executive Council for their resilience and invaluable contributions towards the successful implementation of Mr. President’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Your dedication and tireless efforts have been instrumental in driving progress and achieving key milestones. Thank you profoundly for your commitment to serving the nation and advancing Mr. President’s vision.
God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Caption
Public Lecture on Nigeria’s 26th Democracy Day Celebration with the theme ‘Consolidating on the Gains of Nigeria’s Democracy: Necessity of Enduring Reforms’ at the State House Conference Centre on Thursday, 12th June, 2025 in Abuja.
