By Mashe Umaru Gwamna
The Federal Government has hailed Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance as a historic landmark, describing it as a rare feat in the country’s political history that deserves national celebration.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stated that reaching nearly three decades of continuous democratic rule represents a profound milestone for the nation.
He emphasized that preserving democratic institutions without interruption stands as a major achievement for Nigeria’s political evolution and a testament to the resilience of its people.
According to him, the achievement reflects Nigerians’ determination to uphold democratic values, strengthen national institutions, and pursue a more prosperous and united nation.
Idris made the remarks on Tuesday in Abuja during a press conference held as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
He noted that this year’s Democracy Day is particularly significant as it coincides with the third anniversary of the Renewed Hope Administration, providing an opportunity for Nigerians to assess the nation’s progress, review the impact of ongoing reforms, and renew their collective commitment to national development.
The minister stressed that Democracy Day remains a significant occasion for reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey, celebrating the resilience of democratic institutions, and honouring the sacrifices of patriots who fought to entrench democratic governance in the country.
“Democracy Day occupies a unique place in our national calendar. It provides an opportunity for us to reflect on our democratic journey, celebrate the resilience of our institutions, and honour the sacrifices of patriots who stood firm in the struggle for democratic governance,” he stated.
He paid tribute to the late Bashorun Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (M.K.O.) Abiola and other heroes of democracy whose sacrifices helped secure the democratic freedoms Nigerians enjoy today. He also acknowledged the contributions of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and numerous pro-democracy activists who played pivotal roles in the struggle to restore and consolidate democratic governance in Nigeria.
According to Idris, the administration remains committed to strengthening democratic institutions, promoting national unity, expanding economic opportunities, and delivering sustainable development through the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He explained that the press conference was organised to provide Nigerians and the international community with an overview of the administration’s three-year journey, highlighting key achievements, challenges encountered, and the vision guiding government policies and programmes.
Also speaking at the event, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, who chairs the Interministerial Committee for Democracy Day 2026, represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Akume described Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule as a defining national achievement and a testament to the resilience of the Nigerian people and the growing strength of democratic institutions.
“For nearly three decades, Nigeria has defied past patterns of interruption and has chosen the path of constitutional order, dialogue, and citizen participation,” he said.
The SGF noted that the Tinubu administration remains committed to translating democratic stability into tangible benefits for Nigerians through the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He explained that the government is implementing reforms aimed at repositioning the economy, restoring investor confidence, and expanding opportunities for citizens, adding that key reforms across critical sectors are already yielding measurable results.
Addressing recent policy decisions, Akume said:
“The policy decisions of this administration, including the removal of fuel subsidy and the reform of the foreign exchange market, were difficult but necessary.
“These bold steps were taken to end decades of unsustainable practices. Today, they have created the fiscal space required for critical investments in infrastructure, social interventions, healthcare, education, and job creation.”
He added that Democracy Day offers Nigerians an opportunity not only to celebrate democratic progress but also to critically assess ongoing reforms and renew the collective resolve to build a nation that works for all.
Akume reiterated President Tinubu’s commitment to deepening democracy and building a stronger, more inclusive, and prosperous Nigeria where governance is accountable, opportunities are expanded, and no citizen is left behind.
