The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has declared that Nigeria’s democracy remains worth defending despite persistent challenges facing the country’s electoral and governance systems.
Akume made the remarks on Thursday during a public lecture held at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
Addressing participants at the event, the SGF called on Nigerians to take active roles in strengthening democratic institutions and safeguarding the nation’s hard-earned democratic governance.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey since the return to civilian rule in 1999, Akume described the last 27 years as a period of resilience, determination and notable 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 an opposition party.
While acknowledging the achievements recorded under democratic governance, Akume stressed the need to address lingering challenges that continue to threaten the credibility of the democratic process.
According to him, concerns over electoral integrity remain a major issue, as allegations of corruption within the electoral system have continued to erode public trust.
“Democracy is not merely the act of voting; it is the guarantee that every vote counts equally,” he said.
The SGF highlighted several achievements recorded under democratic rule, including economic growth, improved financial inclusion and investments in critical infrastructure projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway.
He also cited reforms in the power sector and expanded access to education and healthcare through initiatives such as the Universal Basic Education Programme, the National Health Insurance Scheme and the Nigerian Education Loan Fund.
Akume, however, warned against allowing ethnic, religious and regional divisions to weaken the country’s democratic foundations. He urged citizens and institutions to undertake a sincere assessment of Nigeria’s democratic experience and evaluate how well they have met the expectations and aspirations of the people.
Speaking on the theme of the lecture, “27 Years of Democratic Governance: Achievements, Challenges and the Road Ahead,” the SGF described the gathering as an opportunity for national reflection and dialogue on the future of democracy in Nigeria.
He challenged Nigerians to envision the type of democracy they hope to build 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.”
The lecture formed part of activities commemorating the 2026 Democracy Day celebration and brought together government officials, stakeholders and members of the public to reflect on Nigeria’s democratic journey and future prospects.
The statement was issued by Yomi Odunuga, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
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