By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to strengthening democratic governance through strategic partnerships, describing it as a vital pathway to achieving inclusive economic growth and national development.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, made this known on Thursday in Abuja during the National Convening and Report Launch on “Strengthening the Nexus between Democracy and Economic Development in Nigeria.”
In a statement issued by the Head of Information and Public Relations, Chris Ugwuegbulam, the SGF said the Federal Government remains open to constructive, evidence-based engagement with key stakeholders to deepen democratic governance across the country.
Represented at the event by the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, Akume noted that collaboration with the National Assembly, sub-national governments, the private sector, civil society organisations, and development partners remains central to building a resilient democratic system.
He stressed the need to strengthen public confidence in democratic institutions through transparency, credible electoral systems, and effective dispute resolution mechanisms. According to him, a legislative environment that promotes accountability and inclusive representation is critical to improving governance outcomes.
Akume added that reinforcing these democratic pillars would not only consolidate Nigeria’s political stability but also encourage stronger partnerships with international development institutions such as the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.
Also speaking at the event, former President and Chairman of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, underscored the importance of freedom and justice in sustaining democracy, urging government at all levels to entrench these values for economic advancement.
The highlight of the event was the unveiling of a report titled “The Democracy Dividend: Governance and Growth.” The Executive Director of the Foundation, Ann Iyonu, outlined ten policy imperatives aimed at catalysing national development, including fiscal discipline, digitised procurement systems, and improved transparency in governance processes.
She called on policymakers, legislators, civil society actors, and development partners to actively engage with the report and translate its recommendations into actionable policies capable of driving sustainable growth.
