George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), has expressed optimism about Nigeria’s democratic journey over the last 25 years.
According to Akume, despite challenges, there is no contemplation of a reversal in the country’s democratic progress.
News About Nigeria reports that he asserted on Tuesday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja while welcoming participants to the 2024 Democracy Day Public Lecture with the theme ’25 Years of Enduring Democracy: Prospects for the Future’, organised as part of activities lined up to commemorate 25 years of unbroken democratic governance in Nigeria.
According to Akume, the celebration should allow us to reflect on the contributions and sacrifices of our national heroes and heroines who fought for the entrenchment of democratic rule in our dear country.
“Many of them paid supreme sacrifices, while others were forced into exile or detained for years. Some of those who survived the onslaught have continued to play key roles in our democracy.
“This event provides us with opportunities as a nation and as a government to salute the courage and commitment of Nigerians for remaining steadfast and for believing in the values of democracy despite numerous challenges facing our nation and the West African sub-region as a whole,” he stated.
Earlier on Monday, the federal government declared Wednesday, June 12, a public holiday in commemoration of Democracy Day.
Aishetu Ndayako, permanent secretary in the Ministry of Interior, announced in a statement on Tuesday.
Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, minister of interior, was quoted as saying Nigerians should remain steadfast on the tenets of democratic governance.