The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has declared that Nigeria remains a beacon of democratic stability in West Africa, despite a wave of military coups sweeping across the region.
Speaking during the 2025 Democracy Day Lecture at the State House in Abuja on Thursday, Akume noted that while several African nations have regressed into military rule, Nigeria has upheld democratic principles for 26 uninterrupted years.
“At a time when many African nations are sliding back into military dictatorship, Nigeria continues to advance in democratic governance,” he stated.
The lecture formed part of the activities marking this year’s Democracy Day, with the theme ‘Consolidating on the Gains of Nigeria’s Democracy: Necessity of Enduring Reforms’.
Akume acknowledged that Nigeria had not yet reached its full democratic potential but expressed confidence in the nation’s current trajectory.
“Although we have not yet achieved the democratic ideals we aspire to, we are on a steady path that will lead us to our desired future,” he said.
Over the past five years, more than ten coup attempts have occurred across West and Central Africa, starting with the military takeover in Mali in August 2020. Subsequent coups have taken place in Guinea, Burkina Faso, Niger Republic, and Gabon.
In early 2025, Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso also withdrew from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), deepening concerns about the region’s democratic stability.
Akume paid tribute to the heroes of democracy—both living and departed—who fought against military oppression in Nigeria. He highlighted the significance of the June 12 movement, describing it as a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s democratic history.
“Today’s celebration would not be possible without the courage and determination of ordinary Nigerians who resisted military oppression, endured brutality, and stood firm in the face of rights violations,” he said.
“The June 12 movement was a defining moment. From towns to villages, Nigerians rose with one voice to demand democracy and just governance. That struggle birthed our current democratic dispensation.”
He stressed that the country owes a debt of gratitude to those who suffered imprisonment, humiliation, and even paid the ultimate price in the pursuit of democracy.
President Bola Tinubu was represented at the event by Vice President Kashim Shettima. The occasion was also attended by ministers, heads of agencies, academics, and other dignitaries.