The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to working with strategic partners to strengthen democratic governance for national development.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, CON, made the disclosure while presenting his special remarks at the National Convening and Report Launch on Strengthening the Nexus between Democracy and Economic Development in Nigeria on Thursday, 9th April, 2026, in Abuja.
The SGF, who was represented by the Permanent, General Services Office, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni, stated that the Federal Government remains open to constructive, evidence-driven engagement and will continue to collaborate with the National Assembly, sub-national governments, the private sector, civil society, and development partners to strengthen democratic governance as a foundation for inclusive economic growth.
He stressed that there is a need to build and sustain confidence in democratic institutions and processes through transparency, credible electoral systems, trusted dispute resolution mechanisms and a legislative environment that promotes effective oversight and representation for all citizens. He added that strengthening these pillars will not only enhance governance outcomes but also encourage deeper collaboration with development partners, including the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
In his remarks, the former President and Chairman of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, His Excellency, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, underscored the importance of freedom and justice as key elements, through which democracy thrives, enjoining government to ensure that these elements are entrenched in the democratic process for economic development.
At the formal unveiling of the report, The Democracy Dividend: Governance and Growth, the Executive Director of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, Ann Iyonu, outlined 10 policy imperatives that will catalyse national growth and development, which centre on fiscal discipline, digitised procurement, and transparency in democratic processes. She therefore called on policymakers, legislators, civil society and development partners to engage openly with the report findings and translate evidence into practical policy actions.
Chris Ugwuegbulam
Head, Information & Public Relations Department.
9th April, 2026
