FG to work with partners in strengthening democratic governance — Akume

The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to working with strategic partners to strengthen democratic governance for national development.

George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), made this known while delivering his special remarks at the National Convening and Report Launch on Strengthening the Nexus between Democracy and Economic Development in Nigeria on Thursday, 9 April 2026, in Abuja.

Chris Ugwuegbulam, Head of Information and Public Relations, Office of the SGF, said in a statement on Thursday that Akume noted 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.

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Akume, who was represented by Abubakar Kana, Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, stressed the 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, former President and Chairman of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, Goodluck Jonathan, underscored the importance of freedom and justice as key elements through which democracy thrives, urging the government to ensure that these principles 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 aimed at catalysing national growth and development, centred on fiscal discipline, digitised procurement and transparency in democratic processes.

She called on policymakers, legislators, civil society and development partners to engage openly with the report’s findings and translate evidence into practical policy actions.