By Nkechi Eze
The Federal Government has inaugurated an Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) to coordinate activities for the 27th Democracy Day Celebration, with the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, urging members to commence immediate preparations for a successful commemoration of Nigeria’s democratic journey.
According to an official signed statement by the Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Yomi Odunuga, Senator Akume inaugurated the committee on Tuesday at the SGF’s Conference Room, Shehu Shagari Complex, Abuja.
Speaking at the event, the SGF described Democracy Day as a significant occasion for Nigerians to reflect on the resilience, courage and sacrifices of those who fought for the restoration and sustenance of democratic governance in the country.
He paid tribute to the heroes of the June 12, 1993 democratic struggle and the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, whose sacrifice and commitment to democracy culminated in the recognition of June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day.
Senator Akume noted that the democratic institutions and values being strengthened across the country today were built on the sacrifices of patriots and pro-democracy activists who struggled for the enthronement of democratic rule.
According to him, Democracy Day provides an opportunity not only to honour their memory but also to celebrate the nation’s democratic progress and achievements.
The SGF further stated that the celebration would afford the Federal Government the opportunity to showcase its accomplishments and reaffirm its commitment to democratic ideals, institutional development and national growth.
He explained that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would use the occasion to demonstrate progress made in consolidating democracy, strengthening institutions and implementing reforms aimed at repositioning the country despite prevailing socio-economic challenges.
With only ten days to the anniversary, Senator Akume directed committee members to begin work immediately to ensure the successful execution of all programmes lined up for the celebration.
He stressed that in line with the prevailing mood of the nation and the government’s commitment to fiscal discipline, activities marking the 27th Democracy Day would be modest but purposeful.
The SGF announced that the approved programme of events includes a World Press Conference on June 4, Special Juma’at Prayers on June 5, an Inter-denominational Church Service on June 7, a Democracy Day Public Lecture on June 9, Youth and Women-Oriented Programmes on June 10, a Presidential Broadcast on June 12, a Joint National Assembly Address by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the same day and a Democracy Day Gala Night.
Senator Akume disclosed that the committee had been divided into various sub-committees to oversee specific activities and directed all sub-committee secretaries to submit their budgets promptly to facilitate smooth implementation of the programmes.
The committee comprises key ministers, heads of security agencies, presidential aides and senior government officials, with the Secretary to the Government of the Federation serving as Chairman and the Permanent Secretary, Political and Economic Affairs Office, serving as Member/Secretary.
The SGF expressed confidence in the committee’s ability to deliver a successful and memorable celebration that would reflect Nigeria’s democratic achievements and aspirations.
He also called on all stakeholders to work collaboratively to ensure that the 27th Democracy Day Celebration serves as a fitting tribute to the nation’s democratic heroes and reinforces the country’s commitment to democratic governance.
