Federal Government of Nigeria took a significant step in aligning political stability with fiscal health. On Thursday, April 9, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) George Akume officially reaffirmed the government’s stance that a healthy democracy is the primary driver of sustainable economic growth.
​The announcement came during the National Convening and Report Launch for “The Democracy Dividend: Governance and Growth,” an initiative supported by the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation.
​Akume, represented by Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar
Kana, outlined several critical areas where democratic health directly impacts the economy:
Strengthening the National Assembly’s ability to monitor executive spending and policy implementation to ensure funds are used for their intended development purposes.
Reducing systemic barriers within MDAs (Ministries, Departments, and Agencies) to foster an environment where private investors feel secure. Establishing that political stability through fair elections reduces the “risk premium” for foreign direct investment.
Ensuring a trusted judicial and mediation framework to resolve economic and political conflicts without disrupting national productivity.
This commitment is part of a larger 2026 fiscal strategy. Earlier this year, the government presented the 2026 “Budget of Consolidation,” which aims to shift the nation from economic stabilization to active growth.
​This commitment is part of a larger 2026 fiscal strategy. Earlier this year, the government presented the 2026 “Budget of Consolidation,” which aims to shift the nation from economic stabilization to active growth.
The SGF emphasized that democracy should not just be about “freedom” in the abstract, but about delivering tangible benefits—or “dividends” to the average citizen. By focusing on the link between governance and growth, the administration is signaling to both development partners (like the FCDO) and the private sector that Nigeria is prioritizing a transparent, rule-based environment to drive its recovery.
As former President Goodluck Jonathan noted at the same event, for democracy to thrive and fuel the economy, the principles of justice and freedom must be non-negotiable.
