The Nigerian Government says the country’s 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance remain a major achievement and a testament to the resilience of the nation’s democratic institutions and the commitment of citizens to democratic ideals.
Speaking at a press conference to mark the 2026 Democracy Day celebration and the third anniversary of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the occasion provided an opportunity to reflect on the country’s democratic journey and chart a course for the future.
Addressing journalists at the Rotunda Hall of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja, Idris described Democracy Day as a significant event in Nigeria’s history.
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“Democracy Day occupies a unique place in our national calendar. It provides an opportunity for us to reflect on our democratic journey, celebrate the resilience of our institutions, and honour the sacrifices of patriots who stood firm in the struggle for democratic governance,” he said.
The Minister paid glowing tribute to the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (M.K.O.) Abiola, widely regarded as the symbol of Nigeria’s democratic struggle, as well as other pro-democracy activists who fought for the restoration of civilian rule.
“As we gather today, we pay tribute to the memory and enduring legacy of Bashorun M.K.O. Abiola, whose commitment to democratic ideals remains an inspiration to generations of Nigerians,” Idris stated.
He also acknowledged the role played by President Bola Tinubu and other democracy advocates in the struggle that culminated in the return to democratic governance in 1999.
The Minister noted that Nigeria’s uninterrupted democratic experience over the past 27 years demonstrates the determination of citizens to sustain democratic governance despite numerous challenges.
“Twenty-seven years of uninterrupted democratic governance is a milestone worthy of celebration. It is a testament to the determination of Nigerians to uphold democratic values, strengthen national institutions, and continuously strive for a more prosperous and united nation,” he said.
According to Idris, this year’s Democracy Day celebration is particularly significant because it coincides with the third anniversary of the Tinubu administration.
“ It offers an opportunity to take stock of our progress as a nation, review the impact of ongoing reforms, and reaffirm our collective commitment to building a stronger and more inclusive Nigeria,” he said.
The minister explained that the press conference was organised to present an overview of the administration’s performance, including achievements recorded, challenges encountered and plans for the future.
Strengthen National Development
He expressed optimism that ongoing reforms under the administration would continue to strengthen national development and improve the lives of Nigerians.
Highlighting achievements in the water sector, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Utsev, said the ministry had expanded access to potable water through the construction and rehabilitation of water supply schemes across the country.
According to him, interventions under the PEWASH, SURWASH and African Development Bank-supported programmes have benefited more than 451,000 Nigerians, while the Greater Dutse Water Supply Project in Jigawa State is expected to serve over 1.5 million people.
The minister also highlighted progress in dam development and hydropower generation, citing the commissioning of several dams and hydropower projects.
“We have commissioned the 40-megawatt Kashimbila Hydropower Plant, which is already contributing electricity to the national grid. Combined hydropower generation from Kashimbila, Gurara and Dadin Kowa projects is supplying approximately 110 megawatts of clean energy,” he said.
On his part, the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, outlined efforts by the Nigerian Government to modernise livestock production and address challenges associated with open grazing.
Maiha disclosed that the ministry had commenced development activities at designated grazing reserves within the Federal Capital Territory as part of plans to support pastoralists and improve livestock productivity.
“As I speak today, we have sunk three boreholes and installed a weather station at Ka’u Grazing Reserve. We are beginning the demarcation process for the resettlement of pastoralists,” he said.
The Live stock Minister explained that the movement of pastoralists across the country was largely driven by the search for water and pasture.
“The reason pastoralists move from the North to the South is not cultural; it is a survival mechanism. These animals need water and fodder to survive. Our objective is to create conditions where they can remain in designated locations with adequate resources,” Maiha explained.
Sustainable Livestock Management
He also announced plans by the Nigerian Government to launch a National Ranching Policy aimed at promoting sustainable livestock management and reducing conflicts associated with open grazing.
“We believe ranching is the best way to improve productivity in the livestock sector, create jobs and promote peace and harmony in rural communities,” he said.
Maiha emphasised that livestock ownership remains largely in private hands, noting that government intervention is focused on creating an enabling environment for growth.
“About 95 per cent of Nigeria’s livestock resources are owned by private individuals and businesses. The Federal Government does not intend to take over these assets; our role is to support the sector’s growth and development,” he stated.
The Democracy Day press conference formed part of activities commemorating Nigeria’s democratic journey and provided a platform for ministers to present progress reports on key sectors of the economy under the Tinubu administration.
