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.

Head, Information & Public Relations Department, OSGF, Chris Ugwuegbulam who issued the press release on the event said the SGF 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.

The post FG Reiterates Commitment to Working with Strategic Partners to Strengthen Democratic Governance  appeared first on Daily Dates Nigeria.

Solomon Ehigiator Arase, who passed away in Abuja, was a seasoned police officer and lawyer whose career spanned over three decades of service to Nigeria.

Born on 21 June 1956, Arase graduated with a degree in Political Science from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, in 1980 before enlisting into the Nigeria Police Force in 1981.

He later earned an LL.B from the University of Benin and an LL.M in Corporate Management and Finance Law from Lagos State University.

He also held a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the University of Ibadan and was a Fellow of the National Defence College (fdc).

A recipient of the National Police Medal (NPM), Arase was widely respected for his academic and professional credentials.

He later earned an LL.B from the University of Benin and an LL.M in Corporate Management and Finance Law from Lagos State University.

He also held a Master’s degree in Strategic Studies from the University of Ibadan and was a Fellow of the National Defence College (fdc).

A recipient of the National Police Medal (NPM), Arase was widely respected for his academic and professional credentials.

Arase was appointed the 18th Inspector-General of Police in April 2015 by then-President Goodluck Jonathan and retired in 2016.

He later chaired the Police Service Commission (PSC) from January 2023 to June 2024.

A police officer with vast experience in intelligence, operations, investigation and administration, Arase is remembered as one of the most intellectually accomplished officers to have led the Nigeria Police Force.

The post Solomon Arase, Former IGP, Lawyer Dies At 69 appeared first on Daily Dates Nigeria.

His death was confirmed on Friday.

Details surrounding his passing remain unclear at the time of filling this report.

Okupe, 72, was Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to President Olusegun Obasanjo and Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to President Goodluck Jonathan.

In December 2022, Okupe stepped down from Obi’s campaign after being convicted of money laundering.

He later resigned from the Labour Party following the 2023 general election fallout and later became a vocal supporter of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, frequently engaging in political debates and commentary.

Okupe was known for his bold political stance and unfiltered opinions. His ability to navigate Nigeria’s complex political landscape made him both a respected and controversial figure.

The post Breaking: Doyin Okupe dies at 72 appeared first on Daily Dates Nigeria.