The senior special assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (SSAP-SDGs), Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, has attributed Nigeria’s progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to Nigeria’s uninterrupted democratic governance since 1999, describing democracy as the foundation upon which sustainable development thrives.
Orelope-Adefulire made the assertion in a statement issued on Friday by her special assistant on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communications, Desmond Utomwen, as Nigerians commemorated the 2026 Democracy Day.
The presidential aide described the nation’s 27 years of uninterrupted civil rule as a major milestone in its democratic evolution, noting that the stability provided by democratic governance has enabled the country to pursue critical development objectives and implement policies aimed at improving the lives of citizens.
According to her, democracy has created the enabling environment required to advance key national priorities, including poverty reduction, quality education, healthcare delivery, gender equality, economic growth and infrastructure development.
She stressed that democracy and sustainable development are mutually reinforcing, emphasizing that inclusive governance, transparency, accountability, citizen participation and adherence to the rule of law remain indispensable to the successful implementation of the SDGs.
Orelope-Adefulire noted that the achievements recorded across various sectors of the economy over the years have been made possible by the continuity, stability and institutional strength provided by democratic rule.
“Democracy provides the platform upon which sustainable development thrives. The Sustainable Development Goals can only be effectively achieved in an atmosphere where citizens participate in governance, institutions are strengthened, and development policies are implemented with continuity and accountability,” she stated.
She congratulated President Bola Tinubu, former leaders, democratic institutions and Nigerians on the occasion of Democracy Day, applauding citizens for their resilience and steadfast commitment to safeguarding democracy since Nigeria’s return to civilian rule in 1999.
The SSAP-SDGs further observed that the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu administration aligns closely with the objectives of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development through targeted interventions aimed at improving livelihoods, expanding social protection, strengthening infrastructure, enhancing food security and creating opportunities for women and young people.
She said the administration’s development priorities demonstrate a commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable national development, both of which are central to the attainment of the SDGs.
Orelope-Adefulire called on Nigerians to continue supporting democratic institutions, embrace peaceful dialogue and play active roles in nation-building, stressing that achieving the SDGs requires the collective efforts of all stakeholders.
She noted that governments, the private sector, civil society organisations, development partners and citizens all have critical roles to play in ensuring that the goals are achieved within the stipulated timeframe.
The presidential aide also reaffirmed the commitment of the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (OSSAP-SDGs) to accelerating the implementation of the SDGs nationwide and ensuring that the dividends of democracy translate into meaningful and measurable improvements in the lives of Nigerians.
She pledged that the office would continue to work with stakeholders across the public and private sectors to drive programmes and interventions that support sustainable development and improve socio-economic outcomes across the country.
Expressing optimism about Nigeria’s future, Orelope-Adefulire said sustained democratic stability, responsible leadership and active citizen participation would continue to position the country on the path of sustainable growth and development.
She added that with stronger institutions, accountable governance and the collective commitment of Nigerians, the country would make significant progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and building a more prosperous, inclusive and sustainable future for all.
