Senator Henry Seriake Dickson has warned that the credibility of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections will be critical to safeguarding democracy and sustaining public trust in governance.
Dickson made the remark in Abuja after receiving the Pillar of Nigeria Democracy Award at the 6th Anniversary Lecture, Dinner and Awards organised by Diplomatic Digest Magazine.
The former Bayelsa State governor urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and key stakeholders to protect the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the judiciary and security agencies, stressing that electoral integrity remains the foundation of democratic stability.
“Democracy is not a sprint; it is a marathon… there are no shortcuts on that path,” he said. “Democracy can only thrive where there is respect for the Constitution, the rule of law, an independent judiciary, a free press, and an electoral management body that enjoys the confidence of the people.”
He noted that recent political developments in West Africa, including constitutional disruptions and military takeovers, underscore the dangers of weakening democratic institutions.
Dickson also called for sustained diplomatic efforts to strengthen the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and restore cohesion within the region, particularly through engagement with the Alliance of Sahel States.
The senator dedicated the award to members of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and Nigerians who have continued to defend constitutional governance since 1999.
The event featured a keynote lecture on global diplomacy delivered by Professor Sheriff Ghali Ibrahim, who urged Nigeria to adopt a strategic approach to its relationship with China to drive industrialisation, infrastructure development and technology transfer.
Also speaking, the Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, emphasised the role of diplomacy in attracting foreign investment, expanding trade and strengthening national security.
The gathering drew top government officials, diplomats, academics and traditional rulers, reflecting growing focus on Nigeria’s democratic future and its role in regional stability.
