The state of Nigeria’s economy and the security challenges associated with elections in a developing democracy will take centre stage at the seventh annual lecture organised by Freedom Online on 3 September in Lagos.
The event will examine the challenges confronting the country ahead of the 2027 general elections, with particular attention to insecurity, election-related violence and their implications for Nigeria’s political and economic development.
In a statement, the Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of Freedom Online, Gabriel Akinadewo, said the organisation chose insecurity as a central theme because of its growing impact on the country.
He described insecurity as a major threat to Nigeria’s stability, warning that election-related thuggery and other forms of violence could worsen poverty, underdevelopment and other social problems.
Akinadewo said the lecture would also consider what the future holds for Nigeria after the 2027 elections and how the electoral process could be conducted in a manner acceptable to all stakeholders.
He said the conduct of politicians, security personnel and officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission before, during and after the elections would play a significant role in determining the country’s future.
According to him, the outcome of the 2027 elections could have far-reaching consequences for Nigeria’s political, economic and social development, as well as its standing in global affairs.
The statement quoted him as asking: “What does the future hold for Nigeria after the 2027 general elections? How will the election be conducted in a way that will be acceptable to all? Will the outcome lay a solid foundation for the future of the country?”
He added that Nigeria’s political, economic and social structures were under pressure from insecurity and other challenges, making the need for credible and peaceful elections particularly important.
Sanwo-Olu, Lai Mohammed, Gbenga Daniel to Attend
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu will serve as the Special Guest Speaker at the lecture.
Former Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, will chair the event, while former Ogun State Governor, Senator Gbenga Daniel, will be the Special Guest of Honour.
The President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors and Editor of Vanguard, Eze Anaba, will serve as the Chief Host.
The lecture is expected to bring together political leaders, policymakers, security experts, media professionals and other stakeholders to examine Nigeria’s economic and security challenges and their implications for the 2027 electoral cycle.
