Democracy Day Conference 2026: Obasanjo, Jonathan, Seyi Tinubu to Be Honoured as Nigeria Youths in Politics Unveils Event Lineup

Ahead of the Democracy Day Conference 2026, Nigeria Youths in Politics has announced that former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, former President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, and Barrister Seyi Tinubu will be among the distinguished personalities honoured for their contributions to democracy and youth inclusion.

The conference, themed “Now Is The Time: Youths Building a Sustainable Democracy,” is scheduled to take place on June 10, 2026. The announcement was made by Hon. Blessing Oyefeso, President of Nigeria Youths in Politics, during a press conference marking the Democracy Day celebrations.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey, Oyefeso reminded the audience that the country’s return to democratic governance on May 29, 1999 marked a turning point in the nation’s political history, as power officially transitioned from military rule to civilian leadership. “While June 12 has rightly been recognized nationally as Democracy Day in honour of the late Chief MKO Abiola and the democratic struggle surrounding the 1993 election, both moments remain historic reminders of the price of freedom, justice, and democratic governance,” he said.

He emphasised that democracy must not only be celebrated but sustained. “This is why Nigeria Youths in Politics, a youth-led organization committed to promoting youth participation in politics, leadership, and governance, is convening the Democracy Day Conference 2026,” he added.

A major highlight of the conference will be the inauguration of the Nigeria Youths in Politics National Working Committee, which has been mandated to set the agenda for youth electoral participation and to monitor the activities of electoral umpires towards ensuring violence-free, peaceful, credible, and transparent elections in 2027.

The event will also feature the conferment of the Nigeria Youths in Politics Hall of Fame Awards on selected past leaders and distinguished personalities. Former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, who is the Father of the Occasion, will be decorated as the “Custodian of Democracy and Inter-Generational Leadership.” Former President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, serving as Chairman of the Occasion, will be honoured as the “Guardian of Peace and Selfless Leadership Icon.”

Barrister Seyi Tinubu, son of the President, will be inducted as the “Champion of Youth Political Inclusion” for his contributions towards youth engagement and political participation.

Renowned Pan-Africanist, legal scholar, and public intellectual Professor Patrick Lumumba will serve as the Keynote Speaker. “His wealth of knowledge, passion for African development, and commitment to ethical leadership will undoubtedly inspire meaningful conversations on the future of democracy and youth leadership in Nigeria and across Africa,” Oyefeso said.

Other distinguished personalities to be honoured include Professor Jerry Gana, Prince Arthur Eze, and Engineer Mathew Tonlagha, Chairman of Maton Engineering Nigeria Limited. Oyefeso noted that these individuals have made remarkable contributions in leadership, nation-building, youth empowerment, enterprise, philanthropy, and have inspired young generations to greatness. “We strongly believe that honouring leaders who have contributed positively to national development will inspire younger Nigerians to embrace integrity, patriotism, visionary leadership, and selfless service,” she stated.

He called on government institutions, civil society organizations, youth groups, students, development partners, and the media to join hands in advancing democratic values and promoting constructive youth participation in governance. Addressing the media directly, he said, “We appreciate your continued role as partners in democracy and nation-building. Your voices, platforms, and reportage remain vital in shaping public discourse and amplifying the aspirations of young Nigerians.”

He concluded, “Together, let us build a democracy that is inclusive, sustainable, peaceful, and beneficial to future generations. God bless Nigeria Youths in Politics. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”