Tinubu Urges Unity, Defends Reforms in Democracy Day Address

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday marked Nigeria’s Democracy Day with a call for national unity, resilience, and sustained commitment to democratic values, while defending his administration’s economic reforms and intensified security efforts amid ongoing challenges.

In a nationwide broadcast commemorating 27 years of uninterrupted civilian rule, Tinubu said Nigeria’s democracy, though imperfect, remains a collective achievement that must be protected and strengthened. He noted that since 1999, Nigerians have consistently chosen leaders through the ballot and resolved disputes through legal and institutional frameworks rather than violence.

“Our democracy is not perfect, but it is ours,” the President declared, urging citizens and institutions to remain steadfast in safeguarding it.

Looking ahead to upcoming governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states, Tinubu charged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and political actors to ensure credible and peaceful polls. He warned that public trust in democracy depends heavily on electoral integrity.

Addressing key democratic institutions, Tinubu described the National Assembly, judiciary, media, and civil society as the “guardrails of the republic,” encouraging constructive criticism while reaffirming faith in the nation.

The President made a direct appeal to young Nigerians, urging them to invest their future in the country rather than seek opportunities abroad. “Build here, code here, work here, and vote here,” he said, stressing that nation-building requires the commitment of its citizens.

On security, Tinubu acknowledged the pain caused by recent kidnappings, particularly in Oyo and Borno states, but assured Nigerians that his administration is intensifying efforts to combat insecurity. He disclosed that over 50,000 police officers and thousands of military personnel are being recruited as part of a broader security emergency response.

He further revealed that the 2026 budget allocates a record N5.41 trillion to defence and security, underscoring the government’s determination to protect lives and property.

Highlighting progress in counterterrorism, Tinubu said Nigerian forces have shifted to precision operations, including the dismantling of an ISWAP command centre in Borno State. According to him, terror-related deaths have declined significantly since 2015, while over 13,000 terrorists were neutralised in the past year.

The President also pointed to the success of the government’s deradicalisation programme, Operation Safe Corridor, which has seen more than 124,000 fighters and their families surrender since 2023. However, he issued a stern warning to criminal elements, stating that the window for surrender would not remain open indefinitely.

“Those who trade in the blood of Nigerians will face the full force of the state,” he said.

Reflecting on the significance of June 12, Tinubu paid tribute to pro-democracy icons, including Chief M.K.O. Abiola and Kudirat Abiola, as well as other activists and leaders who fought for Nigeria’s democratic freedoms. He described the 1993 election as a defining moment that demonstrated the possibility of national unity beyond ethnic and religious divides.

The President emphasised that while past struggles secured political freedom, the current generation must focus on achieving economic prosperity. He defended his administration’s economic reforms, describing them as necessary measures to stabilise public finances and restore investor confidence.

Tinubu said government revenues have improved since 2023, enabling increased funding for infrastructure, healthcare, education, and security. He added that fiscal transparency has been strengthened and leakages reduced.

On economic performance, the President noted growth in key sectors such as agriculture, energy, manufacturing, technology, and the creative industry. He also highlighted a 21 percent increase in non-oil exports and expanded domestic refining capacity aimed at reducing dependence on imported petroleum products.

Addressing Nigeria’s longstanding power sector challenges, Tinubu pointed to the Electricity Act, which decentralises electricity generation and distribution, allowing states to play a more active role. He said efforts are underway to reduce the metering gap and settle legacy debts through a planned N4 trillion bond.

He added that rural electrification initiatives, supported by international partners, are delivering off-grid power solutions to underserved communities, markets, and institutions.

Despite these efforts, Tinubu acknowledged that many Nigerians continue to face economic hardship. He assured citizens that his administration remains focused on reducing inflation, boosting food production, creating jobs, and improving living standards.

“We are moving from uncertainty to stability. The next phase is about accelerating growth and ensuring benefits are felt in every home,” he said.

The President also highlighted moves to grant financial autonomy to Nigeria’s 774 local government councils, arguing that weak grassroots governance has contributed to insecurity and underdevelopment.

As part of Democracy Day announcements, Tinubu approved the renaming of the Institute of Petroleum Studies in Kaduna after the late General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, in recognition of his contributions to national unity and democratic development.

He also announced a list of pro-democracy activists, journalists, and political figures to receive national honours for their roles in the struggle for democracy. The full honours list is expected to be released in the coming days.

Concluding his address, Tinubu called on Nigerians to reject division and embrace unity, expressing confidence in the nation’s resilience.

“The road ahead is steep, but Nigerians do not break,” he said. “We bend, we bleed, but we do not break.”

He urged citizens to renew their commitment to democratic ideals and national progress, pledging continued efforts to build a just, prosperous, and inclusive Nigeria.

“May the labours of our heroes past never be in vain,” the President added.