Full text of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Democracy Day address on Friday
President Tinubu Emphasizes Nigeria’s Democratic Resilience in Democracy Day Address
In a solemn address delivered on Democracy Day, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s enduring democratic spirit and the importance of unity in governance. Speaking to the nation, he reflected on 27 years of unbroken civilian rule since May 29, 1999, emphasizing the significance of peaceful leadership transitions.
“Our democracy is not perfect, but it is ours, and we must continue to defend and strengthen it,” Tinubu stated, urging citizens to participate actively in the electoral process, especially as upcoming elections are set to take place in Ekiti and Osun states.
The President called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and political parties to ensure that the elections are both peaceful and credible, asserting that democracy falters when citizens lose faith in the electoral process.
Acknowledging the sacrifices made by security forces in maintaining peace, Tinubu reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing security measures, emphasizing the administration’s plan to recruit over 50,000 new police officers and military personnel. He cited a recent budget allocation of 5.41 trillion naira towards defense and security, the largest in Nigerian history.
Despite the day’s celebrations, Tinubu also addressed the abduction of children in Oyo and Borno states, expressing hope for their safe return and reminding citizens that “democracy without security is not solid enough.”
The President paid tribute to the heroes of Nigeria’s democratic journey, recalling the struggles of Chief M.K.O. Abiola and other notable figures who fought for the nation’s freedom. He underscored the responsibility of the current generation to fortify and deepen the democratic institutions established by their predecessors.
Tinubu discussed the administration’s ongoing economic reforms, which aim to restore stability following years of economic uncertainty. He reported improvements in federal revenues and investor confidence, alongside an increase in domestic refining capacity for energy security.
In addressing ongoing economic challenges, he acknowledged the hardship many Nigerians continue to face and reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to reducing inflation, expanding job opportunities, and elevating living standards.
He emphasized that true democracy should be felt in the quality of people’s lives and called for the revitalization of local governments to enhance grassroots governance, which he views as essential for national progress.
As a part of the commemorative address, Tinubu announced the renaming of the Institute of Petroleum Studies in Kaduna to honor General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua for his contributions to Nigeria’s democracy.
The President concluded his remarks by urging citizens to remain united in the face of challenges and to work collectively toward a more prosperous Nigeria. He affirmed that the sacrifices made by past leaders must not be forgotten and encouraged all Nigerians to uphold democratic values.
“May God bless the heroes of our democracy. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said, extending well wishes for a happy Democracy Day celebration.
