President Bola Tinubu used his Democracy Day address to urge Nigerians to defend democratic values and work together for national progress.
The Democracy Day 2026 Speech marked 27 years of uninterrupted civilian rule since 1999. It also celebrated the resilience of Nigerians and honoured heroes who fought for democracy.
According to the President, Nigeria’s democratic journey remains imperfect. However, he stressed that citizens must continue to strengthen the institutions that sustain the country.
Tinubu Calls for Peace and National Unity
Tinubu appealed to Nigerians to reject division and maintain faith in the country.
He urged the Independent National Electoral Commission, security agencies and political parties to ensure peaceful elections in Ekiti and Osun states.
The President also encouraged the National Assembly, judiciary, media and civil society groups to continue holding leaders accountable.
“Criticise me, disagree with me, but never stop believing in Nigeria,” he said.
Furthermore, Tinubu addressed young Nigerians. He encouraged them to build their future at home and contribute to national development.
He also praised members of the armed forces, the police and intelligence agencies for their sacrifices.
Security Remains a Top Priority
The President acknowledged the pain caused by insecurity. He specifically mentioned the abduction of children in Oyo and Borno states.
Nevertheless, he expressed confidence that the victims would return safely.
Tinubu revealed that his administration had declared a security emergency and approved the recruitment of more than 50,000 police officers alongside thousands of military recruits.
He added that the 2026 budget allocated N5.41 trillion to defence and security. That figure represents the largest allocation in Nigeria’s history.
According to the President, terrorist-related deaths have fallen by 81 percent since 2015.
He also disclosed that security forces neutralised more than 13,000 terrorists during the past year.
Meanwhile, over 124,000 fighters and their dependants have surrendered since 2023 through Operation Safe Corridor.
The President warned bandits and terrorists to surrender or face severe consequences.
Tinubu Highlights Economic Reforms
Tinubu said his administration introduced reforms because they were necessary for national survival.
He noted that the country inherited severe fiscal challenges in 2023.
Since then, he said, economic management has improved. He added that government revenues have increased and investor confidence has returned.
The President stated that investments have expanded across agriculture, manufacturing, mining, technology, transportation and the creative sector.
He also highlighted progress in domestic refining and energy security.
Regarding electricity, Tinubu said his administration signed the Electricity Act to empower states to generate and distribute power.
He explained that the Presidential Power Sector Task Force had received approval to raise a N4 trillion bond to settle legacy debts.
In addition, the Rural Electrification Agency has expanded mini-grid and off-grid power projects to communities, hospitals, universities and markets.
He also announced plans to deploy 10,000 tractors over five years through the National Agricultural Development Fund.
According to the President, non-oil exports increased by 21 percent last year.
Despite these gains, he admitted that many Nigerians still face economic hardship.
Therefore, he pledged to focus on job creation, food production and lower inflation.
Democracy Heroes Receive Recognition
Tinubu paid tribute to many Nigerians who fought for democratic rule.
He honoured Chief M.K.O. Abiola, Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Chief Bola Ige, Chief Alfred Rewane and several others.
The President also announced national honours for journalists, activists, political figures and democracy advocates who endured persecution during the struggle for freedom.
In addition, he recognised military officers who supported the June 12 movement.
Tinubu further announced the renaming of the Institute of Petroleum Studies in Kaduna.
The institution will now bear the name of General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua.
Democracy Must Deliver Prosperity
President Tinubu said each generation has a responsibility.
According to him, Nigeria’s founding fathers secured independence while June 12 heroes secured democracy.
He argued that the current generation must secure economic prosperity.
The President maintained that democracy should improve people’s lives.
He added that citizens must feel its impact through better opportunities, stronger communities and economic growth.
As Nigerians marked Democracy Day, Tinubu called for unity, hope and confidence.
He urged citizens to reject despair and continue building a country where justice, freedom and opportunity remain available to all.
“June 12 reminds us that Nigerians do not break. We bend, we bleed, but we do not break,” the President declared.
He concluded by asking God to bless the heroes of democracy and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Leave a comment