President on Friday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s democracy, tackling insecurity, and deepening economic reforms as the nation commemorated the 2026 Democracy Day anniversary.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!In a nationwide broadcast marking June 12, the President described democracy as the bedrock of Nigeria’s development, noting that the country has now sustained 27 consecutive years of civilian governance, the longest democratic era in its history.
Reflecting on the nation’s democratic journey, Tinubu called on Nigerians to remain vigilant in safeguarding democratic institutions and urged electoral stakeholders to ensure credible, peaceful, and transparent governorship elections in and .
Tinubu said democracy may not be perfect, but remains the collective responsibility of Nigerians to protect, strengthen and sustain.
Honouring the Heroes of June 12
Paying tribute to the icons of Nigeria’s democratic struggle, Tinubu praised the late , describing him as a symbol of sacrifice, national unity, and democratic resilience.
The President also honoured journalists, labour leaders, students, activists, professionals, and political figures who endured imprisonment, persecution, exile, and, in some cases, paid the ultimate price in the fight to restore democratic governance.
According to him, the most fitting tribute to these heroes is the collective effort to build a nation founded on justice, freedom, accountability, and equal opportunity.
Security: Government Declares Zero Tolerance for Terrorism
Addressing recent security challenges, including reported abductions in parts of the country, Tinubu assured Nigerians that the Federal Government remains unwavering in its determination to defeat terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping.
He disclosed that a security emergency has been activated, accompanied by the recruitment of more than 50,000 additional police officers and a record allocation of N5.41 trillion to defence and security in the 2026 national budget.
The President said security forces have intensified operations across troubled regions, recording notable successes against insurgent groups, including the dismantling of key terrorist infrastructure in the North-East.
While emphasizing that rehabilitation opportunities remain available through Operation Safe Corridor, Tinubu warned criminal elements and their sponsors to surrender or face decisive action from the state.
Economic Reforms Beginning to Yield Results
Defending the economic policies introduced since assuming office in 2023, the President described the reforms as difficult but necessary measures aimed at restoring economic stability and creating sustainable growth.
He noted improvements in government revenue generation, fiscal transparency, and investor confidence, adding that critical sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, mining, technology, transportation, energy, and the creative industry are showing signs of renewed growth.
Tinubu also pointed to gains in local refining capacity, increased exports, and agricultural productivity, while acknowledging the economic pressures many Nigerians continue to face.
The President said the nation is gradually moving from uncertainty to stability, with the next phase focused on accelerating growth and ensuring that economic gains are felt by citizens across the country.
Power Sector, Infrastructure Receive Fresh Boost
The President highlighted ongoing reforms in the electricity sector, driven by the implementation of the Electricity Act, which grants states greater authority to generate and distribute power independently.
He revealed that the Presidential Power Sector Task Force has been directed to tackle the country’s metering deficit and facilitate a N4 trillion bond programme to clear verified legacy debts within the industry.
Tinubu further outlined plans for expanded rural electrification, infrastructure development, agricultural mechanisation, and support for export-oriented small and medium-sized enterprises, including the deployment of 10,000 tractors over the next five years.
Renewed Push for Local Government Autonomy
Reiterating the importance of grassroots governance, the President stressed that financial autonomy for Nigeria’s 774 local government councils remains central to his administration’s development agenda.
He argued that weak local government structures have contributed significantly to insecurity and underdevelopment and pledged continued efforts to ensure that democratic dividends reach communities across the country.
National Honours for Democracy Champions
As part of the Democracy Day celebrations, Tinubu announced national honours for several pro-democracy activists, journalists, political leaders, and military officers who played significant roles in Nigeria’s democratic struggle.
He also approved the revitalisation and renaming of the Institute of Petroleum Studies in Kaduna in honour of the late , recognizing his contributions to the nation’s democratic evolution.
A Call for Unity and National Renewal
Concluding his address, the President urged Nigerians to reject division, pessimism, and despair, and instead embrace unity, patriotism, and collective purpose.
Drawing parallels between Nigeria’s historic struggles, Tinubu said while the nation’s founding fathers secured independence and the June 12 generation secured democracy, the current generation bears the responsibility of securing lasting economic prosperity.
The President maintained that the task before Nigerians today is to build a prosperous nation that future generations will inherit with pride and confidence.
He expressed optimism that despite prevailing challenges, Nigeria would continue to emerge stronger, more united, and more prosperous.
The 2026 Democracy Day celebration marks 33 years since the historic June 12, 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest poll, and 27 uninterrupted years of democratic governance.