President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to remain committed to democracy, national unity and the collective task of building a stronger nation, as the country marks Democracy Day.
In a statement issued on Thursday to commemorate June 12, the President reflected on Nigeria’s democratic journey, describing the country’s 27 years of uninterrupted civilian rule as a significant achievement that must be protected and strengthened.
“Today, we celebrate democracy and the enduring Nigerian spirit,” Tinubu said.
According to him, since the return to democratic rule in 1999, Nigerians have consistently chosen their leaders through elections, witnessed peaceful transfers of power and resolved political disagreements through democratic institutions rather than violence.
“Our democracy is not perfect, but it is ours, and we must continue to defend and strengthen it,” he stated.
The President also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and political parties to ensure peaceful and credible elections in Ekiti and Osun states, warning that public confidence in the electoral process remains critical to the survival of democracy.
“Democracy fails when citizens doubt the process,” he said.
Addressing young Nigerians, Tinubu encouraged them to play active roles in nation-building rather than losing faith in the country’s future.
“Nigeria is your home and your future. Build here, code here, work here, and vote here,” the President said.
On security, Tinubu acknowledged growing concerns following recent kidnappings and attacks across the country, including the abduction of schoolchildren in Oyo and Borno states.
He said his administration had responded by declaring a security emergency, approving the recruitment of more than 50,000 police officers and increasing investments in the armed forces.
“Our 2026 budget commits N5.41 trillion—our largest ever—to defence and security,” he said.
The President also highlighted recent military gains against terrorist groups, stating that security forces had intensified operations against insurgents and criminal networks.
According to him, terror-related deaths have declined significantly compared to previous years, while thousands of terrorists have been neutralised and many others have surrendered through government rehabilitation programmes.
Tinubu, however, warned bandits, kidnappers and sponsors of terrorism that the government would continue to pursue them relentlessly.
“To bandits, kidnappers, and sponsors of terror: Surrender or face the full force of the Nigerian State,” he declared.
The President also used the occasion to honour individuals who played key roles in Nigeria’s democratic struggle, particularly the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, widely regarded as the winner of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election.
He paid tribute to other democracy activists and pro-democracy figures who endured imprisonment, persecution, exile and, in some cases, paid the ultimate price in the fight for democratic governance.
“June 12 occupies a sacred place in our national memory. It represents more than an election; it is a defining chapter in our story,” Tinubu said.
The President noted that while the heroes of June 12 helped secure political freedom, the current generation must focus on achieving economic freedom through job creation, improved living standards and expanded opportunities for citizens.
“The greatest tribute we can pay is to build a Nigeria where freedom is protected, justice is upheld, opportunity is expanded, and government is accountable,” he added.
Tinubu concluded by expressing confidence that Nigeria would overcome its current security and economic challenges, urging citizens to remain united in the face of adversity.
“Crime has no ethnicity. We must stand united and be assured that the enemies of our nation shall soon be history,” he said.