President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has delivered a national broadcast to mark the 2026 Democracy Day, reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey, ongoing reforms, security challenges, and the sacrifices of those who fought for the country’s return to civilian rule.
In the early morning address on Friday, June 12, the President emphasized national unity, institutional responsibility, and the need to deepen democratic values across all levels of governance.
He began by noting that Nigeria has now enjoyed 27 uninterrupted years of civilian rule since 1999, describing it as the longest period of democratic governance in the nation’s history. While acknowledging that democracy is still a work in progress, he said it remains a system Nigerians must continue to protect and strengthen.
Ahead of upcoming governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun States, he urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, political parties, and citizens to ensure peaceful and credible polls, warning that democracy weakens when people lose trust in the electoral process.
Addressing key national institutions, Tinubu described the National Assembly, judiciary, media, and civil society as “guardrails of the republic,” encouraging constructive criticism while calling for continued belief in the country’s democratic future. He also urged young Nigerians to remain committed to building the nation, saying progress depends on those who choose to stay and solve problems.
The President paid tribute to the military, police, intelligence agencies, traditional rulers, and religious leaders for their roles in maintaining peace and supporting governance. He also honoured democracy activists, journalists, labour leaders, students, and political figures—both living and deceased—who contributed to Nigeria’s democratic struggle.
On security, Tinubu expressed concern over recent kidnappings, including incidents in Oyo and Borno States, assuring Nigerians that efforts were ongoing to secure the release of abducted victims. He said the government had declared a security emergency, approved recruitment of over 50,000 police officers, and significantly increased defence spending.
He highlighted military operations against insurgents and bandits, claiming notable progress in degrading terrorist networks and encouraging continued surrender through rehabilitation programmes such as Operation Safe Corridor. He warned criminal groups to surrender or face decisive government action, stressing the need for national unity in tackling insecurity.
Turning to governance and development, the President described June 12 as a symbol of Nigeria’s democratic struggle, referencing late Chief M.K.O. Abiola and other heroes who fought for the restoration of democracy. He said their sacrifices must inspire efforts to strengthen institutions, promote justice, and improve citizens’ quality of life.
Tinubu also connected democracy to economic well-being, stating that political freedom must translate into improved living standards, job creation, and expanded opportunities for Nigerians. He noted that ongoing economic reforms have helped stabilise public finances, increased government revenue for states and local councils, and boosted investor confidence across key sectors.
On the power sector, he acknowledged long-standing challenges but highlighted reforms under the Electricity Act, decentralisation of electricity regulation, and efforts to improve metering and expand rural electrification. He added that infrastructure and agricultural initiatives are ongoing to improve productivity and create jobs, while stressing the need to reduce inflation and strengthen food security.
The President further stated that local government autonomy remains central to improving governance at the grassroots level, arguing that effective local administration is key to addressing insecurity and delivering development.
He concluded by calling on Nigerians to reject division and embrace unity, saying each generation has a duty to build on the sacrifices of the past. While independence secured freedom and June 12 secured democracy, he said the current generation must focus on achieving national prosperity.
Tinubu also announced the renaming of the Institute of Petroleum Studies in Kaduna after General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, in recognition of his contributions to democracy. He further disclosed a list of national honours for individuals who played various roles in the June 12 struggle, including activists, journalists, legal practitioners, and military officers.
He ended the broadcast with a message of hope, urging Nigerians to remain resilient and committed to democratic values, and wishing the nation a happy Democracy Day.
