President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerians to remain united and committed to strengthening democracy, saying the country's next major task is to achieve economic prosperity for all citizens.
Speaking during his Democracy Day address on June 12, 2026, Tinubu celebrated Nigeria's 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule, describing it as the longest period of civilian governance in the nation's history. According to him, democracy has allowed Nigerians to choose their leaders through elections and settle disagreements through legal and democratic institutions rather than violence.
The President urged electoral stakeholders, security agencies, political parties, the judiciary, the media, and civil society groups to protect the integrity of democracy and ensure that upcoming elections are peaceful and credible.
Addressing Nigerian youths, Tinubu encouraged them to build their future within the country. He said Nigeria belongs to them and urged them to work, innovate, vote, and contribute to solving the nation's challenges instead of giving up on the country.
Tinubu Speaks on Insecurity
Tinubu admitted that the nation is currently saddened by the kidnapping of schoolchildren in Oyo and Borno states but expressed confidence that the victims would return safely.
According to him, democracy cannot thrive without security. He revealed that his administration has declared a security emergency, recruited more than 50,000 police officers and thousands of military personnel, and allocated N5.41 trillion to defence and security in the 2026 budget.
The President stated that terrorist attacks have reduced significantly, claiming that terror-related deaths have dropped by 81 percent since 2015. He added that security forces have neutralised more than 13,000 terrorists in the past year while over 124,000 former fighters and their dependents have surrendered through government rehabilitation programmes.
He warned kidnappers, bandits, and sponsors of terrorism to surrender or face severe consequences from the government.
Honouring June 12 Heroes
Tinubu used the occasion to honour Nigerians who fought for democracy, paying tribute to Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola and Kudirat Abiola, whose sacrifices became symbols of the June 12 struggle.
He also remembered other notable pro-democracy figures, including Gani Fawehinmi, Bola Ige, Anthony Enahoro and many others who contributed to Nigeria's democratic journey.
The President announced that dozens of activists, journalists, politicians, and military officers involved in the June 12 struggle would receive national honours in recognition of their sacrifices.
Tinubu Defends Economic Reforms
Speaking on the economy, Tinubu said his administration inherited serious financial challenges when it assumed office in 2023. He explained that the reforms introduced by his government were necessary to stabilise the economy and secure Nigeria's future.
According to him, government revenues have increased, fiscal transparency has improved, and investor confidence has returned across key sectors such as agriculture, energy, manufacturing, technology, mining, transportation, and the creative industry.
The President also highlighted improvements in local petroleum refining and said the country is becoming less dependent on imported fuel products.
Plans for Power, Agriculture and Growth
Tinubu said his administration is addressing long-standing challenges in the electricity sector through the Electricity Act, which gives states greater powers to generate, transmit, and distribute electricity.
He noted that efforts are underway to reduce the country's metering deficit and improve electricity access through rural and off-grid projects.
The President further disclosed that the National Agricultural Development Fund will deploy 10,000 tractors over the next five years to boost food production, while more than 1,000 small businesses have been certified for export. He added that non-oil exports grew by 21 percent in the past year.
“Democracy Must Be Felt in the Pocket”
Despite highlighting progress, Tinubu acknowledged that many Nigerians are still struggling with the high cost of living and economic hardship.
He said his administration remains focused on reducing inflation, creating jobs, increasing food production, and improving living standards. According to him, the benefits of democracy should not only be seen in elections and governance but also in the daily lives of citizens.
The President stressed that “democracy must be felt in the pocket,” adding that the next phase of his administration would focus on accelerating economic growth and ensuring that its benefits reach every household, community, and region across the country.
Tinubu concluded by urging Nigerians to reject division and despair, embrace unity and hope, and work together toward building a more prosperous, secure, and democratic nation. He said while previous generations secured independence and democracy, the current generation must secure prosperity for future Nigerians.
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