President Bola Ahmed Tinubu delivered a powerful address to the joint session of the National Assembly today as Nigeria marked Democracy Day. The president reaffirmed his commitment to protecting Nigeria’s democracy and dismissed fears of a one-party state under his administration.
In his speech, President Tinubu reflected on Nigeria’s journey from decades of military rule to an enduring democracy since 1999. He praised former President Muhammadu Buhari for officially recognizing June 12 as Democracy Day and honouring Chief MKO Abiola and Babagana Kingibe as the rightful winners of the 1993 presidential election, a significant moment for Nigeria’s democratic history.
The president paid tribute to many democracy heroes who sacrificed their lives or faced persecution during military rule, including Kudirat Abiola, Alfred Rewane, Anthony Enahoro, Gani Fawehinmi, and others. He reminded Nigerians that the fight for democracy was a national effort, crossing ethnic and regional lines.
Tinubu called on the National Assembly to continue working together despite political differences, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and compromise in a healthy democracy. “While we may not always agree, we must forge a way to work together because this is what democracy demands of us,” he said.
Addressing rumors about the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) planning to create a one-party state, the president firmly denied any such intention. He recounted his political history as a lone progressive governor standing against attempts to eliminate opposition parties in 2003. “Nigeria will not become a one-party state now or in the future,” he declared.
President Tinubu welcomed members from other parties who recently joined the APC but encouraged political parties to focus on internal reforms rather than fear members leaving. He stressed the need for political competition to remain strong but constructive.
On the economy, Tinubu highlighted achievements under his administration, noting a 3.4% GDP growth in 2024 and a steady decline in inflation. He cited improvements in foreign reserves, currency stability, and positive balance of payments. Importantly, states no longer need to borrow to pay salaries, reflecting improved financial health.
The president announced plans to empower youth with consumer credit and support job creation through programs like NELFUND. He also mentioned an ongoing national project to expand fibre optic internet infrastructure, which will boost digital connectivity and opportunities for businesses and education.
Tinubu called on lawmakers to pass laws that promote industrial growth and food security, praising the National Assembly’s cooperation on a recent tax reform package, which he promised to sign into law soon. He said these reforms would create a more business-friendly environment and stimulate economic development.
Security remains a top priority, according to the president. He commended the Armed Forces for their bravery and said efforts to improve intelligence sharing and technology have made Nigeria’s highways safer and communities more secure.
To honour Nigeria’s democratic history, President Tinubu announced posthumous national honours for key figures such as Kudirat Abiola, Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, and Ken Saro-Wiwa, among others. He also praised living heroes, including journalists and politicians who have contributed to the country’s democratic growth.
In closing, Tinubu urged all Nigerians to rededicate themselves to the values of freedom, justice, and active citizenship. “Our democracy is alive, and the dream of a prosperous Nigeria is still within reach,” he said, wishing the nation a happy Democracy Day.
