President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to democratic governance, pledging to uphold the ideals of June 12 and safeguard Nigeria’s democratic institutions. The President made this declaration during a historic address to a joint session of the National Assembly on Wednesday, June 12, 2025, to mark Democracy Day.
Speaking before lawmakers at the National Assembly chambers in Abuja, Tinubu reflected on the nation’s democratic journey since 1999 and the sacrifices made by countless patriots.
“Since 1999, democracy has risen from the ashes and destitution of military rule to take its rightful place as the only mode of governance of our resilient and beloved people,” he said.
He paid tribute to those who laid the foundation for Nigeria’s return to civilian rule, praising former President Muhammadu Buhari for officially designating June 12 as Democracy Day and posthumously recognising Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola and Babagana Kingibe as the winners of the annulled 1993 election.
“Let me pay tribute to former President Muhammadu Buhari for reaching back into history to rectify a national misdeed,” Tinubu noted.
The President honoured both prominent and unsung heroes of Nigeria’s pro-democracy movement, announcing the conferment of posthumous and national honours on individuals such as Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, and Ken Saro-Wiwa, among others.
In a bold and personal rebuttal of allegations suggesting an attempt to establish a one-party state, President Tinubu assured Nigerians of his commitment to pluralistic governance.
“At no time in the past, nor any instance in the present, and at no future juncture shall I view the notion of a one-party state as good for Nigeria,” he said.
“Call me names, call me whatever you will, and I will still call upon democracy to defend your right to do so.”
Drawing on his political history, Tinubu recalled his solitary stand in 2003 as the only opposition governor in the South-West and stated unequivocally that he had no intention of repeating the mistakes of political overreach.
On the economy, Tinubu highlighted reforms undertaken since assuming office, including consumer credit expansion, tax reforms, and initiatives aimed at food sovereignty and digital connectivity.
“GDP grew by 3.4 per cent in 2024, with Q4 hitting 4.6 per cent — the highest in over a decade,” he said. “Our net foreign reserves have increased fivefold, and the Naira exchange rate has stabilised.”
He announced that by July, a new initiative would empower 400,000 young Nigerians, including youth corps members, with consumer credit. Additionally, he spoke of the government’s continued investments in infrastructure, technology, and manufacturing, reaffirming a commitment to a 7% medium-term growth target.
Tinubu also recognised the National Assembly’s historical role in defending democracy, referencing its stand against the 2006 third-term agenda and invoking the courage of lawmakers during the military era.
“Even under the military, the National Assembly tried to protect our democracy,” he said, recalling how he and others defied General Abacha’s regime in 1993.
He praised the current legislature for bipartisan support on economic reform bills and urged further collaboration to improve food security and industrial growth.
On security, President Tinubu assured Nigerians that operations have intensified to reclaim communities from insurgents and criminal groups.
“Our highways are safer, and we invest in technology and training to secure every inch of this country,” he stated, while saluting the bravery and sacrifice of the Armed Forces.
He reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to building a more inclusive society and protecting civil liberties.
“Be tolerant and broad-minded in your legislative action regarding speech and civil liberties. Democracy requires a fair degree of tolerance for harsh words and stinging insults.”
To conclude his address, the President announced the conferment of honours on several living and deceased Nigerians for their roles in the democratic struggle, including Prof. Wole Soyinka, Bishop Matthew Kukah, Barrister Femi Falana, and the late Pa Alfred Rewane.
“Our nation is not perfect, but it is strong. Our democracy is not invincible, but it is alive. And this means our dream of a prosperous, happy nation is still within reach and worth fighting for,” the President said.
He called on Nigerians to recommit to the ideals of June 12 freedom, justice, and accountable governance — and prayed for the continued protection of the nation and its armed forces.
