AS NIGERIA MARKS DEMOCRACY DAY HER IS PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU’S ADDRESS TO THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ON DEMOCRACY DAY – JUNE 12, 2025
It is with deep humility and great respect that I stand before this esteemed joint session of our National Assembly—a legislative body that truly represents the will, hopes, and aspirations of the Nigerian people.
As I entered this grand legislative chamber today, constructed through the sacrifices and dedication of our democratic journey, I was overwhelmed by a strong sense of achievement—mixed with the sobering awareness of the responsibilities that lie ahead.
Reflecting on our journey since 1999, one cannot help but feel pride in how far Nigeria has progressed. From the ruins and suppression of military dictatorship, democracy has emerged as the sole legitimate foundation for our governance. This rebirth has been driven by the enduring spirit of our people and their belief in a better future.
Yet, every step through these corridors reminds me that our mission is not yet complete. The path ahead demands greater determination, unity, and service.
I chose to lead this country with a firm commitment to advancing and safeguarding our democracy. Today, I reaffirm before God and this assembly my dedication to that sacred task. Our goal is to secure the democratic legacy we’ve inherited and guide it toward fulfillment.
Since 2018, Nigeria has rightly commemorated June 12 as Democracy Day. This date was chosen to honour the valiant men and women who resisted autocracy and fought tirelessly to restore civil rule in our country.
I must pay homage to former President Muhammadu Buhari for correcting a historic injustice—by formally recognizing June 12 as our Democracy Day, and by acknowledging Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola and Babagana Kingibe as the rightful winners of the 1993 presidential election.
Every election cycle, every policy debate, every parliamentary disagreement—all serve to strengthen our democratic institutions. Each civil exchange deepens our collective commitment to liberty, justice, and equality.
Although Chief MKO Abiola remains the foremost symbol of June 12, we must remember the many other patriots who contributed to the democratic struggle. We honour the memory of Alhaja Kudirat Abiola and Pa Alfred Rewane, both assassinated for their activism. We remember journalists, politicians, and civil society leaders who faced detention, exile, or death for speaking truth to power.
We must also recognize heroes like Chief Anthony Enahoro, Commodore Dan Suleiman, Chief Abraham Adesanya, Ayo Adebanjo, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Balarabe Musa, Ganiyu Dawodu, journalist Bagauda Kaltho, and Commodore Ndubuisi Kanu. While these names are representative, they reflect a nationwide effort that transcended ethnic, regional, and religious divides.
This struggle was—and remains—a national undertaking. It is not owned by any one group but belongs to every Nigerian who yearns for justice and freedom.
It is appropriate that I deliver this address in this hallowed chamber. You, members of the National Assembly, are the architects of our laws, and I, as President, am charged with implementing them. While we may not always share the same opinions, democracy demands that we collaborate. I stand ready to work with you in the spirit of national service, and I urge you to do the same.
Our parliament has played a crucial role in protecting our democracy during critical moments. In 2006, it defended the constitution against a proposed third-term bid. In 2010, it invoked the doctrine of necessity to ensure a seamless leadership transition during President Yar’Adua’s illness.
Even under military regimes, some members of the National Assembly resisted oppression. After General Abacha’s coup in 1993, a brave few, led by Senator Ameh Ebute, reconvened in defiance, risking arrest and imprisonment.
On behalf of the Nigerian people, I commend you for your legislative work, your oversight responsibilities, and your service to your constituencies.
Now, allow me to address a rumour making the rounds.
There are those who claim the APC is plotting to turn Nigeria into a one-party state. Let me make this unequivocally clear: that idea has never crossed my mind, nor will it ever. I have never interfered with INEC’s registration processes or sought to undermine other political parties. No party should blame others for its internal turmoil. A crumbling house must first look within before accusing outsiders.
My record speaks for itself. In 2003, when the ruling party attempted to erase the opposition, I stood my ground as the last progressive governor in my region. They had the machinery of power, yet I prevailed because the will of the people cannot be suppressed, and our national destiny is guided by a higher force.
That attempt to dominate the political landscape birthed the opposition movement that eventually coalesced into the APC. It is the very path that brought me here today. I will not repeat the mistakes of the past or seek to weaken our democracy by stifling political competition.
To be clear, we welcome new members to our party—including those from Delta and Akwa Ibom States, led by Governors Sheriff Oborevwori and Pastor Umo Eno. Welcoming new allies does not equate to suppressing opposition. Those who fear the departure of their members should examine their internal affairs and make corrections accordingly.
Nigeria’s democratic health depends on a diversity of parties and viewpoints. The goal is not to eliminate competition but to ensure it benefits national development. We must prioritize cooperation over conflict, especially when it comes to issues of economic and social advancement.
Upon assuming office, my administration implemented foundational reforms to address the long-standing structural challenges in our economy. These efforts are already yielding measurable results.
In 2024, GDP grew by 3.4 percent, and in the final quarter alone, we saw a remarkable 4.6 percent growth—our highest in over ten years. Inflation is slowly coming down, food prices are stabilizing, our foreign reserves have multiplied fivefold, and the Naira has regained stability. Our balance of payments has improved, and our global credit rating is on the rise. Importantly, states can now meet salary obligations without borrowing.
In less than one year, over 100,000 Nigerians—including 35,000 civil servants—have accessed affordable consumer credit via CREDICORP. This has allowed them to purchase vehicles, furnish their homes, and improve their quality of life. In July, we will expand this initiative to reach 400,000 more Nigerians, including serving NYSC members.
Through programs like NELFUND, we are investing in education, vocational skills, internships, and apprenticeships—ensuring our youth are equipped for both today’s jobs and the challenges of tomorrow.
We’ve also launched an ambitious nationwide fibre optic project to bridge the digital divide. This will transform communication, commerce, education, and innovation—ensuring Nigerian youth can compete globally.
Our “Nigeria First” policy reinforces our commitment to building a resilient, self-sustaining economy. Our medium-term goal is 7 percent annual growth and robust local production, particularly in agriculture and manufacturing. Food sovereignty is now within reach.
These reforms provide a stable environment for strategic investments and industrial development. I call on you, our lawmakers, to craft forward-thinking legislation that supports urban job creation and strengthens rural food security.
I also appreciate your bipartisan support on our comprehensive Tax Reform Package, a cornerstone of our economic agenda. Your dedication has been admirable, and I look forward to signing the new tax bills into law soon.
Together, we must broaden access to democratic participation. Let us choose dialogue over coercion, persuasion over repression, and protect civil liberties. Do not fear criticism. Sometimes, the harshest critiques offer the greatest insight.
Free speech is essential to democracy. Even when I am the subject of scathing remarks or misinformation, I will continue to defend the right of every Nigerian to express themselves. Democracy is not weakened by insults—it is strengthened by tolerance.
Yes, Nigeria is not without flaws. But our democracy is alive, and our dream of a united, prosperous nation remains within reach.
At this crucial juncture, our country is undergoing a transformation to secure a better future. Our administration is investing in infrastructure—roads, ports, rail, and power—to drive industrial growth. We are simplifying taxes and creating a more enabling environment for entrepreneurs.
We’ve granted tax exemptions to small businesses and launched the Office of the Tax Ombudsman to ensure transparency. Our digital tracking systems have improved accountability, while initiatives like the Diaspora Bond and the Non-Resident BVN program have reconnected Nigerians abroad with national development efforts.
Following my New Year commitment, I’ve inaugurated the board of the National Credit Guarantee Company with N100 billion in capital. Backed by strong institutions like BOI, NSIA, MOFI, and CreditCorp, this company will strengthen SME development and combat corruption.
On security, we’ve escalated operations to reclaim territory from insurgents and criminals. Intelligence sharing and inter-agency coordination have improved. Our roads are safer, and we continue to invest in modern security tools.
Let us honour our military for their courage. Their service defends our freedoms, and they deserve our unending gratitude, support, and respect.
Fellow citizens, our progress has been collective. But we must not relent. It is time to translate macroeconomic success into everyday relief for ordinary Nigerians. Let’s remain hopeful and united.
As we mark 26 years of uninterrupted democracy, it is fitting to honour those who gave their lives and voices to the cause.
Today, I bestow posthumous national honours on several heroes, beginning with the late Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, who will be awarded the title of CFR. Others include Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, Prof. Humphrey Nwosu, Ndubuisi Kanu, Balarabe Musa, and a host of others, for their sacrifices in the democratic struggle.
Living heroes like Prof. Wole Soyinka, Prof. Olatunji Dare, Kunle Ajibade, Dapo Olorunyomi, and Bishop Matthew Kukah will also receive national recognition.
Furthermore, I confer the honour of CON on veteran journalist Uncle Sam Amuka Pemu as he celebrates his 90th birthday.
In addition, I posthumously honour the late Ken Saro Wiwa and the Ogoni Nine, granting them full presidential pardons alongside others whose names will be announced in consultation with the National Council of State.
Finally, I am pleased to formally decorate the current leadership of the National Assembly with the national honours they were awarded last year:
* Senator Godswill Akpabio, GCON – Senate President
* Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, GCON – Speaker of the House
* Senator Barau Jibrin, CFR – Deputy Senate President
* Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, CFR – Deputy Speaker
Let us recommit ourselves to the values of June 12—freedom, justice, accountability, and equal opportunity. Let us renew our faith in the idea of Nigeria and in the promise of democracy.
Happy Democracy Day.
May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria and protect our brave men and women in uniform.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
Commander-in-Chief, Federal Republic of Nigeria