Politics
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Nigerians to remain committed to the country and never lose faith in Nigeria, stressing that the nation’s democracy must continue to be strengthened through collective effort.
Addressing the nation to mark the Democracy Day, June 12, on Friday, President Tinubu he described the National Assembly, judiciary, press and civil society organisations as the guardrails of Nigeria’s democracy.
Tinubu acknowledged that the country’s democracy is not perfect, but insisted that it belongs to Nigerians and must be protected. He said that every great nation was built by those who remained committed to solve problems rather than those who abandon the country.
Addressing Nigerian youths, President Tinubu stated that Nigeria remains their home and future, encouraging them to build their aspirations within the country.
He expressed appreciation to members of the armed forces and intelligence services for their sacrifices in protecting the nation, while also thanking traditional rulers, religious leaders and community heads for their contributions to peace and reconciliation efforts.
According to Tinubu, June 12 remains a day to honour the resilience of Nigerians who refused to surrender their belief in freedom and the courage of citizens who stood firm against intimidation.
He also paid tribute to patriots. who endured persecution, imprisonment and exile, noting that their sacrifices helped future generations to enjoy democracy.
The President commended labour leaders, journalists, activists, women, students and political leaders for their contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey.
He noted, however, that this year’s Democracy Day celebration came amid concerns over insecurity, particularly the abductions in Oyo and Borno states and expressed hope that those kidnapped would return safely to their families.
Tinubu stated that democracy cannot thrive without security, adding that his administration is pursuing both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to restore peace across the country.
He disclosed that approval had been given for the recruitment of 50,000 additional police officers, while the 2026 budget allocated N5.41 trillion to defence and security.
The President dusclosed that terrorism-related incidents has reduced by 81 per cent since 2015 and that more than 13,000 terrorists had been neutralised within the last year.
He also highlighted the role of Operation Safe Corridor in rehabilitating former insurgents, saying that every life transformed from an enemy into a citizen represents a victory for democracy.
Tinubu warned the bandits and criminal elements to surrender or face the full force of the Nigerian state, adding that the opportunity for surrender would not remain open indefinitely.
He called on Nigerians to remain united and assured that with continued cooperation, the insecurity in the nation will soon become a thing of the past.
W.U
June 12, 2026
Tags: President Bola Tinubu