President Bola Tinubu delivered a Democracy Day address on June 12, 2026, celebrating 27 years of uninterrupted civilian rule in Nigeria. He emphasized the importance of democracy, security, and economic reforms.
Democracy and Unity
Tinubu noted that since May 29, 1999, Nigerians have consistently chosen leaders through the ballot, witnessed peaceful transitions, and resolved disputes in courtrooms. He urged INEC, security agencies, and political parties to ensure peaceful and credible elections in Ekiti and Osun States. He called on the National Assembly, Judiciary, Press, and Civil Society to continue defending democracy. To young Nigerians, he said, "Build here, code here, work here, and vote here."
Security Achievements
The President acknowledged the abduction of children in Oyo and Borno but expressed hope for their safe return. He highlighted a 81% reduction in terror-related deaths since 2015, with over 13,000 terrorists neutralized in the past year. Through Operation Safe Corridor, over 124,000 fighters and dependents have surrendered since 2023. He warned bandits and kidnappers to surrender or face the full force of the state. The 2026 budget allocates N5.41 trillion to defense and security, the largest ever.
Economic Reforms
Tinubu stated that reforms since 2023 have restored stability and credibility to economic management. Federation revenues have increased, providing more resources for infrastructure, education, and healthcare. Domestic refining capacity has grown, and non-oil exports rose by 21% last year. The Electricity Act grants states authority over power generation and transmission. The Rural Electrification Agency has deployed off-grid and mini-grid solutions. The National Agricultural Development Fund plans to deploy 10,000 tractors over five years.
Honoring June 12 Heroes
The President paid tribute to Chief M.K.O. Abiola, Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, and other democracy martyrs. He announced the renaming of the Institute of Petroleum Studies in Kaduna as the General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua University of Geological Sciences and Engineering Technology. He also announced national awards for several democracy activists, including Barrister Ayoka Lawani, Tunde Fagbenle, and others. The full honors list will be released soon.
Tinubu concluded by calling for unity and rejecting division. "June 12 reminds us: Nigerians do not break. We bend, we bleed, but we do not break," he said. He urged citizens to renew their covenant for a democratic and prosperous Nigeria.
