President Bola Ahmed Tinubu earlier today addressed a joint session of the National Assembly to mark this year’s Democracy Day, declaring his unwavering resolve to defend Nigeria’s democratic values and institutions.
Reflecting on the nation’s democratic journey since 1999, Tinubu said the day was not only symbolic of past struggles but a call to action for continued national progress. “Since 2018, we have marked June 12 as Democracy Day to honour those who paid the ultimate price,” he noted, specifically saluting the late Chief Moshood Abiola and his running mate, Babagana Kingibe, as well as the sacrifices of Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, Pa Alfred Rewane, and other pro-democracy icons.
The President also praised the National Assembly for playing a key role at critical moments in Nigeria’s democratic history. He referenced the rejection of the third-term agenda in 2006 and the invocation of the doctrine of necessity in 2010 as evidence of lawmakers’ loyalty to the constitution.
Recalling his own experience with authoritarian repression, Tinubu shared how he and other defiant lawmakers, including former Senate President Ameh Ebute, were jailed in 1993 for reconvening the dissolved parliament under General Sani Abacha’s regime.
In a strongly worded dismissal of rumours that his party, the APC, is seeking to impose a one-party system, the President stated: “I offer you a most personal promise. While your alarm may be as a result of your panic, it rings in error.” He affirmed his political history as one built on opposition and plurality, not domination.
Tinubu cited his experience in 2003 as a lone opposition governor in the South-West resisting the ruling party’s quest for total control. According to him, that same resistance laid the foundation for the formation of the APC.
While welcoming new APC members, including Governors Sheriff Oborevwori and Umo Eno, Tinubu maintained that the departure of politicians from other parties was not a ploy to stifle opposition. Instead, he said, such parties should reflect on their internal challenges.
Speaking on the economy, Tinubu said his administration’s reforms were already showing results. He noted a growth rate of 3.4% in 2024 with a Q4 peak of 4.6% — the highest in a decade. Inflation, he added, was beginning to ease, food prices were stabilising, and foreign reserves had improved significantly.
The President also highlighted the impact of the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP), noting that over 100,000 Nigerians, including civil servants, have accessed affordable credit. A new initiative set to launch in July aims to empower 400,000 youths, including corps members.
He listed broadband expansion, youth training under NELFUND, and a market-driven “Nigeria First” policy as part of efforts to boost growth and achieve food sovereignty.
Tinubu called on lawmakers to support new legislation promoting industrialisation, job creation, and agricultural development. He praised their bipartisan support for the administration’s tax reforms and looked forward to signing them into law.
As his administration enters its second half, he urged continued cooperation between the executive and legislature to build a stronger, more inclusive economy.
He concluded with a call for vigilance in defending free speech and civil liberties. “Be tolerant and broad-minded… Do not be afraid to hear an unkind word spoken against you,” he said, reaffirming his commitment to open dialogue over suppression.
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