President Bola Tinubu on Thursday used his 2026 Democracy Day address to reassure Nigerians of his administration’s commitment to security, economic recovery and democratic governance, while paying tribute to the heroes of the June 12 struggle and announcing national honours for several pro-democracy figures.
Speaking to Nigerians during the Democracy Day celebration, Tinubu reflected on the country’s 27 years of uninterrupted civilian rule, describing it as the longest period of democratic governance in Nigeria’s history. He called on citizens to continue supporting democratic institutions and urged political parties, security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission to ensure peaceful and credible elections in states scheduled to hold polls in the coming weeks.
The President appealed to young Nigerians to remain actively involved in nation-building and democratic processes. He also commended members of the armed forces, police, intelligence agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders and community stakeholders for their roles in promoting peace and stability across the country.
Tinubu acknowledged that insecurity remains a major concern, particularly following the recent abduction of schoolchildren in Oyo and Borno states. He said his administration has intensified efforts to tackle terrorism, banditry and kidnapping through increased recruitment into the police and military as well as higher budgetary allocations for security operations.
According to him, the 2026 budget provides more than N5 trillion for defence and security, the largest allocation to the sector so far. He stated that security operations have recorded gains against terrorist groups, including the destruction of key insurgent facilities and the reduction of terror-related deaths. He added that thousands of former fighters and their dependents have surrendered through government rehabilitation programmes.
The President warned criminals, kidnappers and those financing violent activities to either abandon such actions or face stronger measures from the government. He urged Nigerians not to view crime through ethnic or religious lenses, insisting that national unity remains necessary in the fight against insecurity.
On the economy, Tinubu said the reforms introduced since 2023 were necessary to stabilise public finances and restore investor confidence. He noted that government revenues have increased, while states and local governments now have more funds to execute development projects.
He also pointed to growth in investment across agriculture, manufacturing, energy, technology, mining, transportation and the creative sector. According to him, improvements in domestic refining capacity have reduced dependence on imported petroleum products and strengthened energy security.
The President said his administration has taken steps to address long-standing challenges in the power sector through reforms that allow states to participate in electricity generation, transmission and distribution. He added that efforts are ongoing to reduce the metering gap and resolve legacy debts affecting the sector.
Tinubu further outlined measures aimed at boosting agriculture, exports and infrastructure development. He disclosed that thousands of tractors are being deployed to support farming activities, while many small and medium-scale businesses have been certified for export opportunities. He added that non-oil exports recorded growth in the past year.
Despite these developments, the President admitted that many Nigerians are still facing hardship due to rising living costs. He said the government remains focused on reducing inflation, improving food production, creating jobs and ensuring that economic growth translates into better living conditions for citizens.
The President also reiterated his support for local government autonomy, arguing that effective grassroots governance is essential for development and security. He said efforts are ongoing to ensure that local councils function more independently and deliver services directly to the people.
As part of activities marking Democracy Day, Tinubu announced the renaming of the Institute of Petroleum Studies in Kaduna after the late General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua in recognition of his contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey.
He also approved national honours for dozens of journalists, activists, politicians, legal practitioners and other individuals who played roles in the struggle for democracy. Several military officers who supported democratic reforms during the June 12 era were also included on the honours list.
The President concluded by urging Nigerians to remain hopeful and united despite current challenges. He said every generation has a responsibility to advance the nation and called on citizens to work together toward building a more prosperous, peaceful and democratic Nigeria.