President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerians to unite in building a prosperous nation, declaring that while the June 12 generation secured democracy, the responsibility of the present generation is to secure economic prosperity.
In his Democracy Day address on Friday, marking 27 years of uninterrupted civilian rule, President Tinubu said Nigeria's democracy has endured despite its challenges and must continue to be strengthened through credible elections, strong institutions, and active citizen participation.
The President urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and political stakeholders to ensure peaceful and credible governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states, stressing that public confidence in the electoral process remains vital to democratic stability.
Tinubu paid tribute to the heroes of the June 12 struggle, including Chief M.K.O. Abiola, Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, and several other pro-democracy activists whose sacrifices paved the way for democratic governance in Nigeria.
Addressing security concerns, the President expressed concern over the abduction of schoolchildren in Oyo and Borno states and reaffirmed his administration's commitment to combating terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping. He disclosed that over 50,000 new police officers and thousands of military recruits had been approved, while N5.41 trillion was allocated to defence and security in the 2026 budget.
According to the President, security operations have recorded significant gains, including the degradation of terrorist strongholds and a reduction in terror-related deaths. He warned terrorists, kidnappers, and criminal gangs to surrender or face the full force of the law.
On the economy, Tinubu said reforms introduced since 2023 have improved fiscal stability, increased government revenues, restored investor confidence, and expanded investments across key sectors including agriculture, energy, manufacturing, mining, transportation, technology, and the creative industry.
The President also highlighted ongoing efforts to improve electricity supply through the implementation of the Electricity Act, rural electrification projects, and measures to address legacy debts and metering challenges in the power sector.
While acknowledging the economic difficulties facing many Nigerians, Tinubu said his administration remains focused on reducing inflation, creating jobs, boosting food production, improving living standards, and ensuring that the benefits of economic growth reach every community.
He further reiterated support for local government autonomy, describing effective grassroots governance as critical to national development and security.
As part of activities marking Democracy Day, the President 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 in honour of the late statesman.
Tinubu also approved national honours for dozens of pro-democracy activists, journalists, politicians, and military officers who played significant roles in the struggle for democratic rule.
"The generation of our founding fathers secured independence. The generation of June 12 secured democracy. Our generation must secure prosperity," the President stated.
He urged Nigerians to reject division and remain committed to national unity, democracy, and development.
Tags
National News