DEMOCRACY DAY: Tinubu Reaffirms Commitment to Democratic Ideals, Economic Reforms in Historic Address to NASS
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to deepening democracy and strengthening Nigeria’s economic foundations, as he delivered a stirring address before a joint session of the National Assembly to mark Democracy Day 2025.
In a speech laced with historical reflection, personal conviction, and policy direction, the President paid homage to the heroes of Nigeria’s democracy while outlining major milestones achieved under his stewardship since assuming office. He called for unity across political divides and pledged to continue governing with transparency, inclusion, and tolerance.
“Since 1999, democracy has risen from the ashes and destitution of military rule to take its rightful place as the only mode of governance of our resilient and beloved people,” Tinubu stated. “But we must remember—we still have much further to go.”
Honouring Heroes of Democracy
President Tinubu paid glowing tributes to pro-democracy icons, especially Chief MKO Abiola, whom he described as the central figure of June 12. He commended former President Muhammadu Buhari for officially recognizing the 1993 elections and declaring June 12 as Democracy Day.
He also honoured the memories of Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, Pa Alfred Rewane, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Chief Anthony Enahoro, Bagauda Kaltho, Commodore Dan Suleiman, and others who suffered persecution during military rule.
“The struggle was never the province of any one group or section of the country,” Tinubu said, “it was pan-Nigerian in its conception and will be even more pan-Nigerian as we strive to perfect it.”
Dismissing Rumours of One-Party State
Addressing concerns about Nigeria drifting into a one-party system, Tinubu firmly dispelled the rumour as unfounded. Citing his own political history as one who stood resiliently against hegemonic tendencies in the past, the President reassured lawmakers and citizens that he remains committed to multiparty democracy.
“A one-party state is not in the offing. Nor should it ever be,” he declared. “We must welcome and accept the diversity and number of political parties just as we embrace the diversity of our population.”
While welcoming defectors from Delta and Akwa Ibom, including Governors Sheriff Oborevwori and Umo Eno, Tinubu advised opposition parties to introspect rather than scapegoat.
Economic Progress and Structural Reforms
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President Tinubu highlighted a string of economic reforms and improvements under his administration. He reported a 3.4% GDP growth in 2024, with Q4 growth reaching 4.6%—the highest in over a decade. Inflation is easing, food staples are stabilizing, and foreign reserves have increased fivefold.
“Our balance of payments position is positive; our sovereign credit rating is improving as we promote oil and non-oil exports,” he said. “States now do not need to go borrowing to pay salaries.”
He also announced that over 100,000 Nigerians—including 35,000 civil servants—have accessed consumer credit through the newly established CREDICORP. A bold initiative to extend credit access to 400,000 youth, including corps members, will launch in July.
Infrastructure, Digital Connectivity, and Job Creation
To bridge Nigeria’s digital divide, Tinubu disclosed that the federal government is laying nationwide fibre optic cables—a move set to revolutionize education, business, and social inclusion. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to empowering youth through job creation, skill-building, and education financing, referencing initiatives such as NELFUND.
“Our ‘Nigeria First’ policy will further enhance market-driven growth,” he added, reaffirming Nigeria’s ambition to achieve food sovereignty and a 7% economic growth rate in the medium term.
Legislative Partnership and Call for Action
The President lauded the National Assembly for its partnership, particularly in tax reform deliberations, and urged lawmakers to sustain the momentum by passing legislation that promotes industrialisation and food security.
“We must work together to produce laws that strengthen our economy and uphold our democracy,” Tinubu said. “I pledge myself to this cooperation and ask that you do the same for the good of our people.”
Tolerance and Civil Liberties
On civil liberties, the President issued a passionate defence of free speech, encouraging lawmakers to be broad-minded and receptive to criticism.
“Call me names, call me whatever you will, and I will still call upon democracy to defend your right to do so,” he said. “Democracy requires a fair degree of tolerance for harsh words and stinging insults.”
A Nation in Transition
Concluding his address, Tinubu described Nigeria as being at an “inflection point,” moving toward structural and foundational changes that would secure its future. He assured Nigerians of his administration’s focus on infrastructure—roads, rail, power, and ports—to boost productivity and manufacturing.
“Our nation is not perfect, but it is strong. Our democracy is not invincible, but it is alive,” the President declared. “And this means our dream of a prosperous, happy nation is still within reach and worth fighting for.”
By PRNigeria
