Nigeria’s Democracy Day celebration took a turn on Friday as President Bola Tinubu used the national broadcast to unveil fresh security measures, defend his economic reforms, and send a strong message to criminals threatening the country.
In a speech that touched on security, governance, jobs, electricity, agriculture, and democracy, the president insisted that Nigeria was making progress despite ongoing challenges. Moreover, he called on citizens to remain hopeful and continue supporting efforts aimed at rebuilding the country.
The Democracy Day address also featured a major appeal to young Nigerians. Tinubu urged them to believe in the country rather than seek opportunities elsewhere.
Addressing the nation, the president said democracy remains one of Nigeria’s greatest achievements.
“Today, we celebrate democracy and the enduring Nigerian spirit,” Tinubu said.
He added that Nigerians have enjoyed 27 uninterrupted years of civilian rule, describing it as the longest democratic period in the nation’s history.
According to him, democratic institutions must continue to be protected and strengthened. Furthermore, he urged political parties, security agencies, the judiciary, and civil society groups to play their roles responsibly.
Speaking directly to young Nigerians, Tinubu said:
“To our young people: Nigeria is your home and your future. Build here, code here, work here, and vote here.”
The president also acknowledged growing security concerns across parts of the country. However, he assured citizens that his administration remains committed to defeating terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping.
He disclosed that more than 50,000 police officers have been approved for recruitment. In addition, thousands of military recruits are expected to strengthen security operations nationwide.
Tinubu revealed that the 2026 national budget allocated N5.41 trillion to defence and security. The amount represents the highest security allocation in Nigeria’s history.
Meanwhile, he highlighted military gains against terrorist groups. According to him, major operations have weakened insurgent networks in the North-East.
“We degraded ISWAP’s command centre,” he said while discussing recent military achievements.
The president further stated that terror-related deaths have dropped significantly since 2015. Moreover, he disclosed that over 13,000 terrorists were neutralised during the past year.
Despite the security gains, Tinubu admitted that recent kidnappings in Oyo and Borno states remain a source of concern.
“Though this year’s mood is dampened by the abduction of our children in Oyo and Borno, we remain hopeful for their safe return,” he stated.
Tinubu defended key policy decisions introduced since taking office. According to him, difficult reforms were necessary to stabilise public finances and restore investor confidence.
He noted that revenue available to states and local governments has increased. Furthermore, he said transparency has improved while financial leakages have been reduced.
The president highlighted growth in agriculture, manufacturing, technology, mining, transportation, and creative industries.
In addition, he pointed to rising domestic refining capacity as a positive development for energy security.
On electricity, Tinubu admitted that the sector faced deep-rooted problems before his administration took office.
He explained that the Electricity Act now gives states greater authority to generate and distribute power. Meanwhile, efforts are ongoing to reduce the metering gap affecting millions of consumers.
“The Presidential Power Sector Task Force is working hard to reduce the metering deficit,” he said.
The president also announced plans to deploy 10,000 tractors over five years through the National Agricultural Development Fund. Furthermore, he disclosed that more than 1,000 small businesses have been certified for export.
While acknowledging that many Nigerians still face hardship, Tinubu expressed confidence that conditions would improve.
“We are moving from uncertainty to stability,” he stated.
The president stressed that democracy should bring visible benefits to citizens.
“We believe that Democracy must be felt in the pocket,” he said.
Meanwhile, he paid tribute to the heroes of the June 12 struggle, including the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola and other pro-democracy activists.
Several individuals were also announced as recipients of national honours for their contributions to democratic development.
As the nation marked another Democracy Day, Tinubu urged Nigerians to remain united and optimistic.
