President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to democracy, national security, and economic reform in his 2026 Democracy Day address, describing Nigeria’s 27 years of continuous civilian rule as a testament to national resilience and unity.
Speaking to Nigerians on June 12, Tinubu noted that since 1999, the country has maintained uninterrupted democratic governance, stressing that although the system is imperfect, it remains a collective achievement that must be protected and strengthened.
He called on institutions such as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the judiciary, civil society, the media, and the National Assembly to continue serving as safeguards of democracy, urging them to remain fearless in holding government accountable.
Security, Reform and National Stability
Tinubu addressed ongoing security challenges, including recent abductions in Oyo and Borno States, while assuring citizens of intensified efforts to secure the country.
He disclosed that the administration had declared a security emergency and recruited over 50,000 police officers alongside additional military personnel.
He further revealed that ₦5.41 trillion had been allocated in the 2026 budget for defence and security, describing it as the largest in Nigeria’s history.
According to him, “terror-related deaths are down significantly,” and over 13,000 terrorists were neutralised within a year, while more than 124,000 fighters and their dependents surrendered under Operation Safe Corridor since 2023.
Tinubu warned criminal elements, stating: “Surrender or face the full force of the Nigerian State,” while emphasising that national unity is essential in the fight against insecurity.
Economic Reforms and Infrastructure Growth
The President defended ongoing economic reforms, explaining that they were necessary to restore fiscal stability and attract investment.
He stated that government revenues had improved, enabling increased funding for infrastructure, healthcare, education, and security.
He added that investor confidence has returned across key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, mining, technology, and energy.
Tinubu also highlighted progress in the power sector, referencing the Electricity Act, which allows states to participate in electricity generation, transmission, and distribution. He noted ongoing efforts to reduce metering gaps and improve rural electrification.
Democracy, June 12 Legacy and National Unity
Reflecting on the significance of June 12, Tinubu said it represents a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey, honouring the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola and other pro-democracy heroes who fought for political freedom.
He stated that the next phase of national development must focus on economic freedom, adding that “democracy must be felt in the pocket.”
He urged young Nigerians to remain in the country and contribute to its development, encouraging innovation and civic participation.
Honours and Recognitions
The President also announced national honours for several Nigerians and pro-democracy activists, acknowledging their sacrifices during the struggle for democratic governance.
The recipients include:
Barrister Ayoka Lawani
Tunde Fagbenle
Oladele Alake
Olatunji Bello
Louis Odion
Segun Babatope
Sam Omatseye
Sir Ademola Osinubi
Bola Bolawole
Lade Bonuola
Femi Kusa
Debo Adeniran
Chief Ayo Opadokun
Chief Ralph Obiora
Ose Osayande
Barrister Osa Director
Prof. Sylvester Odion-Akhaine
Dr Arthur Nwankwo (posthumous)
Dr Osagie Obayuwana
Dr Joe Okei-Odumakin
Barrister Titus Mann
Joe Igbokwe
Richard Akinnola
Ben Charles-Obi (posthumous)
George Mbah
Dr Niran Malaolu
Major-General Ishola Williams (rtd)
Femi Aborisade
Jenkins Alumona
Gbemiga Ogunleye
Muyiwa Adekeye
Babajide Kolade-Otitoju
Ike Okonta
Tinubu also recognised several military officers involved in the June 12 struggle, including:
Major General M.A. Garba
Brigadier General Lawal Jaafaru Isa
Colonel Umar Farouk Ahmed
Colonel Sambo Dasuki
Colonel Lawan Gwadabe
Brigadier General Jonathan Ndam Temlong
Colonel Musa Shehu
Major General Chris Eze
Major General Harris Dzarma
Colonel Isa Jibrin
Major General Joseph Oshanupin
Colonel Olusegun Oloruntoba
Lieutenant Colonel Happy Kefas Bulus
Colonel J. Okai
Colonel Emmanuel Ndubueze
Lieutenant Colonel Yakubu Muazu
Brigadier Yahaya Abubakar (Etsu Nupe)
The Federal Government said the full honours list will be officially released in the coming days.
Tinubu concluded by urging Nigerians to reject division and maintain faith in the country’s democratic journey, stressing that while challenges remain, Nigeria continues to move “from uncertainty to stability.”
He added that the nation’s diversity should be seen as a strength, not a weakness, as Nigeria works toward long-term prosperity under democratic governance.
