Abuja: President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to continue defending and strengthening democracy, emphasizing that it is a collective national achievement built on the enduring spirit of the people. Tinubu made this appeal during his Democracy Day address, highlighting Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule since 1999. He noted that citizens had consistently chosen their leaders through the ballot box and resolved disputes through constitutional means.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Tinubu remarked, “Today, we celebrate not only democracy but also the enduring Nigerian spirit. For 27 unbroken years, since May 29, 1999, Nigerians have chosen their leaders through the ballot, witnessed peaceful transitions of power, and resolved disagreements in courtrooms and legislative chambers, not through violence. We have experienced the longest stretch of civilian rule in our history. Our democracy is not perfect, but it is ours, and we must continue to defend and strengthen it.”
Ahead of the f
orthcoming elections in Ekiti and Osun, Tinubu urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and political parties to ensure peaceful, transparent, and credible polls. He stressed that democracy is weakened when citizens lose confidence in the electoral process.
The president also commended the National Assembly, judiciary, media, and civil society organizations for their roles in safeguarding democratic governance. He stated, “To our National Assembly, judiciary, the press, and civil society: you are the guardrails of our republic. Criticise me, disagree with me, but never stop believing in Nigeria.”
Tinubu encouraged young Nigerians to contribute actively to nation-building by investing their talents and energy in the country. He stated, “To our young people: Nigeria is your home and your future. Build here, code here, work here, and vote here. Every great nation was built by those who stayed to solve problems, not by those who abandoned ship.”
The president also paid tri
bute to members of the armed forces, police, and intelligence agencies for their sacrifices in safeguarding the nation. He also expressed gratitude to traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community heads for promoting peace, dialogue, and reconciliation across the country. Tinubu emphasized, “The government cannot do it alone.”