TINUBU MARKS DEMOCRACY DAY WITH REFORMS, RECONCILIATION, AND RESOLVE

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu used Nigeria’s 2025 Democracy Day celebrations to deliver a wide-ranging address that blended national reconciliation with firm political messaging and bold economic promises.
Speaking during a special joint session of the National Assembly, Tinubu honoured key figures in Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle—bestowing posthumous national awards on Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, Bola Ige, Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, and others. He said June 12 is not just about the late Chief MKO Abiola but about all who paid a price for Nigeria’s democratic transition.
He rejected any suggestion that his administration seeks to establish a one-party state, stating, “A one-party state is not in the offing—nor should it ever be.” In a thinly veiled jab at the opposition, he mocked the disarray within parties like the PDP and Labour Party, saying he would not interfere in their internal crises.
Tinubu then pivoted to defend civil liberties, encouraging political tolerance and the right to free speech—even against his own presidency. “Call me names if you wish—I will still call upon democracy to defend your right to do so,” he said.
On the economy, the president touted GDP growth of 3.4% in 2024 and a Q4 peak of 4.6%, claiming inflation was easing, foreign reserves had risen fivefold, and the Naira had stabilised. He highlighted the success of new initiatives like Credicorp, which has provided consumer credit to over 100,000 Nigerians, and announced plans to extend access to 400,000 youths by July, including NYSC members.
He appealed to lawmakers to support his economic and legislative agenda—especially in industrial development, tax reform, and digital infrastructure—while unveiling a ₦100 billion-backed National Credit Guarantee Company to help manufacturers.
Tinubu also praised Nigeria’s armed forces, asserting that national security has improved through inter-agency cooperation and ongoing reforms in intelligence and technology.
In sum, Tinubu’s Democracy Day message was one of consolidation: reconciling with the past, tightening political control, and asserting progress under his leadership—while appealing for legislative support to sustain momentum.