DEMOCRACY DAY 2026: Tinubu rallies Nigerians to defend democracy, pledges N5.41trn to fight insecurity
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerians to remain steadfast in defending and strengthening the country’s democracy, acknowledging that while the system is not perfect, it remains the ultimate vehicle for national growth.
In his nationwide 2026 Democracy Day address, President Tinubu highlighted that since the return to civilian rule on May 29, 1999, Nigerians have consistently chosen their leaders through the ballot, witnessed peaceful transitions of power, and resolved grievances through legal and legislative channels rather than violence.
“Our democracy is not perfect, but it is ours, and we must continue to defend and strengthen it,” the President declared.
‘Build here, code here’ — Tinubu slams ‘Japa’ syndrome
Addressing the country’s youth, President Tinubu urged them to resist the urge to abandon the country, advising them to channel their talents into developing Nigeria.
“Nigeria is your home and your future,” Tinubu said. “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.”
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He also extended his appreciation to the armed forces, traditional rulers, and religious leaders for their roles in maintaining peace, emphasizing that governance requires collective effort.
Honours for Shehu Yar’Adua, pro-democracy heroes
To mark the resilience of those who fought against tyranny, the President announced the renaming of the Institute of Petroleum Studies, Kaduna, to the General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua University of Geological Sciences and Engineering Technology.
Furthermore, Tinubu announced upcoming National Awards for patriots who endured persecution, exile, and incarceration during the struggle for democratic rule. He noted that the full honours list would be released within days.
The president admitted that this year’s celebrations were dampened by the recent abductions of school children and teachers in Oyo and Borno states. Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to safety, he revealed that Nigeria’s 2026 budget commits a record N5.41 trillion to defence and security.
Issuing a stern warning to bandits and kidnappers, Tinubu urged them to surrender or face the full force of the state, adding, “No mercy will be shown to those who trade in the blood of Nigerians.” He also cautioned citizens against ethnic profiling, stating that “crime has no ethnicity.”
Mirroring the president’s sentiments, state executives across the country issued statements calling for unity and accountability.
In Bauchi State, Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed urged citizens to renew their commitment to tolerance, justice, and inclusive governance. In a statement via his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar Gidado, the governor emphasized that national development can only be achieved when leaders and citizens work collectively.
In Gombe State, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya described democracy as the most reliable pathway to sustainable development. He noted that Gombe’s visible strides in infrastructure, healthcare, and education are direct products of uninterrupted civilian rule and responsible leadership.
