Protocol:
- With profound honour, I stand before this joint session of our National Assembly, a parliament that embodies the will of the Nigerian people.
- Today, as I entered this grand edifice built from the sweat and toil of our democratic yearning, my heart stirred. It was a blend of accomplishment and resolve.
- I felt a sense of collective accomplishment when I realised how far we have come as a nation. Since 1999, democracy has risen from the ashes and destitution of military rule to take its rightful place as the only mode of governance of our resilient and beloved people.
- With every footstep I took through these hallowed halls up to the moment I now stand before you, I remembered that we still have much further to go.
- This day marks the 26th anniversary of our unbroken democratic journey, a testament to the enduring spirit of the Nigerian people and our collective resolve to uphold the principles of freedom, justice, and self-determination.
- The theme of this year’s Democracy Day, “Consolidating on the Gains of Nigeria’s Democracy: Necessity of Enduring Reforms,” compels us to reflect on our progress, honour our past, and recommit to the work that lies ahead.
- June 12 is not just a date; it is a symbol of struggle, sacrifice, and triumph. It is a day we honour the heroes who fought tirelessly to birth the democracy we now enjoy. Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, the winner of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, remains the enduring symbol of that struggle. His vision for a prosperous Nigeria, encapsulated in his manifesto “Farewell to Poverty,” continues to inspire us.
- Let me pay tribute to my predecessor, President Muhammadu Buhari, for reaching back into history to rectify a national misdeed by making June 12 Democracy Day and by officially acknowledging Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola and his running mate, Babagana Kingibe, as the victors and thus duly elected President and Vice President respectively of Nigeria after the June 12, 1993 elections.
- We also remember the sacrifices of Kudirat Abiola, Pa Alfred Rewane, General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, and countless others who laid down their lives or endured immense hardship to secure our democratic freedoms. Their courage and conviction lit the path for the return of democracy in 1999.
- In this light, I am proud to announce the conferment of the posthumous national honour of CFR on Kudirat Abiola, the heroine of the June 12 struggle. I also confer posthumous national honours on Shehu Musa Yar’Adua (GCFR), Prof. Humphrey Nwosu (CON), Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu (CON), Alhaji Balarabe Musa (CFR), Pa. Alfred Rewane (CFR), Bagauda Kaltho (OON), Chima Ubani (OON), Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti (CON), Alao Aka Bashorun (CON), Chief Frank Kokori (CON), Emma Ezeazu (OON), Bamidele Aturu (OON), Fredrick Fasehun (CON), Professor Festus Iyayi (CON), Dr. John Yima Sen (OON), Alhaja Sawaba Gambo (CON), Dr. Edwin Madunagu (CON), Dr. Alex Ibru (CON), and Chief Bola Ige (CFR).
- We must celebrate the courage of Kudirat Abiola and Pa Alfred Rewane, both of whom were murdered by agents of military repression. We remember the many civil rights activists, journalists, and politicians who were imprisoned, exiled, tossed aside, and beaten.
- These honours are a testament to their contributions to the democratic struggle and a reminder that their sacrifices will never be in vain.
- Year by year, election after election, every time we debate instead of battle, discuss instead of fight, and argue instead of destroy, we preserve the institutions of democracy. More importantly, we weave the culture of democracy into the very fabric of our nation.
- As we mark 26 years of uninterrupted democracy, we must acknowledge the resilience of our democratic institutions. The National Assembly, the judiciary, and the executive have grown stronger, navigating challenges and fostering accountability.
- The fierce debates, competitive elections, and robust civic engagements of the past 26 years testify to the vibrancy of our democracy. These are not flaws but strengths, proof that democracy is alive and thriving in Nigeria.
- Whilst–
- Chief MKO Abiola is June 12’s central figure, we must not forget the long list of those who equally deserve to be called heroes of Nigerian democracy.
- As your President, I vow to do my utmost to protect the rights, freedoms, and liberties of every Nigerian citizen. More than that, I pledge to do whatever is necessary to cement democracy as our way of life.
- Although the challenges are steep and multiple, I am grateful to lead Nigeria at this moment in her history and point in her democratic journey. The task before us is to consolidate the gains of our democracy through enduring reforms.
- Over the past 18 months, my administration has embarked on bold reforms to restructure our economy and ensure it is strong enough to withstand global economic shocks. These reforms are not without pain, but they are necessary to secure a prosperous future for our nation.
- We have invested heavily in infrastructure—roads, ports, rail, and power—to drive economic growth. We are implementing tax reforms to create a more conducive environment for industry and manufacturing.
- Our efforts to stabilize the economy include measures to reduce reliance on food imports through enhanced agricultural productivity, spurred by improved security and bumper harvests. Foreign exchange inflows have increased through portfolio investments, and crude oil output has risen, reducing upstream production costs.
- The improvements we witnessed in the 2024 budget have led us into the 2025 budget. The goals of advancing national security, creating economic opportunities, investing in our youthful population, infrastructure development, and national re-orientation form the core of the 2025 budget.
- The 2025 budget that I presented to this distinguished joint session of the National Assembly is one of restoration. It seeks to consolidate the key policies we have instituted to restructure our economy, boost human capital development, increase the volume of trade and investments, bolster oil and gas production, get our manufacturing sector humming again, and ultimately increase the competitiveness of our economy.
- The budget allocates significant resources to critical sectors: N4.91 trillion for defence and security, N4.06 trillion for infrastructure, N2.48 trillion for health, and N3.52 trillion for education. These investments aim to secure peace, rebuild prosperity, and ensure no Nigerian is left behind.
- Our democracy is not just about elections or governance structures; it is about delivering social and economic justice. Chief MKO Abiola believed poverty was man-made and could be eliminated through thoughtful policies. We are committed to this vision, ensuring resources are shared equitably, not hoarded by a select few.
- As we celebrate 26 years of democracy, let us renew our commitment to unity, peace, and progress. I call on all Nigerians to reflect on our journey and rededicate ourselves to building a more inclusive, prosperous, and united nation.
- To my political opponents, I extend a hand of fellowship. The election is over; it is time to work together for the sake of our country. I will not interfere in the internal affairs of the opposition, as I believe in the independence of our democratic institutions.
- Political parties fearful of members leaving may be better served by examining their internal processes and affairs, rather than fearfully conjuring up demons that do not exist. I will not say, try your best to put your house in order. I will not help you to do so, either.
- You are all welcome to the progressive fold. Nobody should close the door.
- Let us, as joint-heirs to the Nigerian commonwealth, cooperate for the peace, progress, and stability of our country. The light each of us carries—men and women, young and old—must shine brighter to illuminate our path to a glorious dawn.
- In conclusion, let us rededicate ourselves to the ideals of June 12: freedom, transparent and accountable government, social justice, active citizen participation, and a just society where no one is oppressed.
- Happy Democracy Day, and may God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria and protect our troops.
Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria
President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria
