Democracy Day: President Bola Tinubu, on Friday, used his 2026 Democracy Day address to urge Nigerian youths to remain committed to the country’s development, insisting that Nigeria’s future lies in the hands of a generation willing to build solutions rather than abandon the nation.
Speaking during his Democracy Day nationwide broadcast on June 12, 2026, the President appealed to young Nigerians to maintain faith in the country despite prevailing challenges, while encouraging constructive criticism and active participation in nation-building.
Addressing the youth directly, Tinubu said, “Criticise me, disagree with me, but never stop believing in Nigeria.”
He stressed that Nigeria remains the home and future of its young population, urging them to channel their talents and innovation into the country’s growth instead of seeking opportunities elsewhere.
“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 declared.
Tinubu also paid tribute to members of the nation’s security agencies for their commitment to safeguarding the country, commending the Armed Forces, police and intelligence services for their sacrifices.
“To our armed forces, police, and intelligence services: Nigeria salutes your sacrifice,” he said.
The President equally acknowledged the contributions of traditional rulers, religious leaders and community heads toward promoting peace and national unity, noting that government alone cannot achieve lasting reconciliation.
“To our traditional rulers, faith leaders, and community heads: thank you for your support of peace and reconciliation. The government cannot do it alone,” he added.
Reflecting on the significance of Democracy Day, Tinubu honoured the sacrifices of pro-democracy activists and patriots who fought for the nation’s democratic freedoms, saying their resilience laid the foundation for the liberties Nigerians enjoy today.
“Today, we honour the resilience of Nigerians who refused to surrender their faith in freedom, and the courage of those who stood firm against intimidation. We pay tribute to patriots who endured persecution, imprisonment, exile, and even death so that future generations could enjoy democracy,” he said.
The President further saluted labour leaders, journalists, activists, students, women, professionals, political leaders and members of the military, both living and deceased, for their patriotic contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey.
His remarks come as the nation marks 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance since 1999, with renewed calls for national unity, citizen participation and inclusive development.
