President Tinubu Reaffirms Commitment to Democratic Governance and National Development
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday, June 12, 2025, addressed a joint session of the National Assembly to commemorate Nigeria’s Democracy Day, emphasizing his administration’s dedication to democracy, national unity, economic reforms, and security.
In his speech, Tinubu paid tribute to the heroes of Nigeria’s democratic struggle, including the late Chief MKO Abiola and other activists who fought against military rule. He praised former President Muhammadu Buhari for declaring June 12 as Democracy Day and recognizing the annulled 1993 presidential election.
> “Democracy rose from the ashes of military rule in 1999. We must preserve and deepen it through dialogue, debate, and cooperation,” Tinubu said.
Tinubu Debunks One-Party State Allegation
The President dismissed speculations about plans to create a one-party state, calling the rumour baseless.
> “My political history proves otherwise. I stood for opposition when others fell. Nigeria will not become a one-party state under my watch,” he assured.
Tinubu welcomed new members from opposition parties joining the APC, including Governors Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta) and Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), saying democracy must remain open, competitive, and inclusive.
Nigeria’s Economic Reforms Are Working – Tinubu
Highlighting the government’s economic strides, Tinubu announced that Nigeria’s GDP grew by 3.4% in 2024, with the fourth quarter peaking at 4.6%—the highest in over a decade. He noted that inflation was easing, the exchange rate stabilizing, and foreign reserves improving.
He mentioned the impact of the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP), which has provided over 100,000 Nigerians, including 35,000 civil servants, access to consumer credit.
> “This July, 400,000 more Nigerians, including youth corpers, will benefit from our credit expansion plans,” he added.
Tinubu also emphasized efforts in digital infrastructure, announcing the rollout of nationwide fibre optic cables to improve internet access, promote e-learning, and support digital businesses.
Supporting Youths, Industry and Tax Reforms
The President reiterated his commitment to youth empowerment through education and skill-building programs like NELFUND. He also mentioned the establishment of the National Credit Guarantee Company backed by ₦100 billion to support small businesses and industrial development.
He praised the National Assembly for its support in passing tax reform bills aimed at simplifying Nigeria’s tax system and easing the burden on small businesses.
> “We have introduced reforms to eliminate multiple taxation and established the Office of the Tax Ombudsman to protect taxpayer rights,” he said.
Democracy and National Security
Tinubu urged lawmakers to uphold civil liberties, encourage dialogue, and resist dictatorship.
> “Even harsh words and criticism must be tolerated in a true democracy. Democracy defends the right to free expression,” he said.
He reaffirmed his government’s commitment to national security, acknowledging the military’s role in combating terrorism and securing communities.
> “Our Armed Forces deserve our deepest gratitude and continued support,” Tinubu stated.
Honours for Heroes of Democracy
To mark the 26th anniversary of uninterrupted democracy in Nigeria, President Tinubu announced national honours for several heroes of the June 12 struggle.
Posthumous national honours were awarded to Kudirat Abiola (CFR), Shehu Musa Yar’Adua (GCFR), Prof. Humphrey Nwosu (CON), and other prominent pro-democracy figures.
He also honoured living icons like Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka (GCON), journalist Kunle Ajibade (OON), Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah (CON), and human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN (CON), among others.
Looking Ahead
President Tinubu concluded by calling on all Nigerians to stay hopeful and united.
> “Our democracy is not perfect, but it is alive. Our nation is not without challenges, but the Nigerian Dream is still within reach,” he affirmed.
He urged the National Assembly to partner with his administration in passing innovative laws that support industrialization, job creation, and food security.
