Tinubu Reaffirms Commitment to National Unity and Economic Reform in Democracy Day Address

Abuja, Nigeria – June 12, 2025 | In a powerful address to the nation marking this year’s Democracy Day, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu delivered a passionate speech before a joint session of the National Assembly, reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic progress and outlining key reforms under his leadership.

President Tinubu opened his remarks by paying tribute to democratic icons, including the late Chief MKO Abiola, whose legacy of resistance and sacrifice helped usher in the return of civil rule. He also saluted former President Muhammadu Buhari for officially designating June 12 as Democracy Day, a move Tinubu described as a vital step in preserving Nigeria’s political history.

Speaking firmly on the state of the nation, Tinubu dismissed any notions of a planned one-party state, emphasizing the need for vibrant political opposition and the sanctity of democratic freedom. He described the growing support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a sign of political confidence, not coercion, urging other parties to strengthen internal discipline and connect better with citizens.

On the economy, the President announced a number of milestones, including a rebound in economic growth, improved foreign reserves, a more stable naira, and reduced dependence on borrowing by state governments. He revealed that Nigeria’s GDP grew by 3.4% in 2024, with the last quarter recording the highest growth in over ten years.

President Tinubu also unveiled the expansion of his administration’s credit access initiative, noting that over 100,000 Nigerians, including 35,000 federal workers, have already benefited. By July, he said, 400,000 more youths, including members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), will receive interest-free consumer credit to boost productivity and financial independence.

The President concluded with a call for unity, urging Nigerians across political, religious, and ethnic lines to stand together in defense of democracy, national development, and a shared future