By PRESIDENT Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Wednesday, delivered a stirring address to a joint session of the National Assembly to commemorate Nigeria’s 2025 Democracy Day, paying tribute to democratic heroes such as Chief Frank Kokori, outlining reforms, and dismissing fears of a one-party state under his administration.
The President, in his first address to the legislature since assuming office, described the parliament as “a symbol of the people’s will” and affirmed his unwavering commitment to democratic governance.
“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,” he stated.
Tinubu emotionally recalled the sacrifices made by countless Nigerians in the fight to restore civilian rule, describing the journey as a collective national effort. “We must celebrate the courage of Alhaja Kudirat Abiola and Pa Alfred Rewane, both of whom were murdered by agents of military repression,” he said, adding that “the struggle was never the province of any one group or section of the country; it was pan-Nigerian in its conception and will be even more pan-Nigerian as we strive to perfect it.”
In a historic move, Tinubu conferred posthumous national honours on more than 50 democracy activists, civil rights champions, journalists, and political leaders. Notably, Kudirat Abiola received the Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) award, while other recipients included Chief Bola Ige, Ken Saro-Wiwa, Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, and literary icon Prof Wole Soyinka.
Debunking the ‘One-Party State’ Narrative
Responding directly to speculation that the All Progressives Congress (APC) was aiming to establish a one-party system, Tinubu issued a strong denial, describing such claims as “alarmist and unfounded.”
“At no time in the past, nor any instance in the present, and at no future juncture shall I view the notion of a one-party state as good for Nigeria,” the President affirmed. “Nigeria will not become such a state now.”
Referencing his own political history, Tinubu recalled standing firm as the “last of the progressive governors” in his region in 2003. “Even with all of that, they could not control our national destiny because fate is written from above,” he said, declaring that “a one-party state is not in the offing. Nor should it ever be.”
However, he welcomed new defectors to the APC, including Governors Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State and Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom, urging rival parties to “examine their internal processes” rather than “fearfully conjuring up demons that do not exist.”
Economic Progress and Reforms
Shifting focus to the economy, Tinubu highlighted what he described as early gains of his administration’s reforms, including a 3.4% GDP growth in 2024 and a stabilised exchange rate.
“Our net foreign reserves have increased fivefold, and the Naira exchange rate has stabilised,” he announced. “In less than one year, over 100,000 Nigerians, including 35,000 civil servants, have benefited from affordable consumer credit.”
He also disclosed plans to empower 400,000 youths, including corps members, through credit facilities next month. “We are committed to giving more opportunities to young people through job creation and skills development,” he added.
The President further revealed that Nigeria had embarked on a national fibre optic project to boost digital connectivity and education, asserting: “This initiative promises not only to enhance internet access but also to revolutionise how students learn and how communities stay connected.”
Tinubu also reiterated the administration’s target of achieving 7% economic growth, driven by manufacturing and food sovereignty. “We must learn to produce and grow most of our food,” he said.
Call for Legislative Cooperation
President Tinubu praised the National Assembly for its historical role in safeguarding democracy, particularly during the 2006 anti-third term debate and the 2010 invocation of the “doctrine of necessity.”
“The National Assembly has acted to uphold democratic ideals at every critical moment,” he said, pledging closer collaboration. “While we may not always agree, we must forge a way to work together because this is what democracy demands of us.”
He called on lawmakers to “put forth innovative legislation” that supports industrial development, job creation, and food security. “Again, your collaboration across party lines on these bills has been a model of democratic partnership,” he noted.
Free Speech, Civil Liberties and National Unity
Emphasising tolerance and civil rights, Tinubu encouraged lawmakers to value dialogue and dissent. “Some of the best advice a politician gets sometimes comes from his most ferocious opponents,” he said. “Call me names, call me whatever you will, and I will still call upon democracy to defend your right to do so.”
While condemning malicious slander, he stressed the importance of free speech in strengthening democracy. “Democracy requires a fair degree of tolerance for harsh words and stinging insults,” he asserted.
Honouring National Icons
In an emotional highlight, Tinubu announced national honours and presidential pardons for members of the “Ogoni Nine,” including Ken Saro-Wiwa, who were executed in 1995 under military rule. “I shall be exercising my powers under the prerogative of mercy to grant these national heroes a full pardon,” he declared.
The President also conferred the honour of CON on Uncle Sam Amuka Pemu, founder of Vanguard Newspapers, as he marks his 90th birthday.
National Security and Governance
Acknowledging the efforts of the Armed Forces, Tinubu stated: “Let us thank the men and women of our Armed Forces for their bravery. Their dedication should serve as an inspiration to us all.”
He emphasised that governance must work for the people, announcing tax exemptions for small businesses and digital tools to improve transparency. “Governance must deliver value. Our tax and fiscal policy reforms will eliminate burdensome and multiple taxes,” he added.
Conclusion: A Pledge to June 12 Ideals
Closing on a reflective note, President Tinubu urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in building a just and inclusive society.
“Our democracy is not invincible, but it is alive,” he declared. “Let us rededicate ourselves to the ideals of June 12 – freedom, accountable government, social justice and a just society where no one is oppressed.”
“Happy Democracy Day,” he concluded, “and may God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria and protect our troops.”
What's your reaction?
