President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy as he addressed a joint session of the National Assembly to mark 2026 Democracy Day.
Speaking at the National Assembly complex in Abuja, the President said the occasion stirred in him “a blend of accomplishment and resolve” as he reflected on Nigeria’s democratic journey since 1999.
“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,” he stated.
President Tinubu noted that since the end of military rule 27 years ago, democracy had “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 further pledged to do all within his power to protect and strengthen democratic institutions, saying: “I hereby affirm before our Merciful and Almighty God and all men my resolve to do all that I can to safeguard and build our democracy as the Divine hand intends for us to do.”
The President also paid tribute to former President Muhammadu Buhari for declaring June 12 Democracy Day and for posthumously recognising Chief MKO Abiola and his running mate, Babagana Kingibe, as winners of the annulled 12 June 1993 presidential election.
According to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, the full address highlights progress made in consolidating democracy, strengthening institutions, and advancing reforms under the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Democracy Day is observed annually on 12 June in honour of Chief MKO Abiola and the 1993 election, widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest poll.