Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT) has called on Nigerians and their representatives to remain united in protecting the country’s hard-won democracy, reminding the nation that freedom is never handed over — it must be earned, protected, and sustained.
Speaking during a special address to the joint session of the National Assembly in honour of Democracy Day 2025, President Tinubu said democracy in Nigeria has come a long way — not by chance, but through the sweat, sacrifice, and even blood of patriots.
“Democracy is not a gift—it is a struggle we must continue,” Tinubu declared in a passionate speech that reflected on Nigeria’s journey from military dictatorship to civilian rule.
PBAT also paid special tribute to the heroes of Nigeria’s democratic struggle since 1999, especially Chief Moshood Kashimawo Abiola (MKO), whose 1993 presidential election was annulled, and to others like Kudirat Abiola, Pa Alfred Rewane, Gani Fawehinmi, and many more who were either killed, jailed, exiled, or silenced during the military era.
He commended former President Muhammadu Buhari for taking the bold step to officially recognise June 12 as Democracy Day, and for posthumously honouring MKO Abiola and his running mate, Babagana Kingibe, as the true winners of the 1993 election.
PBATalso reminded lawmakers and citizens alike that Nigeria’s democracy is still a work in progress.
“As I walked through these hallowed halls today, I felt a mix of accomplishment and responsibility. We have come far, but we still have far to go,” he said.
President Tinubu highlighted key moments when the National Assembly had stood as a pillar of democracy, such as the rejection of the third-term agenda in 2006, and the 2010 “doctrine of necessity” that allowed Vice President Goodluck Jonathan to become Acting President during President Yar’Adua’s health crisis.
“You are the authors of the people’s law, and I must be their faithful implementer,” he said. “While we may not always agree, we must work together because that is what democracy demands.”
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He stressed that the democratic fight was not limited to any region or group — it was a pan-Nigerian mission, and perfecting it must be a shared national task.
The president ended on a solemn note, reaffirming his commitment to serve the people and to defend the democracy that cost Nigeria so much to win.
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