President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to deepening democracy in Nigeria, declaring that the country will never become a one-party state under his watch.
Addressing a joint session of the National Assembly, the President celebrated Nigeria’s 26 years of unbroken democracy and paid tribute to heroes who fought for its restoration, including Chief MKO Abiola and Alhaja Kudirat Abiola.
“In 2003, when the then-ruling party tried to wipe out the opposition, I was the last progressive governor standing in my region. I resisted then. I will resist now,” the President declared.
He lauded the role of the National Assembly in protecting democracy during critical moments, including the rejection of a third-term bid in 2006 and the activation of the doctrine of necessity in 2010.
President Tinubu also used the opportunity to dismiss rumours about an attempt to create a one-party state, stressing that political pluralism must be protected and encouraged for national unity.
“No one should be punished for calling me names,” he stated. “Democracy requires tolerance for stinging insults. I will still call upon democracy to defend your right to do so.”
Highlighting economic progress, the President announced that GDP grew by 3.4% in 2024, with Q4 hitting a decade-high 4.6%. Inflation is easing, the naira has stabilised, and foreign reserves have increased fivefold.
He disclosed that over 100,000 Nigerians, including 35,000 civil servants, have benefitted from affordable consumer credit. A new initiative will empower 400,000 youth with credit access by July.
Tinubu called for bipartisan cooperation on job creation and industrial development. He urged lawmakers to pass innovative bills to improve food security and support the “Nigeria First” economic vision.
To honour sacrifices made for democracy, President Tinubu conferred national honours on several late and living heroes, including Prof. Wole Soyinka, Chief Bola Ige, and Ken Saro-Wiwa and the Ogoni Nine.
“The struggle for democracy was never for one group alone,” he said. “It was pan-Nigerian and must continue to be so as we strive to perfect it.”
The President emphasized security, revealing improved inter-agency cooperation and investments in technology and training to secure lives and property nationwide.
He praised the Armed Forces for their sacrifice, saying their bravery underpins Nigeria’s continued peace and democratic stability.
To boost productivity, President Tinubu listed ongoing efforts in tax reforms, infrastructure development, and support for SMEs through initiatives like the National Credit Guarantee Company and diaspora financial inclusion.
He ended by decorating presiding officers of the National Assembly with national honours, urging all leaders to recommit to the ideals of June 12—freedom, accountability, and good governance.
RN