By Fatima Saka
Abuja, June 12, 2026 — President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to renew their national covenant, pledging that the sacrifices of past heroes must not be in vain and reaffirming commitment to democratic governance anchored on the will of the people.
“Let us renew our covenant: That the labours of our heroes past shall never be in vain, and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from this land,” Tinubu declared in his Democracy Day address on Friday.
During the live broadcast, the President stressed that the present generation must take responsibility for securing economic prosperity, just as earlier generations fought for independence and democracy, urging citizens to work collectively towards a more united and progressive nation.
He noted that Nigeria has sustained 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule since 1999, describing it as the longest stretch of civilian governance in the country’s history, achieved through elections, peaceful transitions, and adherence to the rule of law.
Tinubu called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and political stakeholders to ensure credible and peaceful elections in Ekiti and Osun states, warning that public trust is critical to democratic success.
He also urged the National Assembly, judiciary, media, and civil society to continue playing their roles as custodians of democracy by holding leaders accountable while maintaining faith in the nation.
Addressing youths, Tinubu encouraged them to remain in the country and contribute to its development, emphasising that Nigeria’s future depends on their innovation, participation, and resilience.
On security, the President acknowledged ongoing challenges, including recent abductions in parts of the country, but assured Nigerians of intensified efforts to combat terrorism and banditry through increased funding, recruitment, and strategic military operations.
He revealed that terror-related deaths have significantly declined, while thousands of insurgents have been neutralised or surrendered under government programmes aimed at restoring peace.
Tinubu further highlighted key economic reforms introduced since 2023, noting improvements in fiscal management, rising revenues, and renewed investor confidence across sectors such as agriculture, energy, manufacturing, and technology.
He said initiatives in the power sector, infrastructure development, and agricultural expansion are aimed at improving productivity, creating jobs, and enhancing living standards, although he admitted that many Nigerians still face economic hardship.
The President paid tribute to heroes of the June 12 struggle, including Chief M.K.O. Abiola and other pro-democracy advocates, recognising their sacrifices in securing Nigeria’s democratic freedoms.
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He also announced plans to confer national honours on several individuals and disclosed the renaming of the Institute of Petroleum Studies in Kaduna after General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua.
Tinubu concluded by reaffirming Nigeria’s resilience and unity, expressing optimism that the country will overcome its challenges and achieve sustainable growth.
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