President Tinubu Delivers Landmark Address at 2025 Democracy Day, Affirms Commitment to Unity and Reforms
Abuja, June 12, 2025 – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu addressed a joint session of the National Assembly today to mark Nigeria’s 2025 Democracy Day, delivering a stirring and comprehensive speech that reflected on Nigeria’s democratic journey and outlined key policy progress under his administration.
The President began his speech by honoring the resilience of Nigeria’s democracy since 1999, praising the sacrifices of democratic icons like Chief MKO Abiola and civil rights activists who fought against military repression. He paid special tribute to his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari, for officially recognizing June 12 as Democracy Day.
“Democracy has risen from the ashes of military rule,” Tinubu declared, while acknowledging that the journey is far from over. He reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to defend democratic principles, promote national unity, and advance economic reforms.
Addressing rumors of a one-party state, Tinubu strongly dismissed the notion, declaring: “A one-party state is not in the oven, nor should it ever be.” He welcomed opposition members defecting to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) while encouraging other political parties to examine their internal affairs instead of fearing political competition.
On the economy, Tinubu highlighted key reforms aimed at correcting structural imbalances. He noted that Nigeria’s GDP grew by 3.4% in 2024, with Q4 growth reaching 4.6%—the highest in a decade. Inflation is gradually easing, the naira has stabilized, and foreign reserves have increased fivefold. Additionally, states are no longer borrowing to pay salaries.
The President revealed that over 100,000 Nigerians, including 35,000 civil servants, have accessed affordable credit, and a new initiative will empower 400,000 youths—including corps members—with consumer credit by July 2025.
Tinubu concluded by urging national unity, bipartisan cooperation, and a collective commitment to the nation’s development, emphasizing that “democracy demands we work together.”
