By Oyinkansayo Wole-Bodunde.
President Bola Tinubu addressed a joint session of the National Assembly to commemorate Democracy Day.
He emphasized the importance of a multi-party system. He dismissed concerns about Nigeria drifting towards a one-party state, stating his own history of fighting against authoritarianism.
Tinubu mentioned his role in shaping Nigeria’s democratic foundation and his commitment to pluralism. He said, “A one-party state is not in the offing. Nor should it ever be.”
He welcomed defectors from opposition parties, including Governors Sheriff Oborevwori and Pastor Umo Eno. He urged them to focus on internal reforms rather than fearing a non-existent threat.
The President outlined his administration’s economic achievements, including a 3.4% GDP growth in 2024 and a 4.6% increase in the last quarter. He announced plans to empower 400,000 young Nigerians with consumer credit and stated his commitment to job creation, skill development, and digital connectivity.
Tinubu emphasized the importance of tolerance and open discourse in democracy. He said, “Call me any name. I am not here to make you happy politically. But I will call upon democracy to defend your right to do so.”
The President declared that Nigeria’s democracy, though imperfect, remains strong and worth fighting for. He said, “Our democracy is not invincible, but it is alive, and this means our dream of a prosperous, happy nation is still within reach.”
Senate President Godswill Akpabio praised Tinubu for transforming Nigeria through democratic reforms and national leadership. He hailed him as a “veteran of the trenches of the fight for democracy” and “a symbol of democratic resistance.”
