Leaders Emphasize Democracy as Pathway to National Unity and Prosperity
As Nigeria commemorated the 2026 Democracy Day, marking the anniversary of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, prominent leaders from across the country reaffirmed their commitment to democracy as the nation’s strongest pathway to unity, stability, and national prosperity. The event, which celebrated the 32nd anniversary of the annulled poll, saw messages from key figures including the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof Nentawe Yilwatda, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
A Celebration of Resilience and Democratic Values
Prof Nentawe Yilwatda, in a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media and Information Strategy, Abimbola Tooki, extended greetings to Nigerians on the occasion of Democracy Day. He urged citizens to reflect on the significance of June 12 and recommit themselves to the ideals of unity, patriotism, good governance, and national development.
“June 12 is one of the most important dates in Nigeria’s democratic journey, representing the courage and sacrifice of countless patriots who stood firmly for justice, electoral integrity, and the sovereignty of the Nigerian people,” Yilwatda said.
He emphasized that Democracy Day is not merely another public holiday but a solemn reminder of the collective struggle for freedom, representative government, and the right of every Nigerian to determine the destiny of the nation through democratic means.
“Democracy Day is a celebration of resilience, hope, and the enduring belief that the people’s voice must always prevail,” he added.
Yilwatda stressed that democracy has provided Nigeria with the platform for peaceful political participation, greater accountability, protection of fundamental rights, and opportunities for citizens to contribute meaningfully to nation-building.
Calls for Collective Responsibility
The APC chairman called on political leaders, civil society organizations, the media, religious institutions, youth groups, and all stakeholders to promote dialogue, tolerance, respect for the rule of law, and peaceful engagement in the democratic process.
He further urged Nigerians to continue supporting the bold economic and institutional reforms being implemented by President Bola Tinubu, noting that meaningful national transformation often requires difficult but necessary decisions.
Economic Reforms Under Scrutiny
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu highlighted key policy decisions made by the Tinubu administration, including the removal of fuel subsidy, exchange rate unification, and the floating of the naira, which have significantly altered Nigeria’s economic direction.
“The removal of fuel subsidy by the administration of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has marked a turning point in the nation’s economic direction,” Sanwo-Olu stated.
He described the reforms as “brave and courageous steps” that were restoring investor confidence and strengthening macroeconomic stability. He also pointed to infrastructure projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, Sokoto-Badagry Highway, rail developments, and power initiatives as evidence of balanced national development.
Sanwo-Olu also highlighted social investment programmes such as the Student Loan Scheme, Consumer Credit Corporation, and initiatives supporting digital enterprises and small businesses, saying they were expanding opportunities for Nigerians.
Reflecting on June 12, the governor paid tribute to the late Chief MKO Abiola and other pro-democracy activists, describing the annulled 1993 election as a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
He urged Nigerians to reject divisive narratives, particularly on insecurity, and instead support national unity and security agencies.
“We must rebuff attempts to politicise insecurity because terrorists, kidnappers and other criminal groups do not discriminate based on ethnicity, religion or political affiliation,” he said.
Embracing Diversity Through Democracy
Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara echoed similar sentiments, stating that democracy remains the most effective system of government for managing Nigeria’s diversity and ensuring inclusive development.
In a goodwill message issued in Port Harcourt, Fubara said June 12 symbolises sacrifice, resilience, and the collective struggle of Nigerians for justice, freedom, and representative governance.
He paid tribute to Chief MKO Abiola, Kudirat Abiola, and other democracy heroes, noting that their sacrifices laid the foundation for Nigeria’s democratic journey.
“Our democratic journey has not been without difficulties, but the resilience of our institutions and the determination of our people have kept the nation moving forward,” he said.
Fubara stressed that Nigeria’s diversity should be seen as a strength rather than a weakness, adding that democracy provides the platform for inclusion, consensus-building, and sustainable development.
“Nigeria’s diversity should never be seen as a weakness. Properly harnessed, it is our greatest asset,” he said.
A Shared Vision for the Future
The Rivers governor commended President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly efforts aimed at economic recovery, security improvement, and institutional strengthening. He reaffirmed Rivers State’s readiness to partner with the Federal Government in delivering development across infrastructure, education, healthcare, job creation, and good governance.
Fubara also called on Nigerians to deepen their commitment to democratic values such as accountability, tolerance, transparency, and respect for the rule of law.
“Democracy must not be viewed merely as a periodic electoral exercise. It must be reflected in our daily commitment to accountability, transparency, tolerance, justice, respect for the rule of law, and responsible leadership,” he said.
He urged citizens to remain united and hopeful, expressing optimism about Nigeria’s future.
“Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive, and more prosperous Nigeria,” he added.
