Tinubu's Democracy Day Address: Security and Progress

On June 12, 2026, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu delivered a Democracy Day address, marking 27 years of unbroken civilian rule in Nigeria since May 29, 1999. He acknowledged the challenges faced in maintaining democracy and emphasized the need for citizens to trust the electoral process.

Tinubu urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and political parties to ensure peaceful and credible elections in the upcoming polls in Ekiti and Osun states. He announced a security emergency, approving the recruitment of 50,000 new police officers and thousands of military recruits as part of the 2026 budget, which allocates N5.41 trillion for defense and security.

Tinubu paid tribute to past heroes of democracy, including M.K.O. Abiola and Gani Fawehinmi, and recognized the ongoing security challenges posed by terrorism and banditry, particularly in Borno State.

He reiterated the government's commitment to building a prosperous nation and protecting the rights and freedoms of Nigerians.