President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerians to continue holding his administration accountable through constructive criticism while maintaining confidence in the nation’s future and democratic institutions.
Speaking in his Democracy Day address on Friday, the President stressed that criticism and disagreement are vital elements of a healthy democracy, but warned that citizens should not allow dissatisfaction with government policies to erode their belief in Nigeria.
“Criticise me, disagree with me, but never stop believing in Nigeria,” Tinubu declared.
The President emphasized that democracy flourishes when leaders are subjected to scrutiny and citizens actively participate in public discourse. He noted that disagreement with government decisions should not translate into hopelessness about the country’s prospects.
Tinubu paid tribute to key democratic institutions, including the National Assembly, the Judiciary, the media, and civil society organisations, describing them as the “guardrails of the republic” whose responsibilities remain crucial to the survival of democracy.
Addressing these institutions, he said, “To our National Assembly, Judiciary, the Press, and Civil Society: you are the guardrails of our republic.”
He added that their role in questioning authority, defending democratic principles, and ensuring accountability remains indispensable to national development.
Ahead of the forthcoming governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun States, the President urged all stakeholders to work together to guarantee free, fair, peaceful, and credible elections.
He specifically called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, political parties, and voters to uphold the integrity of the electoral process.
“I urge INEC, security agencies, and all parties to ensure these polls are peaceful and credible. Democracy fails when citizens doubt the process,” he said.
Tinubu also delivered a message of hope to Nigerian youths, encouraging them to remain committed to the country despite prevailing economic and social challenges.
According to him, the younger generation has a critical role to play in building a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.
“Nigeria is your home and your future. Build here, code here, work here, and vote here,” the President said.
He further urged young Nigerians not to abandon the country but to contribute actively to solving its challenges and shaping its future.
“Every great nation was built by those who stayed to solve problems, not by those who abandoned ship,” he added.
The President also commended members of the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, and intelligence agencies for their sacrifices in protecting the country’s territorial integrity and maintaining internal security.
In addition, he expressed appreciation to traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community leaders for their contributions to peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and national unity.
Tinubu acknowledged that government alone cannot achieve the nation’s aspirations and called for greater collaboration among all segments of society.
“The government cannot do it alone,” he said, urging Nigerians to embrace unity, patriotism, and collective responsibility in the quest for national progress.
The Democracy Day message underscored the President’s appeal for continued civic engagement, stronger democratic institutions, peaceful elections, and renewed commitment to nation-building.
