…Confers National Honours on Soyinka, Kudirat, Falana, Others
Abuja — June 12, 2025
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a landmark Democracy Day address delivered at a joint session of the National Assembly, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to multiparty democracy, economic revitalization, youth empowerment, and national security.
Nigeria Not Becoming a One-Party State
Dismissing fears about Nigeria sliding into a one-party system, President Tinubu assured lawmakers and the nation that his government upholds democratic plurality.
“A one-party state is not in the offing, nor should it ever be. I stood against it in 2003, and I still do,” he said.
This statement comes on the heels of increasing defections of opposition governors to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), sparking public concern.
Honouring the Heroes of Democracy
In a show of gratitude and remembrance, President Tinubu conferred national honours on individuals who contributed immensely to Nigeria’s democratic journey, particularly during the June 12, 1993 crisis.
Posthumous awards included:
- GCFR to the late Shehu Musa Yar’Adua
- GCON to Chief Anthony Enahoro
- CFR to Alhaja Kudirat Abiola
- CON to Prof. Humphrey Nwosu and Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu
Living awardees included:
- Prof. Wole Soyinka (GCON)
- Femi Falana (CON)
- Bishop Matthew Kukah (CON)
- Kunle Ajibade and Dapo Olorunyomi (both OON)
He described them as “champions of justice, democracy, and freedom.”
Economic Gains and Growth
On the economic front, Tinubu highlighted key indicators showing recovery and resilience. He announced that Nigeria’s GDP grew by 4.6% in the fourth quarter of 2024 — the highest quarterly growth rate in over a decade.
He credited the progress to bold reforms, including:
- Removal of fuel subsidies
- Exchange rate unification
- Credit access expansion
- Increased internally generated revenue
“We are laying the foundation for a stronger, more inclusive economy,” the president said, noting that over 100,000 Nigerians, including civil servants, now benefit from the consumer credit scheme.
Boosting Youths and Digital Infrastructure
In line with his “Renewed Hope” agenda, Tinubu unveiled plans to launch the CREDICORP credit scheme in July 2025, targeting 400,000 youths, including NYSC members.
“The youth are our future. We must support their dreams with capital,” he declared.
He also announced the rollout of a nationwide fibre optic backbone to support the digital economy, improve internet access, and position Nigerian youth in the global tech ecosystem.
Security and National Stability
President Tinubu addressed security challenges and reassured Nigerians of ongoing improvements.
He said Nigeria’s armed forces have dismantled terrorist camps, reclaimed lost territories, and restored peace to several conflict-prone regions. He attributed the successes to better intelligence coordination, new technologies, and increased funding for the military.
“We are equipping our forces and restoring calm. The storm is fading,” he said.
Defending Free Speech and Legislative Independence
In a passionate defence of civil liberties, Tinubu emphasized the sanctity of free speech—even when directed at him.
“Call me names, insult me, but I will defend your right to do so,” he said to applause.
He warned lawmakers and public officials against suppressing dissent, saying, “Democracy dies in silence.” He lauded the National Assembly for resisting anti-democratic tendencies in the past and preserving the rule of law.
“You are the people’s authors of law; I am their faithful implementer,” Tinubu concluded.
As Nigeria marked another year of civilian rule, the president’s address underscored his administration’s focus on democratic values, economic reform, national unity, and inclusive growth.
