‘Our Democracy Is Not Perfect, but It Is Ours’ – Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu on Friday described Nigeria’s democracy as imperfect but worth defending in his Democracy Day address to the nation.

“For 27 years, since May 29, 1999, Nigerians have chosen their leaders through the ballot, witnessed peaceful transitions of power, and resolved disagreements in courtrooms and legislative chambers, not through violence,” Tinubu said.

“We have experienced the longest stretch of civilian rule in our history. Our democracy is not perfect, but it is ours, and we must continue to defend and strengthen it.”

The president urged the National Assembly, judiciary, press and civil society to serve as the guard rails of the republic.

“Criticise me, disagree with me, but never stop believing in Nigeria,” he told the nation.

Tinubu appealed to young Nigerians to stay and build their country.

“Nigeria is your home. Build here, work here, and food here,” he said.

“Every great nation was built by those who stayed to solve problems, not by those who abandoned ship.”

The president acknowledged that the mood of this year’s celebration was dampened by the abduction of schoolchildren.

“Though this year’s mood is dampened by the abduction of our children, we remain hopeful for their safe return,” he said.

Tinubu also issued a stern warning to bandits, kidnappers and sponsors of terror, saying the window for surrender will not remain open forever.

“Surrender or face the full force of the Nigerian state. No mercy will be shown to those who trade in the blood of Nigerians,” he said.

He noted that over 4,000 fighters and their dependents had laid down arms since 2023 through Operation Safe Corridor.

The president paid tribute to patriots who endured persecution, imprisonment, exile and death so that future generations could enjoy democracy.

He saluted labour leaders, journalists, activists, students, women, professionals and political leaders for their patriotic contributions.