President Bola Tinubu delivers his 2026 Democracy Day speech in a nationwide broadcast, commemorating June 12 and presenting a review of Nigeria’s democratic experience since May 29, 1999. In the speech, he says Nigerians have chosen leaders through elections and resolved political differences through courts and legislative processes rather than violence, calling the period of civilian rule a historic achievement.

Tinubu also links democracy with security, describing the abduction of children in Oyo and Borno as a factor shaping this year’s mood. He says the administration declares a security emergency, supports recruitment to expand the police and military, and allocates major funding in the 2026 budget toward defence and security. He highlights counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency measures, stating that terrorist deaths have fallen since 2015 and that thousands of terrorists have been neutralised, while also noting a surrender programme under Operation Safe Corridor.

The president urges electoral authorities, security agencies and political parties to ensure upcoming elections in Ekiti and Osun are peaceful and credible, and he calls on institutions including the National Assembly, judiciary, press and civil society to help safeguard the republic. He additionally references economic reforms and pledges continued efforts to deliver “dividends of democracy” to Nigerians.