Month: June 2025

Abuja, June 12, 2025 — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday addressed a joint session of the National Assembly to mark Nigeria’s 26th year of unbroken democracy, using the occasion to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to democratic values, economic reforms, national unity, and inclusive governance. In a landmark speech delivered before lawmakers, the President honoured the sacrifices of past and present heroes of democracy and outlined his administration’s achievements and policy directions. “Nigeria Will Never Be a One-Party State” — Tinubu Amid growing speculation over political defections and consolidation of power by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Tinubu dismissed rumours that his government is seeking to establish a one-party state. “At no time in the past, nor any instance in the present, and at no future juncture shall I view the notion of a one-party state as good for Nigeria,” Tinubu declared, adding that history would not allow him to repeat the mistakes of political overreach. He acknowledged the recent defections of opposition members into the APC but stressed that parties should focus on fixing internal issues rather than “conjuring up demons.” Tribute to Democracy Heroes In a major highlight of the speech, Tinubu posthumously conferred national honours on notable figures of the pro-democracy struggle, including Kudirat Abiola, Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, Ken Saro-Wiwa and the Ogoni 9, among many others. He also extended full presidential pardons to the Ogoni Nine, stating that their sacrifice must not be forgotten. “In this light, I announce the conferment of the posthumous national honour of CFR on Kudirat Abiola, the heroine of the June 12 struggle,” Tinubu said. Living icons including Prof. Wole Soyinka, Bishop Matthew Kukah, and human rights lawyer Femi Falana were also honoured. Democracy Must Defend Free Speech The President emphasized the importance of civil liberties, tolerance of dissent, and a free press, declaring that democracy must not be afraid of “harsh words and stinging insults.” “Call me names… I will still call upon democracy to defend your right to do so,” he stated. Economic Progress and Social Interventions Reviewing the economy, Tinubu highlighted GDP growth of 3.4% in 2024 and a 4.6% surge in Q4—the highest in a decade. He cited stabilised exchange rates, a fivefold increase in foreign reserves, and improving inflation trends. The President announced an expansion of consumer credit initiatives through CREDICORP, aimed at reaching 400,000 young Nigerians starting July. He also pledged increased investment in education, youth employment, and digital infrastructure. “We are committed to giving more opportunities to young people through job creation and skills development,” he noted, referencing programs like NELFUND and a nationwide fibre optic rollout. Legislative Cooperation and Tax Reforms Tinubu called for continued legislative collaboration to pass innovative laws to boost industrialization, food security, and inclusive growth. He praised the National Assembly for its bipartisan work on the Tax Reform Package, which is poised to streamline administration and reduce multiple taxation. He also introduced the National Credit Guarantee Company with ₦100 billion capital and emphasized the importance of transparency through a new Tax Ombudsman Office. Security and National Unity On national security, Tinubu assured Nigerians of improved coordination and intelligence across agencies. He saluted the Armed Forces for their courage, urging continued support for their role in protecting national sovereignty. “Our highways are safer… we invest in technology and training to secure every inch of this country,” he said. Closing: A Call to Renew Democratic Ideals President Tinubu concluded with a passionate appeal for unity, good governance, and national rebirth. “Let us rededicate ourselves to the ideals of June 12—freedom, transparent and accountable government, social justice, and a just society where no one is oppressed.” End of Report

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred national honours on several distinguished Nigerians in recognition of their roles in promoting democracy, human rights, literature, and national development. The honours were announced during the 2025 Democracy Day celebrations held at a special Joint Session of the National Assembly on Wednesday, June 12. Among the top honourees was the late Kudirat Abiola, posthumously awarded the title of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) for her sacrifice in the pro-democracy struggle following the annulled 1993 presidential election. Others awarded the CFR include former Attorney General Bola Ige and Afenifere leader Pa Reuben Fasoranti. Veteran journalist Bayo Onanuga, human rights lawyer Femi Falana, activist and former senator Shehu Sani, and democracy advocate Nurudeen Olowokere were honoured with the title of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON). Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka and respected columnist Prof. Olatunji Dare received the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON)—Nigeria’s second-highest national honour. President Tinubu praised the honourees for their commitment to justice and democracy, stating: “These men and women have paid the price, used their voice, pen, and courage to shape the democratic space we now enjoy.” Full citations and further award details are expected to be released soon.

Some residents of Ikorodu, a Lagos suburb, have urged the state government to limit the Oro festival to nighttime hours, citing its disruptive impact on daily life, business activities, and citizens’ rights—especially those of women. In interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday, residents expressed concern over the daytime curfews imposed during the traditional celebration, which forbids women and non-indigenes from being outdoors or witnessing the festival under threat of severe consequences. Mrs. Bukunmi Taiwo, a 40-year resident, called for cultural reform and community dialogue. “The world is changing, and our practices must adapt. Many families rely on daily income. Daytime curfews hurt them deeply,” she said. Obinna Nweze, a trader at Ladega Market, decried frequent market closures. “This year alone, we’ve closed over five times. It’s emotionally and financially draining,” he lamented. Legal expert Mr. Mustafa Mohammed emphasized constitutional rights, urging government action to uphold freedom of movement and gender equality. Gender advocate Mrs. Cecilia Oluwadarasinmi stressed that over 85% of Nigerian women work in the informal sector. “While cultural preservation is vital, it must not override public welfare or promote gender-based discrimination,” she said. The Oro festival, observed twice yearly in Ikorodu and other communities, remains a deeply rooted Yoruba tradition. Despite its spiritual significance, many now call for a more inclusive approach that aligns with modern values and human rights.

Former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Attahiru Jega, has called for the mandatory electronic transmission of election results in Nigeria. Speaking in commemoration of Democracy Day on June 12, Jega emphasized that strengthening the electoral process requires transparency and real-time result transmission. He noted that electronic collation would reduce manipulation and build public confidence in the democratic system. Jega, who led INEC during the landmark 2015 general elections, stressed that integrating technology into Nigeria’s electoral framework is crucial for credible elections and democratic consolidation.