President Bola Tinubu says he accepts criticism by Nigerians, urging them however not to stop believing in our fear nation — Nigeria in celebrating 27 years of unbroken democracy.
The President who made the remarks in his 2026 June 12 Democracy Day national address, where he reflected on the journey of hat shaped Nigeria’s democratic journey years ago.
“To our young people: Nigeria is your home and your future. Build here, code here, work here, and vote here.
“Every great nation was built by those who stayed to solve problems, not by those who abandoned ship”, according to Tinubu.
He revealed that over 13,000 terrorists have been neutralized while 24,000 repentant terrorists have surrendered to Nigeria’s sovereignty through Operation Safe Corridor of the Nigerian military since 2023.
Tinubu however insisted that the amnesty for repentant terrorists will not be open forever, warning that “no mercy will be shown on those who trade on the blood of Nigerians”.
Tinubu particularly paid tribute to the heroes of the June 12 struggle, including Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola and Kudirat Abiola, as well as other patriots who endured persecution, exile, imprisonment and death in the fight for democracy.
He expressed concern over recent abductions in Oyo and Borno states but assured Nigerians that efforts were ongoing to secure the safe return of the victims.
On national security, Tinubu announced a security emergency and said over 50,000 police officers would be recruited, alongside increased military enlistment, to strengthen the Country’s security architecture.
The President clarified that the 2026 budget, includes N5.41 trillion for defence and security.
He issued a strong warning to criminals, saying bandits, kidnappers and their sponsors must surrender or face the full force of the law, adding that the government would no longer tolerate attacks on innocent Nigerians.
The President also stated that his economic reforms have restored credibility to our economic management.
Healthcare, security and Education and other sectors of the nation.
He said, “We have moved from training with our allies, the United States, France and other European Countries, to precision targeting.
“In Arege, Borno State, we degraded ISWAP’s command centre. Terror-related deaths are down by 81% since 2015.
“Over 13,000 terrorists have been neutralised in the past year. But we also keep the door of surrender open. Over 124,000 fighters and dependents have laid down their arms since 2023 through Operation Safe Corridor”, he said.
He also issued a stern warning to criminals, bandits, kidnappers and their sponsors must surrender or face the full force of the law, while noting that the government would no longer tolerate attacks on innocent Nigerians.
