Democracy Day: ‘Criticise Me, But Never Stop Believing in Nigeria’ — Tinubu Declares as He Unveils Massive Security Expansion

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Nigerians not to lose faith in the country despite its numerous challenges, declaring that criticism of his administration is welcome but belief in Nigeria’s future must remain unwavering.

Speaking during his Democracy Day address on Thursday, the President delivered a message of hope, unity and determination, while outlining his administration’s efforts to combat insecurity, strengthen democratic institutions and create opportunities for young Nigerians.

“Criticise me, disagree with me, but never stop believing in Nigeria,” Tinubu said, describing patriotism and national unity as essential ingredients for the country’s progress.

The President devoted a significant portion of his speech to security, assuring Nigerians that his government remains committed to ending terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes threatening communities across the nation.

Addressing the recent abductions of schoolchildren and teachers in parts of the country, including Oyo and Borno states, Tinubu said security agencies were intensifying operations against criminal groups.

He also cautioned Nigerians against ethnic profiling and attempts to associate criminality with any particular ethnic group.

“Crime has no ethnicity. Let us not assign blame or point fingers,” he stated.

In one of the strongest warnings contained in the speech, the President issued an ultimatum to bandits, kidnappers and terror sponsors, urging them to surrender or face decisive military action.

“To bandits, kidnappers and sponsors of terror, surrender now or face the full force of the Nigerian state. This window of surrender will not remain open forever. No mercy will be shown to those who trade in the blood of Nigerians,” Tinubu declared.

The President revealed that more than 124,000 terrorists and their dependents have surrendered over the past three years through military offensives and government deradicalisation initiatives, describing the development as evidence that the fight against insurgency is yielding results.

To further strengthen security nationwide, Tinubu announced plans to recruit more than 50,000 additional police officers as well as thousands of military personnel.

According to him, expanding the nation’s security workforce is necessary to protect lives, secure communities and consolidate democratic gains.

“Democracy without security is not solid enough,” the President said.

Tinubu also delivered a passionate message to Nigerian youths, urging them to see the country as a land of opportunity rather than abandoning it in search of greener pastures abroad.

“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,” he said.

The President stressed that his administration remains committed to creating an environment where young people can thrive through investments in technology, education, entrepreneurship and job creation.

As part of the Democracy Day celebrations, Tinubu conferred national honours on several Nigerians whom he described as heroes of democracy who endured persecution and sacrifices in the struggle for democratic governance.

Among those honoured were Ralph Obiora, Joe Okei-Odumakin, Joe Igbokwe, Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd), Col. Musa Shehu, Muyiwa Adekeye, Babajide Kolade-Otitoju, Osa Director and George Mbah, among others.

The President said their contributions helped shape modern democratic Nigeria and deserved national recognition.

In another major announcement, Tinubu approved the renaming and revitalisation of the Institute of Petroleum Studies in Kaduna as the General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua University of Geological Sciences and Engineering Technology.

He said the move was in honour of the late General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua for his contributions to the growth of democracy and national development.

Concluding his address, Tinubu called on Nigerians to remain united and optimistic, insisting that despite present difficulties, the country is on a path toward greater security, stability and prosperity.

He urged citizens to continue supporting democratic institutions and working together to build a stronger nation.

“Nigeria’s best days are ahead of us,” the President said.