5 Key Takeaways From President Tinubu’s Democracy Day Speech

In a monumental speech delivered on Democracy Day, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu shared his vision for Nigeria’s future and honoured the champions of democracy.

Here are the five main points from his address:

1 The ultimate sacrifice for democracy

President Tinubu reminded Nigerians of the great sacrifices made by Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola during the June 12 struggle. Furthermore, President Tinubu mentioned that the democracy Nigeria has enjoyed since 1999 was hard-earned and not freely given. The 1993 elections, despite its backlog of controversies, kickstarted the fight that led to the democracy Nigeria has today.

2. Heroes of democracy

The President honoured Chief MKO Abiola as “the most significant symbol of our democratic struggle.” He also honoured Kudirat Abiola, General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua and Pa Alfred Rewane among others who sacrificed their lives.

In addition, The President paid tribute to the “heroes of democracy” who resisted the military regime in their pursuit of a democratic government. He mentioned notable figures such as Chief Anthony Enahoro, Chief Abraham Adesanya, Commodore Dan Suleiman, Chief Arthur Nwankwo, Chief Chukwuemeka Ezeife, Chief Bola Ige, Chief Adekunle Ajasin, Chief Ayo Fasanmi, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, among many other notable names.

3. Journalists as the pro-democracy activists

The press wasn’t left out of The President’s speech as he made mention of their undying efforts towards democracy. He praised media establishments like The Guardian, The Punch, National Concord, Tribune, The News/Tempo, and TELL Magazines.

4. State of the economy and insecurity

Addressing the nation’s economic and security challenges, President Tinubu defended his administration’s reforms. He said, “The reforms we have initiated are intended to create a stronger, better foundation for future growth. There is no doubt the reforms have occasioned hardship. Yet, they are necessary repairs required to fix the economy over the long run so that everyone has access to economic opportunity, fair pay and compensation for his endeavour and labour.”

5. New minimum wage

In an act likely to be well-received, the President announced plans to submit a bill for a new minimum wage to the National Assembly soon. He said, “We shall soon send an executive bill to the National Assembly to enshrine what has been agreed upon as part of our law for the next five years or less.”

Finally, President Tinubu’s Democracy Day speech served as a reminder of the sacrifices made for democracy and a call for action for all Nigerians to support efforts to strengthen the economy and improve the quality of life for all.