By DAYO ADESULU
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu used Nigeria’s 2026 Democracy Day celebration to deliver one of his strongest warnings yet to terrorists, bandits and kidnappers, declaring that those who refuse to surrender will face decisive military action from the Federal Government.
Addressing Nigerians during the June 12 ceremony commemorating 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance, Tinubu said criminal groups threatening the nation’s peace have been given a final opportunity to lay down their weapons.
According to the President, the government remains committed to restoring security across the country and will not hesitate to deploy the full strength of the state against those responsible for violence and bloodshed.
Terrorists Given Last Chance
Tinubu stated that the government’s reintegration programme has already persuaded thousands of insurgents and their family members to abandon armed struggle. However, he warned that the opportunity for surrender would not remain available indefinitely.
He stressed that individuals involved in terrorism, kidnapping and banditry must either embrace peace or prepare to face overwhelming force from security agencies.
The President emphasized that national security remains at the centre of his administration’s agenda, noting that democracy cannot flourish in an atmosphere of fear and insecurity.
Record Security Spending
To strengthen the fight against violent crime, Tinubu revealed that his administration has approved the recruitment of over 50,000 additional police officers alongside thousands of military personnel.
He also announced that the Federal Government has allocated N5.41 trillion to defence and security in the 2026 budget, describing it as the largest security investment in Nigeria’s history.
The President pointed to recent military successes against insurgent groups, including operations targeting extremist strongholds in the North-East.
According to him, security forces have significantly weakened terrorist networks while reducing terror-related fatalities across the country.
Security Agencies Commended
Tinubu paid tribute to members of the Armed Forces, police and intelligence services, praising their sacrifices in protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity and democratic institutions.
He acknowledged the challenges facing the nation, including recent cases of child abductions, but expressed confidence that ongoing security operations would continue to yield positive results.
The President urged Nigerians to remain united against criminal elements, insisting that insecurity should not be viewed through ethnic, religious or regional lenses.
“Crime has no ethnicity,” he maintained, calling on citizens to support national efforts to defeat terrorism and criminality.
Appeal for Credible Elections
Beyond security matters, Tinubu called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), political parties and security agencies to ensure peaceful and transparent governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states.
He argued that public confidence in democratic processes remains essential for national stability and development.
The President also praised the National Assembly, judiciary, media and civil society organizations for their roles in safeguarding democratic governance.
Democracy Heroes to Receive National Awards
A major highlight of the Democracy Day address was Tinubu’s announcement of national honours for dozens of pro-democracy activists, journalists, political figures and military officers who played significant roles during Nigeria’s struggle for democratic rule.
Among those listed for recognition are Etsu Nupe Yahaya Abubakar, Olatunji Bello, Louis Odion, Chief Ayo Opadokun, Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin, Richard Akinnola, Major-General Ishola Williams (rtd), Femi Aborisade and several others.
The President said many of the award recipients endured persecution, imprisonment, exile and various hardships in the fight to secure the democratic freedoms Nigerians enjoy today.
According to him, the complete honours list will be officially released in the coming days.
Message to Nigerian Youth
Tinubu concluded his address with a direct appeal to young Nigerians, encouraging them to invest their talents and energy in building the country rather than abandoning it.
He urged the younger generation to participate actively in governance, innovation and nation-building, describing them as the custodians of Nigeria’s future.
As Nigeria marked its 27th consecutive year of civilian rule, the President expressed optimism that the country would overcome its security challenges and emerge stronger, more united and more prosperous.
