President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration will intensify efforts to tackle insecurity, revealing that more than 50,000 police officers and thousands of military recruits have been engaged while ₦5.41 trillion was allocated to defence and security in the 2026 budget.
In his Democracy Day address on June 12, 2026, the President expressed concern over the abduction of children in Oyo and Borno states, but said the government remains committed to securing their safe release. He stressed that democracy cannot thrive without security and pledged continued action against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other crimes.
Tinubu said military operations had recorded significant gains against terrorist groups across the country, particularly in the North-East. He disclosed that terror-related deaths have dropped sharply since 2015, while more than 13,000 terrorists were neutralised in the past year. He added that over 124,000 fighters and their dependents had surrendered through Operation Safe Corridor since 2023.
The President warned bandits, kidnappers, and sponsors of terrorism to surrender or face the full force of the law, noting that the government’s offer of reintegration would not remain open indefinitely. He urged Nigerians to remain united, stressing that crime has no ethnic or religious identity.
While addressing the nation on Democracy Day, Tinubu said Nigeria has now enjoyed 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule since 1999. He described democracy as a collective achievement that must be protected and strengthened through peaceful elections, strong institutions, and active citizen participation.
The President also highlighted the economic reforms introduced by his administration, saying they were necessary to restore stability, improve public finances, and attract investment. According to him, government revenues have increased, investor confidence has improved, and key sectors such as agriculture, energy, manufacturing, technology, and transportation are recording growth.
Tinubu further outlined efforts to reform the electricity sector through the Electricity Act, improve infrastructure, boost agricultural production, and support small businesses. He acknowledged that many Nigerians still face economic hardship but assured citizens that his administration remains focused on reducing inflation, creating jobs, and improving living standards.
He called on young Nigerians to contribute to national development and urged political parties, security agencies, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure peaceful and credible elections in Ekiti and Osun states.
Paying tribute to the heroes of the June 12 struggle, the President honoured individuals who fought for democracy through sacrifice, imprisonment, and activism. He announced plans to confer national honours on several pro-democracy advocates and military officers who played key roles in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
Tinubu concluded by urging Nigerians to reject division and work together to build a nation where justice, security, opportunity, and prosperity are available to all, declaring that while previous generations secured independence and democracy, the current generation must secure lasting prosperity.