President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for greater collaboration between the executive and legislative arms of government, pledging unwavering commitment to democratic ideals and national unity.
He announced it in a stirring address to the National Assembly on Thursday, June 12, during the commemoration of Nigeria’s Democracy Day anniversary.
He praised former President Muhammadu Buhari for officially recognising June 12 as Democracy Day and acknowledging Chief MKO Abiola and Baba Gana Kingibe as the rightful winners of the 1993 election.#TinubuSpeech #NigeriaDemocracy #NationalAssembly
— Voice of Nigeria (@voiceofnigeria) June 12, 2025
Describing the ongoing quest for a truly inclusive Pan-Nigerian identity, the president emphasised that the concept continues to evolve, stating, “Pan-Nigeria, in this conception, has been given even more meaning as we strive to perfect it.”
Addressing lawmakers directly, he acknowledged the importance of their role, saying, “You are the authors of the people’s law, and I must be their faithful implementer.” He called for bipartisan cooperation, noting that while disagreements may arise, democratic governance requires collective effort.
“I pledge myself to this cooperation,” he declared, urging lawmakers to do the same “for the good people of our country.”
Highlighting the pivotal role of the legislature throughout Nigeria’s history, the president praised the National Assembly’s past efforts to uphold constitutional integrity.
He referenced the Fifth National Assembly’s rejection of constitutional amendments in 2006 that could have undermined democracy and the invocation of the Doctrine of Necessity in 2010 that paved the way for then-Vice President Goodluck Jonathan to assume the role of acting president.
The president also paid tribute to legislators who stood up to military rule, recalling how, after the dissolution of the National Assembly in 1993 by General Sani Abacha, members of the defunct Third Republic, led by Senate President Ameh Ebute, defied the junta by reconvening in Lagos and declaring the regime illegal, actions for which they were jailed.
“On behalf of a grateful nation,” the President concluded, “I commend your invaluable role in lawmaking, oversight, and consistent representation.”
The speech was received with a standing ovation from members of both chambers, signalling a renewed commitment to democratic cooperation and national progress.