President Bola Tinubu has warned terrorists, kidnappers, bandits and their sponsors to surrender or face the full force of the government.
Speaking during his June 12 Democracy Day broadcast, Tinubu said security forces have made significant progress against terrorism, noting that terror-related deaths have reduced by 81 percent since 2015. He added that more than 13,000 terrorists were killed in the past year, while over 124,000 fighters and their family members have surrendered since 2023 through Operation Safe Corridor.
The president said the government would continue to offer a path for surrender, but warned that the opportunity would not last forever.
Tinubu praised Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted democracy and urged citizens to continue supporting democratic institutions. He called on electoral officials, security agencies and political parties to ensure peaceful and credible elections in Ekiti and Osun states.
Addressing young Nigerians, he encouraged them to build their future in the country by working, innovating and participating in governance.
On security, Tinubu said his administration had declared a security emergency, recruited over 50,000 police officers and increased defence spending to ₦5.41 trillion in the 2026 budget.
The president also highlighted economic reforms introduced since 2023, saying they have improved government revenues, increased investor confidence and boosted investments in key sectors such as agriculture, energy, technology, manufacturing and mining.
He noted that domestic refining capacity has improved, helping to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported petroleum products.
Tinubu acknowledged that many Nigerians are still facing economic hardship but assured citizens that his administration remains committed to reducing inflation, creating jobs, increasing food production and improving living standards.
The president reaffirmed his support for local government autonomy, arguing that stronger grassroots governance is essential for national development and security.
Reflecting on the significance of June 12, Tinubu paid tribute to the heroes of the democracy struggle, including Chief M.K.O. Abiola, Kudirat Abiola, Gani Fawehinmi and several others who fought for democratic rule in Nigeria.
He also announced national honours for dozens of individuals who played significant roles in the June 12 struggle and disclosed that the full honours list would be released in the coming days.
Tinubu urged Nigerians to remain united and hopeful, stressing that the country’s diversity remains one of its greatest strengths. He called on citizens to work together to secure prosperity and build a more peaceful and prosperous nation.
