By Ayomide Otitoju
President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to continue holding his administration accountable, insisting that constructive criticism is a core requirement of democratic governance.
In a Democracy Day message on Friday, the President said disagreement with those in authority should not lead to despair about the country’s future.
“Criticise me, disagree with me, but never stop believing in Nigeria,” Tinubu said.
He described the National Assembly, the judiciary, the media, and civil society organisations as the “guardrails of our republic,” stressing that their role in checking power and defending democratic values remains indispensable.
“To our National Assembly, Judiciary, the Press, and Civil Society: you are the guardrails of our republic,” he said.
Tinubu maintained that democracy thrives on scrutiny, debate, and robust public engagement, provided citizens remain committed to the Nigerian project.
Ahead of the forthcoming governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun States, the President urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and political actors to ensure peaceful and credible polls, warning that democracy is undermined when public trust in the electoral process is eroded.
He also addressed Nigerian youths, encouraging them to remain committed to building the country despite prevailing challenges.
“Nigeria is your home and your future. Build here, code here, work here, and vote here,” he said, adding that “every great nation was built by those who stayed to solve problems, not by those who abandoned ship.”
Tinubu commended the armed forces, police, and intelligence services for their sacrifices in safeguarding national security, while also appreciating traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community heads for their contributions to peace and reconciliation.
He stressed that national progress requires collective effort, noting that “the government cannot do it alone.”
