Tinubu Urges Nigerian Leaders To Maintain Inclusivity, Accountability, And Transparency

President Bola Tinubu urged Nigerian leaders to ensure inclusivity, accountability and transparency by recommitting to the values on Democracy Day.

The president noted that Nigeria completed 25 years of uninterrupted democracy and now, it was time for Nigerians to partake in building a nation, where everyone's voice was heard, and every potential was taken seriously.

Speaking at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Tuesday during the 2024 Democracy Day Lecture, Tinubu said that irrespective of the background, the nation's democratic journey depended on every citizen of this country.

"Our progress has been marked by both triumphs and trials, each serving as a reminder of the preciousness of our democratic principles," the president said, as per the State House website.

He went on to share that Nigerian leaders should recommit to the values of inclusivity, accountability, and transparency, ensuring that our democracy not only endured, but flourished for generations to come.

"The future of Nigeria lies in our hands, in our ability to dream, innovate, and act with courage and conviction. Let us embrace this moment with a renewed sense of purpose, knowing that the path we tread today will shape the Nigeria of tomorrow," he said.

"This is an invitation for each of us to participate in building a nation where every voice is heard, where every potential is realized, and where every citizen is empowered to contribute to the collective good."

Tinubu acknowledged that Nigeria's democratic experience has been filled with lows and highs, but, he added, that the country has progressed as it serves everyone without discriminating against any group.

He noted that Nigerians should remember the principles that motivated the founders of the country to build a diverse nation, despite the doubts of those who predicted failure.

"It is through their energy, creativity, and commitment that we will build a Nigeria that stands resilient against the challenges of tomorrow. Let us therefore pledge to create an environment where every Nigerian, regardless of background, has the opportunity to contribute to our shared destiny," he said.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan, who served as the chairman of this event, said that the return to civil rule in 1999 started a new era of national unity, peace, and progress. He went on to highlight some achievements over the past 25 years, including economic growth, infrastructure development and peaceful political transitions.