Nigeria's Unity, Stability Hinge on Democracy, Say APC Leaders

As Nigeria marked the 2026 Democracy Day, commemorating the June 12, 1993, presidential election, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Prof Nentawe Yilwatda, and governors of Lagos and Rivers states, Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Siminalayi Fubara, respectively, emphasized that democracy remains the country's strongest pathway to unity, stability, and national prosperity.

In a Democracy Day message, Yilwatda reflected on the significance of June 12, describing it as a solemn reminder of the collective struggle for freedom, representative government, and the right of every Nigerian to determine the destiny of the nation through democratic means.

He urged citizens to recommit themselves to the ideals of unity, patriotism, good governance, and national development, adding that democracy has provided Nigeria with the platform for peaceful political participation, greater accountability, protection of fundamental rights, and opportunities for citizens to contribute meaningfully to nation-building.

Yilwatda also called on political leaders, civil society organisations, the media, religious institutions, youth groups, and all stakeholders to promote dialogue, tolerance, respect for the rule of law, and peaceful engagement in the democratic process.

Sanwo-Olu, in his message, highlighted the key policy decisions of President Bola Tinubu's administration, including the removal of fuel subsidy, exchange rate unification, and the floating of the naira, which have significantly altered Nigeria's economic direction and are already yielding positive indicators.

He described the reforms as brave and courageous steps that are restoring investor confidence and strengthening macroeconomic stability, while also pointing to infrastructure projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, Sokoto-Badagry Highway, rail developments, and power initiatives as evidence of balanced national development.

Fubara, in a goodwill message, said democracy remains the most effective system of government for managing Nigeria's diversity and ensuring inclusive development.

He paid tribute to Chief MKO Abiola, Kudirat Abiola, and other democracy heroes, noting that their sacrifices laid the foundation for Nigeria's democratic journey.

Fubara stressed that Nigeria's diversity should be seen as a strength rather than a weakness, adding that democracy provides the platform for inclusion, consensus-building, and sustainable development.

He commended President Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly efforts aimed at economic recovery, security improvement, and institutional strengthening, and reaffirmed Rivers State's readiness to partner with the Federal Government in delivering development across infrastructure, education, healthcare, job creation, and good governance.

The governors and the APC chairman all urged Nigerians to continue supporting the bold economic and institutional reforms being implemented by the Tinubu administration, noting that meaningful national transformation often requires difficult but necessary decisions.