By Chesa Chesa
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday issued a strong warning to terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal elements, declaring that the window for surrender would not remain open indefinitely.
In his Democracy Day nationwide broadcast marking 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule, Tinubu warned that those who continue to threaten Nigeria’s peace and security would face the full force of the state.
“To bandits, kidnappers and sponsors of terror: surrender or face the full force of the Nigerian State. These windows of surrender will not remain open forever. No mercy will be shown to those who trade in the blood of Nigerians,” the President declared.
Tinubu’s warning came as he reassured Nigerians of his administration’s determination to defeat insecurity, strengthen democratic institutions, and drive economic reforms aimed at improving citizens’ welfare.
Addressing the security situation, the President expressed concern over the abduction of schoolchildren in Oyo State and Borno State, but maintained that government operations against terrorists and criminal groups were producing measurable results.
He disclosed that his administration had declared a security emergency and approved the recruitment of more than 50,000 police officers alongside thousands of military recruits to reinforce security operations nationwide.
According to him, the 2026 budget allocated N5.41 trillion to defence and security, the largest security allocation in Nigeria’s history.
Tinubu said military operations had significantly weakened terrorist networks, revealing that security forces recently degraded the command centre of Islamic State West Africa Province in Arege, Borno State.
He noted that terror-related deaths had declined by 81 percent since 2015, while more than 13,000 terrorists had been neutralised in the past year.
The President also highlighted the success of the government’s deradicalisation programme, stating that over 124,000 fighters and their dependents had surrendered since 2023 through Operation Safe Corridor.
Beyond security, Tinubu reflected on Nigeria’s democratic journey, describing 27 years of uninterrupted civilian rule as a major milestone in the country’s history.
“Our democracy is not perfect, but it is ours, and we must continue to defend and strengthen it,” he said.
Ahead of governorship elections in Ekiti State and Osun State, Tinubu urged the Independent National Electoral Commission, security agencies, and political parties to ensure peaceful and credible polls.
He also called on young Nigerians to remain committed to nation-building through innovation, enterprise, and civic participation.
On the economy, Tinubu defended his administration’s reform agenda, insisting that the policies introduced since 2023 were necessary to stabilise public finances, restore investor confidence, and lay the foundation for long-term prosperity.
He said the reforms had improved federation revenues, enhanced fiscal transparency, and attracted investments into agriculture, energy, manufacturing, mining, transportation, technology, and the creative sector.
The President acknowledged the economic hardship facing many Nigerians but assured citizens that his administration remained focused on reducing inflation, expanding food production, creating jobs, and improving living standards.
“We are moving from uncertainty to stability. The next phase is about accelerating growth and ensuring the benefits are felt in every home,” he said.
Tinubu stressed that democracy must deliver tangible benefits to ordinary Nigerians.
“Democracy must be felt in the pocket,” he added.
As part of Democracy Day commemorations, the President honoured heroes of the June 12 struggle, including Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, Kudirat Abiola, and Gani Fawehinmi, describing their sacrifices as the foundation of the democratic freedoms Nigerians enjoy today.
He also announced national honours for several pro-democracy activists, journalists, political leaders, and military officers who played vital roles in the June 12 struggle.
Concluding his address, Tinubu urged Nigerians to remain united and hopeful despite prevailing challenges.
“The road ahead is steep. But June 12 reminds us: Nigerians do not break. We bend, we bleed, but we do not break,” he said.
