First Lady Oluremi Tinubu said yesterday that democracy can only thrive when the rights, dignity and freedoms of citizens are respected and protected.
The First Lady, in a message commemorating the 2026 International Day of Democracy, also called on Nigerians to work collectively towards strengthening the country’s democratic institutions.
This year’s International Day of Democracy, marked on September 15, has the theme, ‘Bring Human Rights into Focus.’
‘The International Day of Democracy 2026, with the theme ‘Bring Human Rights into Focus,’ reminds us that democracy thrives when the rights, dignity, and freedoms of every citizen are respected and protected’, Senator Tinubu said.
The First Lady noted that Nigeria had recorded significant democratic progress since independence, particularly during more than 25 years of uninterrupted civilian rule.
She identified stronger institutions, peaceful transitions of power and increased participation of citizens in governance as some of the gains recorded by the country.
‘Sixty-five (65) years after independence and over twenty-five (25) years of uninterrupted democratic rule, Nigeria has made significant progress through stronger institutions, peaceful transitions of power and greater citizen participation in governance’, the First Lady said.
Senator Tinubu, however, stressed the need for continued collective efforts to consolidate the gains and ensure that democracy delivers peace and prosperity to Nigerians.
She urged citizens and other stakeholders to remain committed to strengthening the country’s democratic system and making it more responsive to the interests and aspirations of the people.
‘Let us collectively continue to work together to strengthen our democracy, ensure that it serves the interests of all Nigerians, and build a more peaceful and prosperous nation.”