President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appealed to young Nigerians not to abandon the country in search of opportunities abroad, urging them instead to contribute to building a stronger and more prosperous nation.
Speaking during his Democracy Day address on Friday, June 12, the President said Nigeria’s progress depends on citizens who remain committed to solving its challenges rather than leaving in difficult times.
Tinubu acknowledged that Nigeria’s democracy is still evolving but stressed that it remains a system worth protecting and strengthening.
“Our democracy is not perfect, but it is ours, and we must continue to defend and strengthen it,” he said.
The President also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, political parties, and other stakeholders to ensure peaceful and credible elections in Ekiti and Osun states, which are expected to hold governorship polls in the coming months.
“Democracy fails when citizens doubt the process,” Tinubu stated.
Addressing Nigerians directly, the President encouraged constructive criticism while urging citizens not to lose faith in the country.
“Criticize me, disagree with me, but never stop believing in Nigeria,” he said.
He reserved a special message for young people, encouraging them to invest their talents and energy in the country’s future.
“To our young people, Nigeria is your home. Build here, code here, work here and vote here. Every great nation was built by those who stayed through to solve problems and not by those who abandoned the ship,” the President added.