Tinubu Defends Economic Reforms in Democracy Day Address

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu delivered a Democracy Day address on June 12, 2026, framing his administration's economic reforms as a necessary transition from political freedom to economic prosperity. He argued that while the June 12, 1993, election secured democracy, the current generation must now secure economic freedom to rescue the nation from fiscal strain and uncertainty.

Tinubu claimed his policies have restored stability, increased federation revenues, and boosted investor confidence in technology, agriculture, and energy. He specifically highlighted an increase in domestic refining capacity to decrease dependence on imported petroleum products and urged Nigerians to prioritize national unity over division.

A significant portion of the address focused on the electricity sector. Tinubu detailed the Electricity Act, which decentralizes power by granting states authority over generation, transmission, and distribution. To address systemic failures, the Presidential Power Sector Task Force is authorized to raise a N4 trillion bond to settle legacy debts and reduce a metering deficit exceeding four million.

Further infrastructure efforts include the deployment of over 1,000 off-grid and mini-grid solar projects. Led by the Rural Electrification Agency with support from the World Bank and the African Development Bank, these initiatives target hospitals, universities, and underserved communities.