President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining democratic governance in Nigeria, insisting that the country’s democratic system will endure despite current political and economic challenges.
The President made the remarks on Tuesday at the State House in Abuja while receiving a delegation from Enugu State led by Governor Peter Mbah. He said his administration remains focused on delivering on its promises to Nigerians and building a prosperous nation for future generations.
Tinubu stated that his government would continue to take deliberate steps aimed at realising what he described as the “Nigerian dream,” stressing that national development requires unity of purpose and sustained effort across all levels of governance.
According to him, democracy in Nigeria remains strong and will survive what he described as intimidation and distractions from critics. He urged supporters of his administration to remain focused on governance and ignore opposing voices that, in his view, are working against national progress.
“Democracy will survive despite all intimidation. Ignore the naysayers. Stay focused. When you succeed, and they are angry, let them be,” the President said.
He emphasised that his administration is not distracted by criticism, noting that its priority remains the welfare of citizens, economic stability, and long-term national development.
“I do not lose sleep over criticism because we are committed to building a nation of bright hope for our children,” Tinubu added.
The President also used the opportunity to criticise some opposition figures, accusing them of undermining democratic principles while publicly portraying themselves as defenders of democracy. He argued that some of the challenges currently facing the country are rooted in past policy decisions taken by previous administrations.
Tinubu specifically referenced the privatisation of the power sector, stating that it contributed significantly to Nigeria’s ongoing electricity challenges. He said earlier decisions in the sector had failed to deliver the expected improvements, leaving the country with persistent power shortages.
“These are leaders who had privatised electricity, which is not working. They gave us darkness, and we are trying to get through it,” he said.
The President maintained that his administration is working to address structural problems inherited from past governments, particularly in critical sectors such as power, infrastructure, and the economy. He noted that reforms may be difficult but are necessary for sustainable development.
Reiterating his government’s policy direction, Tinubu said the focus remains on improving the welfare of citizens, expanding economic opportunities, and ensuring inclusive growth. He stressed that governance must be centred on the people and their future prosperity.
“We stay on our lanes. We stay focused. We build our life on people, the welfare, the prosperity, and the promise of today and tomorrow,” he said.
The President also highlighted Nigeria’s economic potential, describing the country as a major force in Africa with significant opportunities for growth. He noted that contributions from various stakeholders across the country continue to strengthen Nigeria’s position on the continent.
Tinubu expressed optimism that ongoing reforms and policy initiatives would eventually yield positive results, urging Nigerians to remain patient and supportive of government efforts.
He further assured that his administration would remain committed to democratic principles, institutional stability, and national unity, even in the face of political differences.
Political analysts note that the President’s remarks come at a time of heightened political debate in the country, with opposition figures and civil society groups increasingly scrutinising government policies on the economy, security, and governance.
Despite these criticisms, the Presidency has consistently maintained that ongoing reforms are necessary to reposition the country for long-term growth and stability.
Governor Peter Mbah, who led the Enugu delegation, did not publicly respond to the President’s remarks during the meeting, but the visit is understood to be part of broader consultations between the federal government and state leaders on development priorities.
As Nigeria continues to navigate economic reforms and political tensions, the Tinubu administration says its focus remains on strengthening democratic institutions and delivering tangible benefits to citizens across all regions of the country.
