Fellow Nigerians
Today, we celebrate democracy and the enduring Nigerian spirit. For 27 unbroken years, since May 29, 1999, Nigerians have chosen their leaders through the ballot, witnessed peaceful transitions of power, and resolved disagreements in courtrooms and legislative chambers—not through violence. We have experienced the longest stretch of civilian rule in our history. Our democracy is not perfect, but it is ours, and we must continue to defend and strengthen it.
I commend all our patriotic front-line soldiers in the fight against terrorism in all forms.
You stand as a shield between innocent citizens and those who seek to destroy the peace, safety, and dignity of our communities.
In the forests, on the roads, at forward operating bases, in the air, creeks, and across difficult terrains, you carry the burden of national protection so that millions of Nigerians can sleep, work, worship, farm, trade, and raise their children in hope.
This fight has not been easy. It has come with pain, pressure, and sacrifice. But your courage has remained firm. Your service is acknowledged. Your sacrifice is honoured. Your country does not take you for granted.
To every officer and soldier of our Armed Forces, to the Police, DSS, Civil Defence, intelligence services, local security formations, and all who work day and night to keep Nigeria safe, I say thank you.
I also acknowledge the families behind the uniform. Many of you have endured long absences, anxious nights, and the emotional cost of duty. Nigeria remembers that sacrifice, too.
We honour those who have paid the supreme price in defence of our country. Their names may not always trend, but their courage lives on in rescued communities, protected families, and the survival of the nation they served.
The fight against terror is not only a military operation. It is a national duty. Citizens must support our security forces by providing timely, useful information. When you see something, say something. When you know something, report it.
Nigeria will not surrender to fear. We will not allow terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, or violent extremists to define who we are as a people. Their violence is not our identity. Their hatred does not represent Nigerians of any faith, creed, or community.
To our troops and all front-line patriots, thank you for your courage. Thank you for your vigilance. Thank you for your service.
May the Almighty protect you as you protect our country.
Bola Ahmed Tinubu
President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces
Federal Republic of Nigeria
President, Bola Tinubu,I hope this letter finds you well. I want to take a moment to encourage you in your leadership of our nation, Nigeria. The road ahead is tough, but your vision and resilience are inspiring to many of us. Keep pushing for a better Nigeria sir @officialABAT
Speaking at the Africa CEO Forum Presidential Panel yesterday evening in Kigali, I re-emphasised that Africa must put Africa first whilst creating opportunities for intra-Africa collaboration between our countries.
Our continent cannot build scale by looking outward first. We must invest in one another, trade more with one another, build the corridors that connect our markets, ensure our innovative youthful population get the support they need, and give African businesses the confidence to expand across African borders.
Nigeria’s reforms are not only about fixing yesterday. They are about preparing our economy to lead in the Africa of tomorrow. With AfCFTA, digital trade, shared infrastructure, stronger logistics, commodities exchange, and deeper private sector partnerships, we can turn Africa’s population and resources into real continental prosperity. The global risk and financial architecture must also give Africa a fair deal that recognises our local nuances and contexts.
I thank my brother, President Paul Kagame, for his warm hospitality and for Rwanda’s continued leadership in showing what discipline, clarity and execution can do for development.
Nigeria will continue to work with Rwanda and other African partners to build a continent that produces more, trades more, connects better, and competes with greater confidence in the world.
Africa’s future will not be handed to us. We must build it, own it, and defend it together.
~ Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR