Oyo, Borno abductions dampen Nigeria's Democracy Day mood, says Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu acknowledged that the mood of Nigeria's Democracy Day celebrations was dampened by the ongoing captivity of schoolchildren abducted in Oyo and Borno states. Despite this somber note, he reaffirmed his administration's resolve to secure their safe return and bolster the nation's overall security architecture.

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Though this year's mood is dampened by the abduction of our children in Oyo and Borno, we remain hopeful for their safe return.

"Though this year's mood is dampened by the abduction of our children in Oyo and Borno, we remain hopeful for their safe return," Tinubu stated during his national address marking Nigeria's 27th Democracy Day. He emphasized that "Democracy without security is a mirage," underscoring his administration's declaration of a security emergency and approval for the recruitment of over 50,000 new police officers and thousands of military recruits.

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Democracy without security is a mirage.

The President also paid tribute to security personnel, traditional rulers, and religious leaders for their support in peace efforts. "To our armed forces, police, and intelligence services: Nigeria salutes your sacrifice," he said. He also thanked traditional rulers, faith leaders, and community heads, stating, "The government cannot do it alone."

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To our armed forces, police, and intelligence services: Nigeria salutes your sacrifice.