Abuja, Nigeria — In a poignant welcome address during the 2025 Democracy Day celebration, His Excellency, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, President of the Senate, honored President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to democracy and national development.
“Your presence here rekindles the memory of a long and courageous journey—marked by struggle, sacrifice, and an unyielding belief in the ideals of democracy,” Akpabio stated, acknowledging Tinubu as a “veteran of the trenches” and a symbol of democratic resistance.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s tumultuous past, Akpabio emphasized the significance of June 12, 1993, when Nigerians bravely declared, “Our voice matters. Our vote counts.” He lamented the annulment of the historic election, describing it as a moment when Nigeria lost its innocence. “Tears, rage, and hope poured into the streets,” he remarked, highlighting the collective resistance that followed.
This year’s theme, “26 Years of Democracy: Renewing Our Commitment to National Development,” was presented not merely as a slogan but as a call to action. Akpabio praised Tinubu’s administration for its bold reforms, stating, “These efforts are gradually restoring investor confidence and laying the foundations for long-term prosperity.”
Highlighting the accomplishments of the 10th National Assembly, Akpabio noted that in its first two years, the Senate introduced 844 bills, with 96 already passed into law. “This is a record for any Nigerian Senate at this stage of the legislative cycle,” he said, emphasizing the importance of legislative output in addressing national challenges.
Akpabio also called for collaboration between the executive and legislative branches, drawing parallels with successful governance models worldwide. “Where governance is a partnership, progress follows. But where governance is a contest, the people suffer,” he warned.
In closing, he urged all Nigerians to remain engaged in democracy. “Democracy is not a gift. It is a trust we must protect,” he asserted. He also proposed the establishment of a June 12 Museum to honor the sacrifices of those who fought for democracy, stating, “Nations that forget their past lose the moral compass for their future.”
As he welcomed President Tinubu to address the assembly, Akpabio reaffirmed the commitment of the National Assembly to uplift all Nigerians. “We owe it to those who fought. We owe it to those who fell. We owe it to those who still believe,” he concluded.
