*Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, National Chairman, All Progressives Congress, urges Nigerians to reflect on the significance of June 12 as the country commemorates Democracy Day, and recommit themselves to the ideals of unity, patriotism, good governance, and national development
Emmanuel Akosile | ConsumerConnect
Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has felicitated with Nigerians on the occasion of this year’s Democracy Day Friday, June 12, 2026.
Yilwatda urged citizens to reflect on the significance of June 12, and recommit themselves to the ideals of unity, patriotism, good governance, and national development.
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The National Chairman of the governing APC also described June 12 as one of the most important dates in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
According to him, the day represents the courage and sacrifice of countless patriots, who stood firmly for justice, electoral integrity, and the sovereignty of the Nigerian people.
Abimbola Tooki, Special Adviser on Media and Information Strategy to APC Chairman, in a statement Thursday, June 11, 2026, noted Prof. Yilwatda stated: “Democracy Day is not merely another public holiday; it is a solemn reminder of our collective struggle for freedom, representative government, and the right of every Nigerian to determine the destiny of our nation through democratic means.
“It is a celebration of resilience, hope, and the enduring belief that the people’s voice must always prevail.”
The APC National Chairman noted that the observance of June 12 provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the nation’s democratic progress, while renewing their commitment to protecting the institutions that sustain constitutional governance.
He emphasised that democracy has provided Nigeria with the platform for peaceful political participation, greater accountability, protection of fundamental rights, and opportunities for citizens to contribute meaningfully to nation-building.
The National Chairman said: “Every generation has a responsibility to defend democracy.
“The sacrifices made by our democratic heroes should never be forgotten, nor should we allow actions capable of undermining our constitutional order. Regardless of our political affiliations or differences, Nigeria’s democracy must remain stronger than individual ambitions or sectional interests.”
Prof. Yilwatda, therefore, urged political leaders, civil society organisations, the media, religious institutions, youth groups, and all stakeholders to promote dialogue, tolerance, respect for the rule of law, and peaceful engagement in the democratic process.
He further encouraged Nigerians to continue supporting the bold economic and institutional reforms being implemented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
According to him, meaningful national transformation often requires difficult but necessary decisions.
Yilwatda stated: “The Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is fundamentally designed to reposition Nigeria for sustainable growth, economic stability, infrastructure development, improved social welfare, expanded investment opportunities, and enhanced prosperity for future generations. “While reforms may demand patience and sacrifice, history has consistently shown that courageous leadership and sound policy choices lay the foundation for lasting national progress.”
The APC National Chairman maintained that the administration’s ongoing reforms across critical sectors of the economy are intended to strengthen public institutions, create jobs, improve the investment climate, expand opportunities for businesses, and build a more competitive and inclusive Nigerian economy.
He equally appealed to Nigerians to remain hopeful, resilient, and united behind the collective aspiration for a stronger nation.
The National Chairman said: “As we commemorate Democracy Day, let us remember that democracy flourishes only where citizens actively defend it with responsibility, patriotism, and respect for one another.
“Let us reject division, violence, misinformation, and actions capable of threatening our democratic stability.
“Our greatest tribute to the heroes of June 12 is to preserve the democracy they fought for and work together to build a peaceful, prosperous, and united Nigeria for generations yet unborn.”
Prof. Yilwatda wished all Nigerians a peaceful and memorable Democracy Day celebration and reaffirmed the commitment of the All Progressives Congress to strengthening democratic governance, promoting national unity, and supporting policies that advance the progress and prosperity of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.