President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians to maintain faith in the country even when they choose to criticise or disagree with his administration.
Tinubu made the appeal on Friday during a nationwide broadcast marking Nigeria’s 27th year of uninterrupted democratic governance.
Tinubu said democracy weakens when citizens lose confidence in the system, describing the National Assembly, judiciary, the press, and civil society as key safeguards of the nation’s democratic structure.
“Criticise me, disagree with me, but never stop believing in the nation,” he said.
Addressing young Nigerians, the President encouraged them to remain in the country and contribute to its development, stressing that national progress depends on those who stay back to solve problems.
“To our young people, Nigeria is your home and your future. Build here, work here, and eat here. Every great nation was built by those who stayed to solve problems, not by those who abandoned ship,” he added.
Tinubu also commended the armed forces, police, and intelligence agencies for their sacrifices, while appreciating traditional rulers, faith leaders, and community leaders for their roles in promoting peace and reconciliation.
