2023 Headies Awards: A Star-Studded Night of Musical Brilliance and Pan-African Unity
Ayomide Ayomide 
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Monday, addressed Nigerians as the country celebrates Democracy.
In his address to Nigerians, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recognized the challenges faced by the citizens following the removal of fuel subsidies. However, he assured the people that their sacrifices would be rewarded by focusing on investing in key areas such as education, healthcare, transportation infrastructure, regular power supply, and other public utilities.
These are the major points the President highlighted in his speech:
1. June 12, 1993 Annulment: President Tinubu acknowledged that the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, won by Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, played a significant role in the struggle for democracy in Nigeria.
2. Sacrifice of Chief MKO Abiola: Tinubu praised Chief MKO Abiola for his unwavering commitment and sacrifice in defending democracy, even at the cost of his life.
3. Other Heroes of Democracy: The President remembered other heroes of democracy, including Kudirat Abiola, Pa Alfred Rewane, and Major General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua (rtd).
4. Democracy Must Not Be Taken For Granted: President Tinubu urged Nigerians not to take democracy for granted and emphasized the importance of guarding and protecting the hard-fought independence struggle.
5. 2023 Elections: Tinubu acknowledged the intensity of the 2023 general election and highlighted the essence of democracy, where winners today may become losers tomorrow and vice versa.
6. Rule of Law and Vibrant Judiciary: The President pledged to uphold the rule of law, strengthen the judiciary, and ensure that illegal orders that undermine democracy are no longer tolerated. He also mentioned the recent harmonization of retirement age for judicial officers as a step toward strengthening the rule of law.
7. Fuel Subsidy Removal: President Tinubu recognized the hardships faced by Nigerians due to the removal of fuel subsidies but assured them that these temporary difficulties were necessary to save the country. He promised to reward their sacrifices by investing significantly in transportation infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other public utilities to improve their quality of life.
