June 12: President Bola Tinubu, The Foremost Hero Of Nigerian Democracy By Adeboye Adebayo

June 12 stands eternally etched in the annals of Nigeria’s political evolution as the symbol of the people’s will and the epitome of the struggle for democratic governance.

While many patriots and activists played their roles in this defining saga of our national history, one man has stood resilient, unwavering, and dogged through the years in his commitment to enthroning, strengthening, and deepening democracy in Nigeria; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

From his days as a frontline pro-democracy activist in the trenches during the oppressive military regimes, to his pivotal role in the formation of modern Nigeria’s most formidable political movement, the All Progressives Congress (APC), President Tinubu’s democratic credentials remain impeccable.

A torchbearer of the June 12 mandate and a disciple of Chief M.K.O. Abiola, Tinubu risked his life and sacrificed his personal comfort in the fight for democratic rule.

His exile years during the darkest days of military dictatorship were marked by relentless advocacy, mobilisation of international support, and strategic planning for Nigeria’s return to civilian rule. He is not just a beneficiary of democracy, he is one of its architects in the Fourth Republic.

As president, Bola Tinubu has proven that democratic leadership must be defined not only by freedom and civil liberties but by the courage to make tough decisions for the future of the nation.

His administration has taken bold, necessary, and sometimes unpopular steps to steer Nigeria back on the path of greatness, peace, stability, and economic sustainability.

One of such courageous reforms was the removal of the long-standing and economically draining petroleum subsidy.

It was a decision not rooted in politics but in patriotic pragmatism; an acknowledgment that for Nigeria to prosper, the economy must be freed from burdensome policies that only benefit the corrupt elite.

President Tinubu, a democrat at heart, chose the path of truth and reform over populism, showing he believes in attracting and delivering the true dividends of democracy to the Nigerian people.

In the same vein, his government’s decision to begin the gradual repayment of the IMF debt, and his resolve to maintain a deregulated economic structure, signals to both local and international investors that Nigeria is serious about fiscal responsibility and economic self-reliance.

These reforms lay the foundation for long-term economic growth, investor confidence, and sustainable development.

The infrastructural revolution under Tinubu’s watch is another giant stride worthy of note. Roads, railways, airports, power, and other critical infrastructures are being prioritized, upgraded, and expanded across the six geopolitical zones.

These are not just developmental projects, they are deliberate economic strategies aimed at opening up Nigeria for foreign investment, job creation, and enhanced productivity.

Infrastructure is the oxygen of any serious economy, and Tinubu, ever the strategist, understands this perfectly.

On the international front, President Tinubu is repositioning Nigeria as a leader in Africa and a respected voice in global diplomacy.

As Chairman of ECOWAS, he has led with firmness and diplomacy in restoring peace and democratic stability in West Africa, especially in the face of recent military coups.

His leadership reflects Nigeria’s long-standing status as the giant of Africa and a defender of democratic ideals on the continent.

Perhaps, one of the most profound demonstrations of his global outlook was his address at the 78th United Nations General Assembly in New York, the first as Nigeria’s president. In that landmark speech, Tinubu fiercely defended the dignity of Nigeria and Africa.

He spoke not with the timidity of a beggar nation, but with the confidence of a president who knows his people’s worth.

He challenged global leaders to stop exploiting Africa, advocated for fair trade, and called for genuine partnerships that respect the sovereignty and potentials of African nations. It was a speech of vision, pride, and truth.

Equally telling of his leadership philosophy is his attendance at the recent inauguration of the new Pope at the Vatican. This singular act not only reflects his maturity and diplomatic sensitivity but underscores his deep understanding of religious tolerance, national unity, and the global interfaith dynamics needed for peace.

In a nation as religiously diverse as Nigeria, such symbolic leadership helps reinforce the pillars of mutual respect and national cohesion.

President Tinubu stands today not only as a political leader but as a statesman and patriot who is committed to a Nigeria that works; not just for the few, but for all.

His vision is bold. His resolve is firm. His legacy is being written with policies of courage, principles of fairness, and a passion for national progress.

As we commemorate June 12 this year, it is not just about looking back at what was lost, but also looking forward to what can be achieved.

And in this forward-looking journey, Bola Ahmed Tinubu stands as the foremost hero of Nigerian democracy, past, present, and the unfolding future.

God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

God bless President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

Long live Nigerian democracy.

_Comrade Adeboye Adebayo Who Is A Lead Advocate of Tinubu Renewed Hope Agenda, Was A Spokesman, APC, Tinubu/Shettima Presidential Campaign Council and Member, APC Professional Forum in Abuja_

Disclaimer: This piece represents the opinion of the writer not that of CityMirrorNews