Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has urged Nigerians to make the protection of human rights, dignity and individual freedoms a central part of the country’s democratic journey.
The First Lady made the call on Tuesday in her message commemorating the 2026 International Day of Democracy, themed “Bring Human Rights into Focus.”
Mrs Tinubu said democracy would only achieve its true purpose when government and citizens worked collectively to protect the rights and interests of every Nigerian.
According to her, the theme of this year’s International Day of Democracy serves as a reminder that democratic governance must go beyond elections and political transitions to include respect for the fundamental rights and freedoms of citizens.
She noted that Nigeria had recorded important milestones since independence, particularly after more than 25 years of uninterrupted democratic rule.
The First Lady highlighted stronger democratic institutions, peaceful transfers of power and increased citizen participation as some of the gains recorded by the country.
However, she stressed that sustaining democracy required the continued commitment of Nigerians to democratic values and the protection of citizens’ rights.
“Let us collectively continue to work together to strengthen our democracy, ensure that it serves the interests of all Nigerians, and build a more peaceful and prosperous nation,” she said.
Mrs Tinubu congratulated Nigerians on the occasion, while calling for renewed commitment to building a democratic system where the rights, dignity and freedoms of citizens remain at the centre of governance.
