Democracy Day: Northern Govs Felicitate Tinubu, Nigerians, Hail Democratic Gains

The Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Nigerians on the occasion of the 2026 Democracy Day, describing democracy as the most reliable pathway to sustainable development and national progress.

In a Democracy Day message issued by his spokesman, Ismaila Uba Misilli, on Friday, Governor Yahaya said the steady transformation witnessed across Gombe State demonstrates the benefits of uninterrupted democratic governance, visionary leadership, and active citizen participation.

He noted that the major strides recorded in infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, environmental management, and industrialisation were made possible through deliberate policies, institutional stability, and accountable leadership.

According to him, Gombe State has emerged as a practical example of what democratic governance can achieve when leaders remain committed to the welfare of the people.

He highlighted key projects executed by his administration, including the Network 11-100 Roads Initiative, urban renewal and environmental sustainability programmes, revitalisation of schools and healthcare facilities, the Three Arms Zone, the Muhammadu Buhari Industrial Park, the Agro-Livestock Development Zone, and the DEVAGOM economic blueprint.

Governor Yahaya said these projects underscore how democracy can improve the lives of citizens through transparent governance, inclusive policies, and long-term economic planning.

“Democracy has created an enabling environment for growth, expanded access to public services, and opened new opportunities for our people,” he said.

The NSGF chairman acknowledged the challenges encountered in Nigeria’s democratic journey but described the country’s 27 years of uninterrupted civilian rule as a significant achievement worthy of celebration.

“Our ability as a nation to sustain democratic governance, manage transitions peacefully, and continue striving toward national development is worthy of recognition,” he added.

Governor Yahaya paid tribute to pro-democracy activists and institutions, including the judiciary, legislature, media, and civil society organisations, for their contributions to sustaining democratic governance in the country.

He also commended the media for promoting democratic values and holding public office holders accountable, while urging journalists and citizens to reject fake news, misinformation, and divisive narratives capable of threatening national unity, particularly as preparations begin for the 2027 general elections.

“As we celebrate Democracy Day 2026, I urge all citizens to remain united, peaceful, and committed to the ideals of justice, accountability, and good governance,” he said.

The governor maintained that despite prevailing national challenges, democracy remains the foundation for peace, participation, development, and national progress, and wished Nigerians a peaceful and memorable Democracy Day celebration.