Speaker Tajudeen Abbas Celebrates 25 Years of Democracy, Promises More Dividends for Nigerians
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has extended his congratulations to Nigerians on the 25th anniversary of uninterrupted democratic governance. He assured the citizens that more dividends of democracy are forthcoming.
Historical Context
This milestone commemorates the transition from military to civilian rule on May 29, 1999, when General Abdulsalami Abubakar’s regime handed over power to the democratically elected government of Olusegun Obasanjo. This transition followed widespread condemnation of the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, which was won by the late Moshood Abiola.
Speaker Abbas’ Statement
In a statement signed by the speaker’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Krishi, Abbas highlighted Nigeria’s evolution over the past 25 years. He emphasized that the dividends of democracy are reaching more Nigerians and will continue to do so.
“This year’s celebration marks a significant epoch in the life of the National Assembly, as it also coincides with the first anniversary of the 10th Assembly,” Abbas noted. The 10th National Assembly was inaugurated on June 13, 2023, by President Bola Tinubu.
Growth in Democratic Practice
The statement reads, “Democracy has come to stay in Nigeria. The country has been navigating through the learning curves successfully; though it is not yet perfect, the country has continued to grow in democratic experience and practice.”
Abbas, who represents the Zaria Federal Constituency in Kaduna State, urged Nigerians across all demographics to contribute to the nation’s growth and development. He assured that Nigeria is on a path to becoming a country its citizens will be proud of.
Call for Unity and Support
The Speaker also called for continued support for the government at all levels and encouraged Nigerians to remain law-abiding citizens. He stressed that the success of the government’s plans, policies, and programs relies on the collective responsibility of all citizens, with the people being critical stakeholders.
“With the people as the critical stakeholders,” Abbas emphasized, “it is our collective responsibility to make the government succeed in its plans, policies, and programmes.”
As Nigeria marks this significant anniversary, Speaker Abbas’s message is a reminder of the journey so far and a call to action for all Nigerians to actively participate in shaping the future of the nation.
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