As Nigeria marks the 32nd anniversary of the historic June 12 election, Hon. Shittu Ibraheem Aremu, the distinguished lawmaker representing Saki West State Constituency, has paid glowing tribute to the nation’s democratic resilience while commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for his transformative leadership under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Speaking in a special statement to commemorate the anniversary, Hon. Shittu reflected on the profound significance of June 12, 1993 — the day Nigerians from all walks of life overwhelmingly voted for Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola in what remains the most credible election in the country’s history. Despite the annulment of that electoral victory and the subsequent loss of Chief Abiola, Nigeria has since emerged from the shadows of authoritarian rule to build a thriving democratic order.
“Today is yet another feat in Nigeria’s democratic journey,” Hon. Shittu stated. “The vacuum left by the unjust denial of Chief MKO Abiola’s mandate continues to be deeply felt. However, providence has allowed us to witness a renewed chapter under the stewardship of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, whose leadership embodies the democratic aspirations of that historic June 12.”
In his remarks, Hon. Shittu lauded the progress made over the past two years since President Tinubu assumed office. Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the administration has pursued wide-ranging reforms aimed at repositioning Nigeria on the global economic stage.
“The past two years have not only been a period of governance but a milestone of transformation,” Hon. Shittu emphasized. “The Tinubu-led government has demonstrated exceptional commitment and dexterity in steering the nation towards growth and development, with laudable strides in the economy, infrastructure, agriculture, education, and social investment.”
Hon. Shittu acknowledged the bold and often difficult decisions made by the administration to stabilize the Nigerian economy. These include subsidy removal, foreign exchange unification, fiscal discipline, and targeted investments across key sectors. He stressed that while some of these reforms have attracted criticism due to their immediate socio-economic implications, they remain necessary for sustainable national development.
“Our government is not oblivious to the challenges that come with these far-reaching reforms,” he continued. “However, the policies being institutionalized are designed to restore Nigeria to its rightful place as a world-class economic power. The recent projections by the World Bank, which foresee Nigeria’s continued economic growth trajectory through 2027, serve as a testament to the prudence and effectiveness of these reforms.”
Beyond economic indices, Hon. Shittu also underscored the government’s focus on improving the welfare of ordinary Nigerians through targeted social investment programs, youth empowerment initiatives, infrastructural development, and enhanced security architecture.
In a tone filled with patriotic fervor, Hon. Shittu called on Nigerians to remain united and supportive of the ongoing reforms, urging all citizens to uphold the spirit of democracy and nation-building that has brought Nigeria thus far.
“With utmost joy and a deep sense of patriotism, I join all well-meaning Nigerians who have kept faith with the democratic project,” Hon. Shittu declared. “Together, let us continue to hail our beloved Fatherland as we celebrate yet another peaceful political reign, made possible by the sacrifices of heroes past and the unwavering determination of our people.”
As Nigeria pauses to reflect on its democratic journey, Hon. Shittu’s message resonates as a rallying call for renewed collective commitment to national unity, stability, and progress — core pillars of the enduring democratic experiment that June 12 symbolizes.
