As Nigeria celebrates Democracy Day 2025, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, MON, has extended warm greetings to Nigerians, while paying special tribute to the nation’s Armed Forces for their unwavering dedication to safeguarding the country’s territorial integrity and preserving democratic governance.
In a statement issued to mark the occasion, Dr. Matawalle described June 12 as a symbol of Nigeria’s national resolve and collective aspiration. According to him, the democracy being celebrated today was not handed down lightly, but earned through heroic struggles and the supreme sacrifices of patriots who dared to envision a free, just, and sovereign Republic.
Reaffirming the position of the military under the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the Minister assured Nigerians of the unalloyed loyalty and combat readiness of the Armed Forces to defend the Constitution, protect democratic institutions, and preserve peace and unity across the country.
“Today, our Armed Forces operate in an increasingly complex security environment—marked by terrorism, insurgency, banditry, cyber warfare, disinformation, and cross-border criminality,” the Minister noted. “Despite these evolving threats, the Nigerian military remains vigilant, adaptive, and professional. Under the strategic direction of the Ministry of Defence, we continue to invest in force modernisation, training, morale enhancement, and the welfare of our personnel and their families.”
Dr. Matawalle also restated the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture through a whole-of-government and whole-of-society defence strategy. This approach, he explained, is anchored on collaboration, intelligence synergy, and inter-agency cooperation towards ensuring a secure and democratic Nigeria for all citizens.
The Minister offered special recognition to the gallant troops currently deployed in various theatres of operation across the country and beyond, stating that their courage, discipline, and selflessness inspire confidence and command national respect. He emphasized that the sacrifices of these brave men and women form the foundation upon which Nigeria’s peace and democracy are built.
Dr. Matawalle also honoured the nation’s veterans and the families of fallen heroes, assuring them that their pain and sacrifices are not forgotten. “The nation owes you a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid in full. We honour you with solemn pride and assure you that your loved ones’ legacy lives on in the heart of the Republic,” he said.
As the country marks Democracy Day 2025, the Minister called on all Nigerians to renew their collective commitment to building a stronger, more united, and resilient nation, noting that democracy is sustained not only through ballots, but also by the vigilance, unity, and patriotism of every citizen.
“Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Long live the Armed Forces of Nigeria,” the Minister concluded.