Tinubu Marks Democracy Day, Urges Young Nigerians to Reject 'Japa' Migration

In a televised Democracy Day broadcast on June 12, President Bola Tinubu urged young Nigerians to build their futures at home rather than emigrate, telling them: 'Nigeria is your home and your future. Build here, code here, work here, and vote here. Every great nation was built by those who stayed to solve problems, not by those who abandoned ship.' He framed the address as a call to reject cynicism and division fueling the 'japa' emigration wave, while touting economic reforms — fuel subsidy removal and naira unification — as the foundation for a stronger, more self-reliant economy. The speech came amid continuing public frustration over cost-of-living pressures and insecurity in the run-up to the 2027 election cycle.