BEAUTY FROM THE ASHES
Episode 6

The women’s conference stretched across the week like a divine unfolding, each evening a sacred appointment that Amara hadn’t even known her soul had been craving. It wasn’t just a program; it was an invitation. An invitation to heal, to awaken and to breathe again.

The first night had left her in tears. The speaker, a soft-spoken woman with eyes that seemed to hold the weight of a thousand stories, had shared her journey from despair to deliverance. Amara sat quietly in the third row, tears slipping down her cheeks as the words struck something deep, something raw within her. She wasn’t alone. Not in her pain. Not in her confusion. Not even in her silence.

Every session after that peeled back another layer of pain, of pride, of fear. Like an onion shedding its skin, Amara found herself slowly unraveling. The masks she had worn for years...the brave wife, the silent sufferer, the spiritual martyr, began to fall. With every worship session, with every testimony, the walls she had so carefully constructed began to crack.

Each night, she came home lighter. And each morning, she woke with a little more clarity. It was as if her heart was remembering how to feel again, how to hope.

By Thursday, something inside her had shifted.

That night’s message felt like it was delivered straight from the throne room of heaven to her wounded heart. The speaker, a fiery preacher with a voice that could calm storms or rouse an army, stood with authority and grace.

She read from Isaiah 61:3:

“…to give them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness…”

The words echoed through the hall, soaking into the atmosphere like rain on dry soil.

Amara closed her eyes and let them wash over her.

Beauty for ashes.

Joy for mourning.

Praise for heaviness.

She didn’t know when the tears had started, but they came in quiet streams, not of sorrow, but of release. For the first time in a long time, Amara allowed herself to believe that maybe, just maybe, her story wasn’t over. That perhaps God hadn’t abandoned her in the wreckage of her marriage, but had been waiting in the wings for her to find the strength to choose.

Later that evening, Amara sat in Chinwe’s cozy living room, cradling a warm mug of ginger tea. The lights were dim, the air fragrant with the scent of cinnamon and honey. Chinwe sat across from her, legs tucked under her on the couch, listening intently.

“I feel like I’ve been sleepwalking for years,” Amara began, her voice barely above a whisper. “I was so sure I was doing God’s will by marrying Eddy. Everyone said I was. And when things turned ugly, I thought... maybe this was my cross. Maybe I was supposed to endure it.”

Chinwe reached out and gently took her hand. “Amara,” she said, her tone gentle but firm, “God never asks us to stay in darkness and call it faith. He’s not glorified by your suffering. He’s glorified by your healing, your wholeness, your courage.”

Amara looked down, tears pooling again.

“But how do I just walk away? I made vows. I kept hoping he’d change. I didn’t want to give up.”

“Walking away from abuse isn’t giving up,” Chinwe replied. “It’s waking up. It’s choosing life. God is not a taskmaster. He’s your Father. And He loves you far too much to watch you slowly die in a house where your soul can’t breathe.”

A long silence passed between them.

“So what do I do now?” Amara finally asked, her voice cracking.

Chinwe squeezed her hand. “You choose,” she said softly. “You choose light. You choose life. You choose you.”

That night, Amara didn’t sleep much. She lay in her room, staring at the ceiling, thinking of all the moments she had silenced herself for the sake of peace, all the prayers she had whispered in the darkness, asking God to change Eddy, to save their home. But something had shifted. She realized she had been praying for resurrection in a grave she was never meant to lie in.

The next morning, the storm arrived.

Eddy came home with a man and started raining abuses on Amara; " See this idiot! You think you can come from African part of Nigeria to outsmart me that came from American part of Nigeria?
It's either you hand over the school to me, channel all income to my account or I make sure the school is closed down completely."
Her children, all came out to watch helplessly as usual. As Amara was trying to explain to the man he came home with, Eddy rushed Amara and started pounding her, targeting her face and bragging that he must make sure Amara becomes useless to any other man in this life; "By the time I'm done with you, people would spit on you at sight"
Eddy continued hitting Amara until she collapsed on the floor. The poor man that came to ask for money to feed his family couldn't help the situation. When Amara regained consciousness, she saw only her children crying and waking her up. She sent for Chinwe. Chinwe immediately and secretly arranged for a drop that took them to Divine Mercy Hospital. The doctor was furious and demanded for his presence. When he arrived, he pleaded with the doctor that it's devil's handwork. As soon as he sighted Amara's brother, he begged Amara not to tell her brother but mocked her immediately her brother left.

It's already few days Amara returned from hospital. Pastor Dickson visited their house.
Bro Eddy pls kindly tell your wife what you shared with me. Eddy hesitated. "Sister Amara, your husband impregnated a lady called Jacinta and asked her to keep the baby. Although the lady insisted he must furnish a flat for her otherwise she will terminate the pregnancy. He was mad against you because he was having a showdown financially and couldn't meet the lady's demands and you refused to hand your income over to him." Pastor Dickson explained.

Amara was lost in thought...so this man wanted me dead because of women. She remembered how he was bashed by one of his customers when she visited at the hospital.
"Eddy, were you not the one that that told me this woman gave up her 12month salaries for you to have an English machine?
Why are you treating this woman as if she worths nothing?" Mrs Aleme queried
"How dare her say no to my order, a woman that bends to urinate?
She must hand over the school to me. My account must be used for all income!" he thundered.
But she has left the factory for you. The woman reminded
And then? Eddy persisted.

To Be Continued

What do you think that happened next?
Find out in the next episode

Pls encourage me with like, follow, comment and share. God bless you

Grace Amarachi

#teacherwritersingerlover
#BeautyFromTheAshes #ChristianFiction #FaithAndResilience

The grace of God that brings salvation has been revealed to everyone. It encourages us to reject unrighteousness and worldly desires, and to live in a disciplined, moral and godly way in this present time.

The grace of God that brings salvation has been revealed to everyone. It encourages us to reject unrighteousness and worldly desires, and to live in a disciplined, moral and godly way in this present time.

The truth won't set you free—your courage to live it will."

The truth won't set you free—your courage to live it will."

There is nothing as discouraging as not getting appraisal or encouragement for your efforts to make something right.

When you devote yourself to proffer solutions to certain problems or difficulties faced by people around you but get little or no recognition from it.

Believe me, it is heartbreaking. I have been there too.

This can make you give up on your dreams.

It can make you shut the windows of your inspiration.

It can terminate your vision.

It can enslave you to low self-esteem and doubt.

That which you can do will seem strange to you and becomes difficult to do.

I understand.

Your experiences so far have made you quit that which you do.

But I bring you something different. Different from 'balablu'.

RENEWAL!

In every weakness, there lies strength.

In disappointments, there you will find blessings.

In loss, there is gain.

In discouragement is encouragement.

You can still write...

You can still organize that program...

You can still volunteer, again...

You can still design...

You can still speak, your voice is ok...

All you need to do is START, that is the definition of renewal ~ strengthening that which is feeble...to revive!

This word has the potency to re-ignite the already quenched fire in you, get up and walk!

Look beyond appraisals and recommendations, in due time they will surface.

Your audience misses you.

Your generation awaits your return, patiently.

Now is the appointed time, let's do more.

FYI, we can do it together.

I hope this helps.

I am
Erasmus Ibom

*POISON THAT KILLS MEN*

*Once upon a time a beautiful girl got tired of her marriage life and wanted to murder her spouse.*

*One morning she ran to her mother and say to her " mother, I am tired of my husband I can no longer support his nonsense. I want* *to kill him but I am afraid Law of the land will hold me responsible, can you please help me mother?"*

*The mother answered:*

- *Yes my daughter I can help you, but, there is a little task attached.*

*The daughter asked "what task? I am willing and ready to assume any task attached in order to get him out"*

*OK, said the mother,*

*1..You will have to make* *peace with him, so that no one will suspect you when he is dead.*

*2.. You will have to beautify yourself in order to look young and attractive to him*

*3.. You have to take good care of him and be very nice and appreciative to him*

*4.. You have to be patient, loving and less jealous, have more listening ears, be more respectful and obedient*

*5. Spend your money for him and don’t get angry even when he don't give you money for whatever*

*6. Don’t raise your voice against but encourage Peace and love so that you will never be suspected when he must* *have died.*

*Can you do all of that?*
*Asked the mother.*
*Yes i can. She replied*
*OK, said the mother.*

*Take this powder and pour a bit in his every day meal, it will slowly kill him.*

*After 30 days the lady came back to her mother and said.*

*Mother, I have no intention of killing my husband again. As of now I have grown to love him because he has completely changed, he is* *now a very sweet husband than I ever imagined.*

*What can i do to stop the poison from killing him?*

*Please help me mother.*

*She pleaded in a sorrowful tone.*

*The mother answered;*
*Do not worry my daughter.* *What I gave you the other day* *was just Tumeric Powder. It will never kill him.*

*In reality, you were the poison that was slowly killing your husband with tension and dispassion.*

*It was when you started loving, honouring and cherishing him that you saw him change to a nice and sweet husband.*

*Men are not really wicked, but our way of relating with them determines their responses and feelings towards us.*

*Women if you can only show respect, dedication, love, care and commitment to your husband he will 100% be there for you.*

Happy Father's Day in Advance

10 THINGS YOU SHOULD PAY ATTENTION TO BEFORE YOU COMMIT TO SOMEONE FOR MARRIAGE

1. HOW THEY HANDLE CORRECTION.

Marriage will require a lot of learning, unlearning and relearning. If the person is not teachable, marriage will be a challenge.

2. HOW THEY ACT WHEN THEY DON'T GET WHAT THEY WANT.

If someone cannot handle disappointments, or they always want things to go their way, that will be a difficult spouse.

3. HOW THEY ACT AROUND THE OPPOSITE GENDER.

They are in a relationship but act & behave like they are single & open. Someone who gets overly excited around the opposite gender sometimes to the point of forgetting you even exist or wants to entertain and please others, will bring you unnecessary trouble.

4. HOW THEY ACT WHEN ANGRY.

Anger is a normal human emotion, but how you control it or how it controls you will determine if you're ready for marriage or you need serious help. Does the person become insulting, violent, threatening and rude when angry; or do they control their temper? Marriage will bring some reasons to be angry here and there; can they handle it?

5. HOW THEY ACT WHEN THE CONVERSATION IS ABOUT SEX.

If they get uncomfortable when the conversation is about sex or they get overly lustful; your marriage will have trouble. Marriage should be with someone open about sex conversations and also someone who sees it as something special in marriage.

6. HOW THEY ACT WHEN THE CONVERSATION IS NOT ABOUT SEX.

Does the person tune off or show no interest when you talk about other topics? That person is only interested in sex, not a long term bond with you. Be careful!

7. HOW THEY ACT WHEN YOU CAN'T GIVE TIME.

If there are moments you can't answer the persons phone call because you're in a meeting, function or can't reply immediately to their messages but you get back to them when you're done, does the person understand; or become controlling and insecure, wanting to micromanage your time? You are safe with someone who understands there are other parts and roles in your life that need your attention.

8. HOW THEY ACT WHEN YOU TALK ABOUT GOD.

If the person avoids God talk, they will not raise with you the Godly family you are praying for. Quote me anywhere, no marriage can enjoy the blessings that comes with marriage if they take away the one who instituted marriage out of the equation.

9. HOW THEY ACT WHEN YOU GO THROUGH A TOUGH MOMENT.

When you are having a bad day, when you are in trouble, does the person console you, comfort you and encourage you; or do they avoid your tough moments, are they emotionally unavailable and belittle your feelings. A good spouse cares.

10. HOW THEY ACT AROUND PEOPLE WITH MORE MONEY AND LESS MONEY.

There are partners who only wants to be with you when it is rosy & all sunshine. When the going gets tough, they run away and look for a new spark. If the person treats people based on their financial status, be careful. You could be about to get married to an opportunist. A good person is consistent in how he/she handles people of different status.

I marry early, just 20 years old.
My husband na 24 that time.

We love ourself well-well.

E no even reach one month for our marriage, I don carry belle.

We happy as young couple wey dey expect their first pikin. We prepare everything down for the baby.

But na for delivery room my joy begin turn to pain.

I labour for almost 3 days.
When I finally born, na baby boy, but the baby come weak.

Two hours later, my pikin d!e.
I cry tire.
My husband too cry.

But we encourage ourself say, "We go try again."

Six months later, I carry belle again.
After 9 months — another stillbirth.

Third belle, the same thing happen.

Na so my family say, “This marriage no be for you. Come out, go complete your university.”

But I refuse. I love my husband. I believe say better go still happen.

Some people say na spiritual matter.
We begin waka from church to prophet, prayer upon prayer.

Prophet assure us say “This time, e go work.” I carry belle again, the fourth one.

I born the baby, the baby even cry small, but by evening the baby d!e.

Doctor call am “sudden infant death.” No explanation. Just fear.

Na that period doctor advise say make we give gap before we try again.

I tell my husband make we try adopt for now.
Him agree.

I call my cousin wey say she dey work for one motherless home. We give her over 1.6 million. Na so she dupe us carry money vanish.

My husband vex.
Say him no even believe for adoption before, na just to please me. Him say make I no ask am money again.

I begin follow the matter spiritually again.
Different prophecies, no solution.

One day, my friend tell me about one doctor for East wey young girls dey born give away babies for money.

Baby Boy na 1.5 million, girl na 1 million.
She say e legit.

I tell my husband, he say, "I no dey interestedand i no get any money to bring out."

I go borrow money.
I give my friend 600k as first payment.

One week later, na online I see video of my friend—dem dey beat her say she thief her neighbor pikin wan carry come give me.

I shock.
My heart cut.

I run go show my husband. He say, "Better no involve me for this matter"

Next day, police land arrest me.

My husband say, “Follow them go. I go get lawyer.”

I call my family, dem say, “As you no hear word when we try rescue you, make Love bail you out now.”

Just like play, I land prison.
No lawyer.
No family.

My husband visit me only 3 times. After that, silence.

My friend wey thief the baby, her people raise money bail her.

She promise to help me too. Nothing happen.

I stay 5 years for prison for matter I no understand finish.

Just because say I want born, just because say I no get patience, just because say I trust wrong people.

Different NGO dey come prison.
Dem go give us food, tissue, pad — and hope.

Many promise to help me after I share my story. But nothing come out.

Until one day, one woman wey be women advocate listen to me.

She promise to help. I no believe, but she really help me comot from jail.

When I reach house, my husband don move.
Don remarry with three children already.

When I go see am, him say make I find peace. Say our fate no match.

That day, I wan just disappear. I tell the woman wey help me. She say, “Come stay with me.”

She encourage me. Enrol me back for catering school make I refresh my baking skills.
From there I start my small baking business.

But inside me, I still dey cry.
I no even fit look mirror.
I don lose shape, lose beauty, lose hope.

One day, I go deliver wedding cake.

As i reach the venue the people bounce me — say I no fit enter because I look “dirty.” That day, I cry reach house.

I tell myself, “I go change this story.”

I download Pinterest app, dey learn how to dress my body type.

I watch make-up beginners videos.
I start to buy small affordable good clothes.

I begin dey apply simple makeup.
I switch to skin care wey dey moisturize my skin.

I begin see my beauty again.

Customers begin notice.
Begin compliment me.

I start dey take pictures. I start dey smile.

My self-confidence begin return.

One day, I go deliver cake again.
I dress well.

The bride say I fine. Na there one man collect my number, say na for business.

But na love him come find.

Him fine, young, tall — and kind.
I open up tell am everything.

He say, “Your past no be your name.
Let’s build something new.”

Today, I don marry again.
I don born two boys through CS operation.

Dem survive.
My first son na 4 years, second one 2 years.

My husband say no need to born again — these ones complete us. And truly, I no need anything else again.

I don finally become mama.

Today I dey grateful say After all my tough challenges God still change my story.

---

To every woman wey don carry belle with joy but return house empty-handed — this message na for you.

The pain of stillbirth no be small thing.

Na one deep wound wey only God fit understand.

Sometimes you go dey ask, “Why me?” Sometimes the silence go loud, the tears go come uninvited.

But make you hear this one: you never fail.
Your womb no betray you.

Your heart still be the heart of a mother.

And even if the world no see your kind of pain, God see am, and He go still comfort you in ways wey go shock you.

To the women wey don lose their self-esteem because dem no get money take take care of their body, or childbirth don change the way dem look —

My sister, remember say your beauty no end for body.

Start small, love yourself again, dress well, start with your budget, manage your weight if necessary.

Self love dey build back self esteem

You go rise again and glow in your own time.

To the women wey their husband don abandon them —

No carry your life hang for one person wey walk away.

God never walk away from you.

Stand up, dust your pain, start again.
Look good, take care of yourself.
You still fit laugh again, love again, and shine again.

To Every Woman and Family wey dey fight silent battles —

May God surprise you with joy wey go wipe all your secret tears.
Amen.

@highlight

*THE RESTORER'S DAILY GUIDE*

DATE: FRIDAY 13TH JUNE 2025

THEME: *KEEP YOURSELF*

MEMORIZE
1 John 5:18
We know that whosoever is born of God sinneth not; but he that is begotten of God keepeth himself, and that wicked one toucheth him not.

READ
John 10:17-18
Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down my life, that I might take it again.
No man taketh it from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have the power to lay it down, and I have the power to take it again. This commandment have I received of my Father.

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
*You will be kept by God if you keep yourself.*

MESSAGE
The wicked one is not permitted to touch lives that are kept by their owners.

If you keep yourself, you will be kept by God.

One of the greatest privileges of those born of God is the power to keep themselves from the enemy of their souls and lives.

A life that is kept is secured, strong, safe, and unscathed.

The bold assertion of the LORD in today's text is a testimony of the fact that the Lord Jesus Christ kept His life from being taken by the enemy.

It is only what we keep from the enemy that enjoys divine preservation. Satan steals, kills, and destroys cheaply what we fail to keep.

Those who fail to keep themselves have announced to Satan their availability for destruction.

When men fail to keep themselves, they make themselves available for death and destruction.

It is important to note that the only people that God has on earth are those who have kept themselves.

Knowing what to keep yourself from, where to keep yourself, how to keep yourself, and keeping yourself is superior intelligence than that of the serpent that eats fallen men and women.

Those who know how to keep themselves are smarter than the serpent. God keeps them from evil and preserves them for His mighty works on the earth and for posterity.

A life that is kept is not easily touched by the enemy.

Many people are battling with so many unsavoury issues today due to the fact that they were not able to keep themselves.

For instance, those who fail to keep themselves from alcohol may face alcohol related issues in their health progressively, those who expose themselves to immorality are likely to be infested with sexually transmitted diseases, those who expose themselves to cigarettes are not likely to escape certain illnesses related to smoking of cigarettes, those who expose themselves to violence and reckless living are likely to die young. The list is endless of the things people expose themselves to and entangled themselves with in life, leading to so many issues and painful regrets.

Beloved, take my counsel today whilst your life is still whole in you, keep yourself free from sin, and you will be exempted from its ugly consequences.

The truth is that you can keep yourself. It's within your divine powers.

*You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.*

ACTION STEPS
1. Prayerfully meditate on today's devotional guide.
2. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you keep yourself from everything that destroys men
3. Be determined to stay kept by God.

REMEMBER
*You will be kept by God if you keep yourself.*

PRAYERS
Dear heavenly Father, Thank you for today's devotional guide. I receive grace to be kept by God from every evil and to stay preserved by God in Jesus' name. Amen.

AUTHOR: JEDIDIAH DAVID

DAILY READING:
2 Chronicles 1-2; Psalms 67-78; Mark 14-16; Ephesians 1-2;

HYMN
What a Friend we have in Jesus,
All our sins and griefs to bear !
What a privilege to carry
Everything to God in prayer !
Oh, what peace we often forfeit,
Oh, what needless pain we bear------
All because we do not carry
Everything to God in prayer !

2
Have we trials and temptations ?
Is there trouble anywhere ?
We should never be discouraged ;
Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a Friend so faithful,
Who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness-----
Take it to the Lord in prayer !

3
Are we weak and heavy-laden,
Cumbered with a load of care ?
Precious Saviour, still our refuge-----
Take it to the Lord in prayer.
Do thy friends despise, forsake thee ?
Take it to the Lord in prayer ;
In His arms He'll take and shield thee.
Thou wilt find a solace there,

PLEASE SHARE

STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE

ADDRESS BY PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU, GCFR
AT THE JOINT SESSION OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY IN COMMEMORATION OF
DEMOCRACY DAY, 2025

THURSDAY, 12TH JUNE 2025

Protocol:

With profound honour, I stand before this joint session of our National Assembly; a parliament that embodies the will of the Nigerian people.

2. Today, as I entered this grand edifice built from the sweat and toil of our democratic yearning, my heart stirred. It was a blend of accomplishment and resolve.

3. I felt a sense of collective accomplishment when I realised how far we
had come as a nation. Since 1999, democracy has risen from the ashes and
destitution of military rule to take its rightful place as the only mode of
governance of our resilient and beloved people.

4. With every footstep I took through these hallowed halls up to the
moment I now stand before you, I remembered that we still have much
further to go.

5. To achieve this progress, we sought an elective office to lead this
nation forward. Thus, I hereby affirm before our Merciful and Almighty God
and all men my resolve to do all that I can to safeguard and build our
democracy as the Divine hand intends for us to do.

6. Since 2018, we have celebrated Democracy Day on this day; to
commemorate the sacrifices of the men and women who fought to restore
democratic governance to Nigeria.

7. Let me pay tribute to former President Muhammadu Buhari for
reaching back into history to rectify a national misdeed by making June 12
Democracy Day and by officially acknowledging Chief Moshood Kashimawo
Olawale Abiola and his running mate, Babagana Kingibe, as the victors and
thus duly elected President and Vice President respectively of Nigeria after
the June 12, 1993 elections.

8. Year by year, election after election, every time we debate instead of
battle, discuss instead of fight, and argue instead of destroy, we preserve
the institutions of democracy. More importantly, we weave the culture of
democracy into the very fabric of our nation.

9. Whilst Chief MKO Abiola is June 12's central figure, we must not forget
the long list of those who equally deserve to be called heroes of Nigerian
democracy.
10. We must celebrate the courage of Alhaja Kudirat Abiola and Pa Alfred
Rewane, both of whom were murdered by agents of military repression. We
also remember the many civil rights activists, journalists, and politicians
imprisoned, exiled, tossed aside, tortured and beaten by the military regime.

11. We remember Chief Anthony Enahoro, Commodore Dan Suleiman,
Chief Abraham Adesanya, Ayo Adebanjo, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Balarabe
Musa, Ganiyu Dawodu, the journalist Bagauda Kaltho, and Commodore
Ndubuisi Kanu. I mention these names not to exclude or degrade the
profound contributions of anyone else, but to illustrate, through these few
heroes, the universality of our pursuit of democracy.

12. The struggle was never the province of any one group or section of the
country, it was pan-Nigerian in its conception and will be even more pan-
Nigerian as we strive to perfect it.

13. It is fitting that I come to this chamber. You are the authors of the
people's law, and I must be their faithful implementer. While we may not
always agree, we must forge a way to work together because this is what
democracy demands of us. I pledge myself to this cooperation and ask that
you do the same for the good of our people.

14. Mr. Chairman, the National Assembly has acted to uphold democratic
ideals at every critical moment in our national history. In 2006, the 5th
National Assembly protected our democracy against an unseemly third-term
bid that would have ripped our constitution apart. In 2010, the National
Assembly, through the doctrine of necessity, opened the door for then-Vice
President Goodluck Jonathan to become the acting President following the
illness of his predecessor.

15. Even under the military, the National Assembly tried to protect our
democracy. After General Abacha took over power on November 17, 1993,
and dissolved the National Assembly, some of us, led by Senator Ameh
Ebute, the Senate President in the 3rd Republic, defied the General and his
goons to reconvene in the Old Parliament Building in Lagos. We were jailed
for our defiance.

16. On behalf of a grateful nation, I commend your invaluable role in
lawmaking, oversight, and constituency representation.

17. At this point, I plead for your indulgence so that I may put a terrible rumour to bed.

18. To those who ring the alarm that the APC is intent on a one-party state,
I offer you a most personal promise. While your alarm may be as a result of
your panic, it rings in error. At no time in the past, nor any instance in the
present, and at no future juncture shall I view the notion of a one-party state
as good for Nigeria. I have never attempted to alter any political party
registration with INEC. Equally, my friends, we cannot blame anybody
seeking to bail out of a sinking ship even without a life jacket.

19. Look at my political history. I would be the last person to advocate such
a scheme. In 2003, when the then-governing party tried to sweep the nation
clean of political opposition through plot and manipulation, I was the last of
the progressive governors standing in my region.

20. In all their numbers and false grandeur, they boasted of ruling, not
governing, Nigeria for the next half century or more. Where are they now?

21. Yet, I stood alone. My allies had been induced into defeat. My
adversaries held all the cards that mortal man could carry. Even with all of
that, they could not control our national destiny because fate is written from
above. A greater power did not want Nigeria to become a one-party state
back then. Nigeria will not become such a state now.

22. The failed effort to create a one-party state placed progressive political
forces on a trajectory to form the APC. It put me on the trajectory which has
brought me before you today. I dare not do such a favour to any political
adversary by repeating the same mistake of political overreach.

23. A one-party state is not in the offing. Nor should it ever be. That said,
we would be guilty of political malpractice if we closed the door on those from
other parties who now seek to join the APC and I sincerely welcome our
party’s newest members from Delta and Akwa Ibom States led by Governor
Sheriff Oborevwori and Pastor Umo Eno and other members of this National
Assembly.

24. Political parties fearful of members leaving may be better served by
examining their internal processes and affairs rather than fearfully conjuring
up demons that do not exist. For me, I would say try your best to put your
house in order. I will not help you do so. It is, indeed, a pleasure to witness
you in such disarray.

25. We must welcome and accept the diversity and number of political
parties just as we welcome and embrace the diversity of our population. Our
efforts must never be to eliminate political competition but to make that
competition salutary to the national well-being by working across the political
aisle whenever possible.

26. One area in which democracy calls us to work together, whether in the
legislative or executive branch, whether in this or other political parties, is
that of economic and social development.

27. Upon assuming office, my team and I moved to reform our ailing
economy. We introduced fundamental reforms to correct structural
imbalances that prevented maximum growth.

28. We are already seeing results. GDP grew by 3.4 per cent in 2024, with
Q4 hitting 4.6 per cent, the highest quarter of growth in over a decade.
Inflation is easing gradually, steadying the price of food staples like rice and
beans. Our net foreign reserves have increased fivefold, and the Naira
exchange rate has stabilised. Our balance of payments position is positive;
our sovereign credit rating is improving as we continue to promote oil and
non-oil exports. States now do not need to go about borrowing to pay
salaries.

29. In less than one year, over one hundred thousand Nigerians, including thirty-five thousand civil servants, have benefited from affordable consumer credit through the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP), enabling them to purchase vehicles, light up and improve their homes and purchase life essentials. This July, we will launch a bold new initiative to empower four hundred thousand young Nigerians, including youth corpers, with consumer credit.

30. We are committed to giving more opportunities to young people through job creation and skills development. Through such programs as NELFUND, we are investing in education, vocational training, apprenticeships, and internships to ensure our youth are job-ready and
future-ready.

31. In addition, we have embarked on an ambitious project to lay fibre optic cables across the nation, a transformative step toward bridging the digital divide and fostering greater connectivity. This initiative promises not only to enhance the speed and reliability of internet access but also to revolutionize how businesses operate, how students learn, and how communities stay connected. By extending this critical infrastructure, we are empowering entrepreneurs, enabling digital education, and providing the tools for our youth to compete in a globalized world.

32. Our "Nigeria First" policy will further enhance progress as we consolidate market-driven growth. The improved economic performance is encouraging and validates the soundness of our policy measures. Our medium-term growth target remains an economy growing at a 7 per cent clip with a stronger manufacturing base. We must learn to produce and grow most of our food and we are on the path to achieving food sovereignty.

33. These and other reforms have placed the economy on a more rational footing where critical decisions regarding large-scale investment can now be made.

34. I ask you, the legislature, to join me as we enter the second half of our term to put forth innovative legislation that further encourages industrial development and job creation in our urban centres while also drafting laws that improve food security and production.

35. To further underpin our economic vision, we introduced a comprehensive Tax Reform Package, a vital component of our economic re- engineering. I am deeply grateful to both chambers for your thorough consideration and deliberation of these bills, and I look forward to signing them into law soon.

36. Again, your collaboration across party lines on these bills has been a model of democratic partnership.

37. As elected leaders, we must continue to do more to make real the dream of Nigeria's political and economic democracy.

38. We must be vigilant in expanding the political space. We must always value dialogue over dictatorship, persuasion over suppression and rights over might. Be tolerant and broad-minded in your legislative action regarding speech and civil liberties.

39. Do not be afraid to hear an unkind word spoken against you. Some of the best advice a politician gets sometimes comes from his most ferocious opponents. We dare not seek silence because the imposed silence of repressed voices breeds chaos and ill will, not the harmonics of democracy in the long term.

40. While malicious slander and libel should not go unattended, no one should bear the brunt of injustice for merely writing a bad report about me or calling me names. Democracy requires a fair degree of tolerance for harsh words and stinging insults. Call me names, call me whatever you will, and I will still call upon democracy to defend your right to do so. Mr. Senate President, Mr. Speaker, Distinguished Senators and Honourable Members.

41. Our nation is not perfect, but it is strong. Our democracy is not invincible, but it is alive. And this means our dream of a prosperous, happy nation is still within reach and worth fighting for.

42. Mr. Chairman, Nigeria is at an inflexion point, undergoing structural and fundamental change toward a secure future.

43. Our administration is fully committed to boosting the economy's productive base. Through investment in critical infrastructure, roads, expansion of port operations, rail, and power we are creating a new environment in which industry and manufacturing can thrive. Our tax and fiscal policy reforms will streamline tax administration and eliminate burdensome and multiple taxes enabling our industrialists and entrepreneurs to operate in a more conducive environment.

44. Governance must work and deliver value to the people. As part of our tax reforms, we have provided small businesses with an exemption and established the Office of the Tax Ombudsman to ensure transparency and protect taxpayer rights. Digital tools now help us track performance and reduce waste. The Diaspora Bond and Non-Resident BVN are bringing
Nigerians abroad into the national development fold.

45. In line with my promise during my New Year address to the nation, I recently appointed the board of directors of the newly established National Credit Guarantee Company. The company backed with 100 billion naira in initial capital; with BOI, which, by the way, is performing very well in supporting SMEs, NSIA, CreditCorp, and MOFI as stakeholders, will play a significant role in transforming the nation's industrial landscape and reducing
corruption.

46. National Security is the foundation of peace and progress. We have intensified security operations to reclaim communities from criminals and terrorists. We are better at coordinating intelligence, and inter-agency cooperation has improved. Our highways are safer, and we invest in technology and training to secure every inch of this country.

47. Let us take this opportunity to thank the men and women of our Armed Forces for their bravery in service of the nation. Their selfless dedication to protecting our sovereignty and ensuring the safety of citizens should serve as an inspiration to us all. As we celebrate the progress of our democracy, we must not forget the pivotal role they play in safeguarding our freedoms. For their courage and commitment, they deserve not only our gratitude but
also our continued support, prayers and recognition.

48. Fellow compatriots, our achievements are not the work of one man. They are the result of a collective effort to make possible the Nigerian Dream. Yet, the journey is not over. We must work even harder to translate broad macroeconomic gains into tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary Nigerians. We must stay the course, reject cynicism, and believe Nigeria can and will rise again.

49. As we mark a twenty-sixth year of unbroken democracy, it is right to honour those who have made sacrifices in the past, braving all the odds and the guns to ensure we have a regime of democracy in our country.

50. In this light, I announce the conferment of the posthumous national honour of CFR on Kudirat Abiola, the heroine of the June 12 struggle.

51. I also confer posthumous national honours on Shehu Musa Yar’Adua (GCFR), Prof. Humphrey Nwosu (CON), Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu (CON), Alhaji Balarabe Musa (CFR), Pa. Alfred Rewani (CFR), Bagauda Kaltho (OON), Chima Ubani (OON), Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti (CON), Alao Aka Bashorun (CON), Chief Frank Kokori (CON), Emma Ezeazu (OON), Bamidele Aturu (OON), Fredrick Fasehun (CON), Professor Festus Iyayi (CON), Dr John Yima Sen (OON), Alhaja Sawaba Gambo (CON), Dr. Edwin Madunagu (CON), Dr. Alex Ibru (CON), Chief Bola Ige (CFR), Pa. Reuben Fasoranti (CFR), Sen. Ayo Fasanmi (CON), Sen. Polycarp Nwite (CON) and Dr. Nurudeen Olowopopo (CON).

52. I also confer national honours on Prof. Wole Soyinka (GCON), Prof. Olatunji Dare (CON), the journalist and journalism teacher; Kunle Ajibade (OON); Nosa Igiebor (OON), Dapo Olorunyomi (OON), Bayo Onanuga (CON), Ayo Obe (OON), Dare Babarinsa (CON), Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah (CON), Senator Shehu Sani (CON), Governor Uba Sani (CON), Barrister Femi Falana, SAN (CON), Prof. Shafideen Amuwo (CON), Barrister Luke Aghanenu (OON), Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi (CON), Hon. Labaran Maku (OON), Dr. Tunji Alausa (CON), Mr Nick Dazang (OON), Hon Abdul Oroh (OON), Odia Ofeimun (CON), Seye Kehinde (OON), Barrister Felix Morka (CON) Barrister Ledum Mitee (CON), Hon. Olawale Osun (CON), Dr. Amos Akingba (CON), Prof. Segun Gbadegesin (CON), Mobolaji Akinyemi (CFR), Dr. Kayode Shonoiki (CON), Prof. Julius Ihonvbere (CON), Prof. Bayo Williams (CON), Sen. Abu Ibrahim (CFR), and Sen. Ameh Ebute (CFR), General Alani Akinrinade, GCON.

53. Additionally, I confer the national honour of CON on Uncle Sam Amuka Pemu, a legendary journalist and publisher who remains true to his lifetime calling as he marks his 90th birthday tomorrow, June 13.

54. Furthermore, I also confer posthumous national honours on Ken Saro Wiwa (CON), the leader of the Ogoni Nine and his fellow travellers, Saturday Dobee (OON), Nordu Eawo (OON), Daniel Gbooko (OON), Paul Levera (OON), Felix Nuate (OON), Baribor Bera (OON), Barinem Kiobel (OON), and John Kpuine (OON). I shall also be exercising my powers under the prerogative of mercy to grant these national heroes a full pardon, together with others whose names shall be announced later in conjunction with the National Council of State.

55. Finally, it is my great privilege to now decorate the presiding officers of the National Assembly with the National Honours earlier conferred upon them last year:

Presiding National Assembly Officers

Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, GCON – SENATE PRESIDENT
Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, GCON - Speaker
Senator Jibrin Ibrahim Barau, CFR – DEPUTY SENATE PRESIDENT
Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, CFR - Deputy Speaker

56. In conclusion, let us rededicate ourselves to the ideals of June 12; freedom, transparent and accountable government, social justice, active citizen participation, and a just society where no one is oppressed.

57. Happy Democracy Day, and may God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria and protect our troops.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
President, Commander-in-Chief of The Armed Forces,
Federal Republic of Nigeria