In a heartfelt message to mark Democracy Day on June 12, 2026, Engr. Ahmadu Musa Kida, CON, President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) and Chairman of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), paid tribute to the courage and sacrifices of Nigerians who fought for justice, freedom, and democratic governance. He described June 12 as more than a calendar date, emphasizing it as a powerful symbol of democracy earned through sacrifice and sustained by collective hope and determination.
Kida highlighted that the true strength of Nigeria lies not merely in its resources or institutions, but in the character, unity, and aspirations of its people. Despite ethnic, religious, and political differences, he noted that Nigerians are bound by a common destiny and an enduring belief in the nation’s promise, calling for a renewed focus on these shared values.
The NNPCL Chairman specifically urged young Nigerians to remain hopeful and actively participate in nation-building. He acknowledged the real challenges facing the country but expressed confidence that they are not greater than the determination, creativity, and resilience inherent in the Nigerian spirit, drawing on the nation’s history of overcoming adversity.
Drawing from his experience in sports leadership, Kida illustrated the power of collective effort by referencing basketball. He observed how Nigerians from all corners unite behind a common purpose on the court, where victory comes through teamwork, discipline, sacrifice, and shared commitment to excellence—lessons he said apply equally to national development.
As Chairman of NNPCL, Kida praised the dedication of Nigerians contributing daily to economic growth and national progress. He stressed that democracy is a shared responsibility, not solely that of elected leaders, and called on citizens to uphold accountability, mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, and faith in national institutions.
Kida concluded by encouraging Nigerians to use the occasion to renew their commitment to a nation where every child can dream without limits, hard work is rewarded, and unity triumphs over division. He described Nigeria’s story as one still being written—one of courage, perseverance, and endless possibilities that future generations will proudly inherit through collective unity, progress, and shared prosperity.
