Federal Government Declares June 12 Democracy Day Holiday, Celebrates 26 Years of Civil Rule

 

FG Declares June 12 Public Holiday to Celebrate Democracy Day, Lauds Nation’s Democratic Journey

The Federal Government has formally declared Thursday, June 12, 2025, as a national public holiday in celebration of Nigeria’s Democracy Day, a moment that marks 26 uninterrupted years of civil governance in the country. The announcement was conveyed through a statement issued by Mrs. Magdalene Ajani, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Interior, on Sunday in Abuja.

Acting on behalf of the Federal Government, the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration and extended warm congratulations to all Nigerians. He described June 12 as a symbol of Nigeria’s democratic odyssey—one carved through sacrifice, courage, and an unshakable commitment to justice and equity.

"June 12 represents our historic journey to building a nation where truth and justice reign and peace is sustained and our future assured,” said the Minister. His remarks reflected not only a moment of national pride but also a reaffirmation of Nigeria’s collective desire to remain firmly anchored in the principles of democracy.

A day rich in significance, June 12 stands as a powerful reminder of the democratic struggles and victories of the Nigerian people. It recalls the watershed 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as one of the freest and fairest polls in the country’s history, and the ensuing pushback against authoritarian rule that eventually birthed the Fourth Republic in 1999.

Rather than a mere holiday, Tunji-Ojo emphasized, June 12 should be embraced as a day of national reflection and unity—a chance to celebrate not just democratic processes but also the spirit that has sustained them through political storms and institutional challenges. “The last 26 years tell the story of our resilience, strength and courage, and a hope renewed like never before,” he added.

Citizens across the country are expected to observe the day with a mixture of solemn reflection and vibrant national pride. State-sponsored events, speeches, and community gatherings are typically held to honor the democratic heritage and remember those who paid the ultimate price for Nigeria's return to civilian governance.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, operating under the banner of the "Renewed Hope" agenda, has also reiterated its unwavering commitment to democratic values. The Tinubu government has consistently voiced its intention to foster a political environment driven by accountability, citizen participation, and respect for the rule of law.

According to Tunji-Ojo, the current government recognizes the value of a democracy grounded in the freely-expressed will of the people. He reaffirmed that Nigeria’s political, economic, social, and cultural systems must be determined by the people themselves. This, he said, is the cornerstone of every functioning democracy and a non-negotiable pillar of the Renewed Hope agenda.

Reflecting on the two and a half decades of democratic governance, many Nigerians see June 12 as not only a national celebration but a call to deepen democratic institutions and expand civic engagement. The significance of the date continues to inspire a generation of young Nigerians, many of whom were born after 1999 and have only known a Nigeria led by civilian governments.

With June 12 fast approaching, preparations are underway across the country for commemorative activities. From lectures and symposiums to cultural displays and public addresses, the holiday will offer Nigerians a platform to engage with their democratic identity and envision its future trajectory.

While the day carries celebratory overtones, it also invites scrutiny and introspection. For many, it is a time to assess how far the nation has come—and how far it still needs to go to achieve a more inclusive, transparent, and equitable democratic society.

As Nigeria steps into the 27th year of its Fourth Republic, the Democracy Day celebration on June 12 is set to not only honor past sacrifices but also kindle a renewed sense of purpose in the ongoing journey toward national unity and democratic excellence.