The Federal Government has declared Thursday, June 12, a public holiday in celebration of the 2025 Democracy Day.
This was made known in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Mrs Magdalene Ajani.
According to the statement, the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the holiday on behalf of the Federal Government. He used the opportunity to congratulate Nigerians on 26 years of uninterrupted democratic governance.
“June 12 represents our historic journey to building a nation where truth and justice reign, peace is sustained, and our future assured,” the Minister said.
He described the past 26 years as a testimony of Nigeria’s strength, unity, and enduring hope in the face of challenges. Tunji-Ojo noted that Nigeria’s continued democratic journey reflects the courage and resilience of its people.
He also highlighted the importance of Democracy Day, saying it is a time to remember the sacrifices made to secure the right to vote and choose leaders freely.
Democracy Day is observed annually in Nigeria on June 12 to commemorate the annulled 1993 presidential election, widely believed to have been won by Chief Moshood Kashimawo Abiola. The election is regarded as one of the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history. However, it was cancelled by the military regime at the time, sparking nationwide protests and years of struggle for democratic rule.
The day was officially recognised as Democracy Day in 2018, replacing May 29, which was previously observed as the day of return to civilian rule.
Tunji-Ojo reaffirmed the Tinubu-led administration’s commitment to deepening democratic values in Nigeria. He said President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda prioritises the will of the people and aims to improve the nation’s political, economic, and social systems.
“The Renewed Hope government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to the universal values of democracy based on the freely-expressed will of the people,” he added.
As the nation prepares to mark this important day, the government is calling on all Nigerians to reflect on the progress made and continue working together for a better future.
