The Federal Government has announced Thursday, June 12, 2025, as a public holiday in commemoration of this year’s Democracy Day. The declaration was made known to the public through an official statement issued on Sunday in Abuja by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani.
According to the statement, the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who made the announcement on behalf of the Federal Government, used the occasion to extend warm greetings to Nigerians, applauding the country’s enduring democratic journey. He described June 12 as a significant date in the nation’s political history, symbolizing Nigeria’s collective march towards truth, justice, peace, and national unity.
The minister noted that this year’s Democracy Day celebration coincides with an already shortened work week, as Monday, June 9, was previously declared a public holiday for the Eid-el-Kabir festival. With this development, Nigerians are set to enjoy two work-free days within a five-day week.
While reflecting on the significance of the occasion, Tunji-Ojo highlighted Nigeria’s progress since the restoration of democratic governance in 1999, emphasizing that the last 26 years of civilian rule stand as evidence of the people’s resilience and commitment to national development. He stated that the journey, though challenging, has remained a testament to the determination of Nigerians to uphold the ideals of freedom and participatory governance.
“The Democracy Day celebration is a solemn reminder of our unwavering commitment to building a nation founded on truth and justice, where peace thrives and hope is renewed,” Tunji-Ojo remarked.
He reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s dedication to strengthening democratic values, noting that the “Renewed Hope” agenda is rooted in the people’s will and designed to enhance participatory governance across all facets of national life. The minister stressed that democracy must not only be sustained but also deepened through collective responsibility and institutional accountability.
Democracy Day, observed annually on June 12, honours the memory of the annulled 1993 presidential election, an exercise widely recognised as the most credible in Nigeria’s electoral history. It also pays tribute to the sacrifices and struggles that ultimately culminated in the return to civilian rule in 1999, ending decades of military governance.
As the nation marks another year of democratic governance, the Federal Government has called on citizens to reflect on the gains made and to remain active participants in the democratic process, with a shared vision of a united, peaceful, and prosperous Nigeria.
