By Abiola Olawale
The Federal Government has declared Thursday, June 12, 2025, a public holiday to commemorate Democracy Day.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
The announcement was contained in a press statement issued by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Interior, Dr Magdalene Ajani.
The minister congratulated Nigerians on the occasion of 26 years of uninterrupted civil rule.
He was quoted as saying: “June 12 represents our historic journey to building a nation where truth and justice reign and peace is sustained and our future assured.
“The last 26 years tell the story of our resilience, strength, courage, and a hope renewed than ever.”
The New Diplomat reports that Democracy Day, celebrated annually on June 12, commemorates the historic 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest, where Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola emerged as the presumed winner.
The date, officially recognized as a national holiday since 2018 under former President Muhammadu Buhari, also honors Abiola’s legacy and the pro-democracy movement.
The statement also revealed that FG has lined up activities to mark the 2025 celebration, including a public lecture on June 11, a youth program, and a grand parade at Eagle Square, Abuja, on June 12. President Bola Tinubu is also expected to deliver a national broadcast at 7 a.m. on the holiday.
