FG declares June 12 public holiday to mark Democracy Day

The Federal Government has declared Thursday, June 12, 2025, as a public holiday to commemorate this year’s Democracy Day, marking 26 uninterrupted years of civilian rule in Nigeria.

The announcement was made in a statement issued on Sunday by Mrs. Magdalene Ajani, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Interior.

According to the statement, Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government, extending congratulations to Nigerians for their resilience and commitment to democratic governance.

“June 12 represents our historic journey to building a nation where truth and justice reign, peace is sustained, and our future assured,” Tunji-Ojo stated.

He emphasized that the last 26 years of democratic governance reflect the country’s resilience, strength, courage, and a renewed sense of national hope.

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The minister also reaffirmed the commitment of the Renewed Hope administration led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to uphold democratic ideals rooted in the freely-expressed will of the people.

“The Tinubu-led government remains devoted to strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring the active participation of citizens in shaping Nigeria’s political, economic, social, and cultural systems,” the statement added.

June 12 was officially designated as Nigeria’s Democracy Day in 2018 to honor the legacy of the annulled 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest in the nation’s history. The date has since become symbolic of Nigeria’s enduring struggle for democracy and good governance.

As preparations for the national celebration continue, citizens across the country are expected to mark the day with reflection, civic engagement, and nationwide events highlighting Nigeria’s democratic journey.