The Federal Government has declared Friday, June 12, 2026, a public holiday to commemorate this year’s Democracy Day celebration.
The declaration was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of the Federal Government.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani.
According to the statement, June 12 remains a significant date in Nigeria’s history, symbolizing the courage, resilience, and sacrifices of Nigerians whose collective efforts contributed to the entrenchment of democratic governance in the country.
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The government noted that the legacy of the June 12 struggle continues to shape the values and responsibilities of the Nigerian state and serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting democratic institutions.
Tunji-Ojo reaffirmed the commitment of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to preserving and strengthening democratic ideals, including the rule of law, transparency, accountability, and inclusive governance.
“The administration remains committed to upholding these democratic principles without compromise and ensuring that the gains of democracy continue to benefit all Nigerians,” the minister stated.
He added that the Ministry of Interior, in collaboration with relevant security agencies, would continue to strengthen internal security measures aimed at protecting lives and property across the country.
According to him, a secure and stable environment remains essential for the growth of democracy and sustainable national development.
The minister urged Nigerians to use the occasion of Democracy Day for reflection on the nation’s democratic journey and to recommit themselves to responsible citizenship, national unity, and peaceful coexistence.
“As we mark this historic day, every Nigerian is encouraged to remain law-abiding, uphold the institutions that sustain our democracy, and remember that the strength of any democracy lies ultimately in the character of its citizens,” he said.
Democracy Day is celebrated annually on June 12 in honour of the historic 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest election in Nigeria’s history.
Former President Muhammadu Buhari officially declared June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day on June 6, 2018, replacing May 29, which had previously been observed as Democracy Day. The Public Holiday Amendment Act formally recognizing June 12 as a national public holiday was signed into law on June 10, 2019.