Federal Government Declares Thursday Public Holiday to Commemorate Democracy Day

Federal Government
The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially declared Thursday, June 12, 2025, a public holiday to mark Democracy Day, a significant occasion celebrating the nation’s commitment to democratic governance. The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, through a statement issued by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Magdalene Ajani, in Abuja. This declaration underscores the importance of reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey and honoring the sacrifices made to sustain it.

Democracy Day, observed annually on June 12, commemorates the historic 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as one of the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history, won by the late Chief Moshood Abiola, though the results were annulled. The day also serves as a reminder of the resilience of Nigerians in upholding democratic principles despite past challenges, including military rule and political instability. The 2025 celebration marks 26 years of uninterrupted democratic governance since the return to civilian rule in 1999, a milestone the government seeks to highlight through this public holiday.

In his statement, Minister Tunji-Ojo congratulated Nigerians for their steadfastness in maintaining democracy and urged citizens to reflect on the contributions of the nation’s founding fathers and heroes. He emphasized the importance of unity, peace, and progress, calling on Nigerians to remain committed to these values in the face of ongoing national challenges. The minister also encouraged collective efforts to build a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria for future generations, aligning with the government’s broader vision for development.

The public holiday provides an opportunity for Nigerians to participate in various commemorative activities, including public lectures, rallies, and cultural events organized across the country to celebrate democratic achievements. Government offices, schools, and many private institutions are expected to close, allowing citizens to engage in these events or spend time with family and friends. The declaration also serves as a call to action for citizens to recommit to democratic ideals such as accountability, transparency, and good governance.

This announcement aligns with the Federal Government’s tradition of marking significant national events with public holidays to foster unity and reflection. Previous Democracy Day celebrations have included tributes to key figures in Nigeria’s democratic struggle, such as Chief Abiola, Kudirat Abiola, and other activists who fought for the restoration of democracy. The 2025 holiday is expected to follow this tradition, with official events likely to be held in Abuja and other major cities.

The Ministry of Interior has assured the public that security measures will be in place to ensure peaceful celebrations across the nation. Citizens are encouraged to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and adhere to safety guidelines during public gatherings. The government also reiterated its commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and promoting inclusive governance as part of the Democracy Day observance.

As Nigeria continues to navigate economic and social challenges, the declaration of this public holiday serves as both a celebration and a reminder of the work still needed to deepen democratic practices. The government’s call for unity and progress resonates with ongoing efforts to address issues such as insecurity, economic diversification, and social cohesion. By setting aside June 12, 2025, as a day of reflection, the Federal Government aims to inspire Nigerians to actively participate in shaping the nation’s democratic future.

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