THE Federal Government has declared Friday, June 12, 2026, a public holiday in commemoration of this year’s Democracy Day.
The announcement was made in a statement issued today by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Magdalene Ajani, on behalf of the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
According to the statement, the declaration underscores the significance of June 12 in Nigeria’s democratic history and honours the courage, sacrifices and resilience of citizens who fought for democratic governance.
The Minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to democratic values, including the rule of law, transparency, accountability and inclusive governance, noting that the current administration remains dedicated to strengthening these principles.
He also emphasised the importance of a secure and stable environment in sustaining democracy and driving national development.
To this end, the Ministry of Interior, working alongside relevant security agencies, will continue efforts to enhance internal security and safeguard lives and property across the country.
Tunji-Ojo urged Nigerians to use the occasion as a moment of reflection, encouraging citizens to uphold the law, demonstrate responsible citizenship and promote national unity.
“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,” the statement said.
Significance of June 12
June 12 is celebrated annually as Nigeria’s Democracy Day and commemorates the 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest in the nation’s history.
The election was won by Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, but the results were annulled by the military government, triggering widespread protests and intensifying demands for a return to democratic rule.
For nearly two decades, Nigeria observed Democracy Day on May 29, marking the handover from military to civilian rule in 1999.
However, in 2018, former President Muhammadu Buhari officially moved the celebration to June 12 in recognition of the significance of the 1993 election and the sacrifices made by pro-democracy activists.
In 2025, former military Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), publicly acknowledged for the first time that MKO Abiola won the June 12, 1993 presidential election, expressing regret over its annulment more than three decades after the event.
Democracy Day is typically marked with official ceremonies, civic engagements and national reflections on Nigeria’s democratic journey and the responsibilities of citizens in strengthening democratic institutions.
