June 12: Honoring Nigeria's Historic Strides towards Democracy

The Nigerian federal government has announced that Thursday, June 12, 2025, will be a public holiday to celebrate this year's Democracy Day.

This declaration, made by the Ministry of Interior on Sunday, follows the earlier designation of Monday, June 9, as a public holiday for the Eid-el-Kabir festivities.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Magdalene Ajani, confirmed the announcement in a statement issued in Abuja, which was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of the federal government.

Tunji-Ojo remarked that the June 12 commemoration serves as a reflection of the nation’s ongoing democratic journey and the values that support it.

He stated, “June 12 symbolizes our historic efforts towards establishing a nation where truth and justice prevail, peace is maintained, and our future is secured.”

In relation to recent events, he emphasized the need to reflect on the past 26 years of civilian governance, which he described as a testament to Nigeria's resilience and ability to overcome obstacles while upholding democratic principles.

"The last 26 years narrate our story of resilience, strength, courage, and renewed hope," he added.

The minister reiterated the present administration’s dedication to democratic ideals under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, asserting that the federal government will continue to uphold the core values of democracy, such as honoring the will of the people in shaping Nigeria’s political, economic, and social frameworks.

While federal holidays are applicable to all public institutions and most private sector operations nationwide, essential services are often exempted.

Some private businesses, including retail and manufacturing, usually proceed with their operations based on their own schedules. June 12 was officially designated as Nigeria’s Democracy Day in 2018 to commemorate the 1993 presidential election, which is widely recognized as the country’s most free and fair election, and to acknowledge the fight for democratic governance.