The Federal Government has declared Friday, June 12, 2026, a public holiday to commemorate Democracy Day, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening democratic governance, national unity and the rule of law.
The declaration was announced in a statement issued on Thursday by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, on behalf of the Federal Government.
According to the statement, the annual observance of June 12 remains a significant milestone in Nigeria’s democratic journey and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by citizens in the struggle for democratic governance.
The government noted that the date symbolizes the courage, resilience and determination of Nigerians whose efforts helped entrench democratic rule and shape the country’s political evolution.
“June 12 remains a significant day in Nigeria’s history in honour of the courage, resilience and sacrifices of Nigerians whose efforts made democratic governance possible in this country,” the statement said.
The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to upholding democratic values, including transparency, accountability, inclusive governance and adherence to the rule of law.
He emphasized that the Federal Government would continue to strengthen democratic institutions and promote policies that support national development and citizen participation in governance.
Tunji-Ojo also assured Nigerians that the Ministry of Interior, working closely with relevant security agencies, would sustain efforts to guarantee internal security and protect lives and property across the country.
According to him, peace and security remain fundamental to the survival of democracy and the advancement of national progress.
The minister urged Nigerians to use the Democracy Day holiday as an opportunity to reflect on their civic responsibilities and recommit themselves to lawful conduct, responsible citizenship and national unity.
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“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 stated.
The Federal Government further called on citizens to observe the holiday peacefully while reflecting on the importance of democratic governance in promoting national cohesion, political stability and sustainable development.
Democracy Day is observed annually on June 12 in recognition of the country’s democratic journey and the enduring struggle for representative governance in Nigeria.
