June 12: FG Declares Friday Public Holiday

 

The Federal Government has declared Friday, June 12, 2026, a public holiday to commemorate this year’s Democracy Day.

The announcement was made in a statement issued on Thursday 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 highlights the government’s recognition of June 12 as a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey and a tribute to the courage, resilience and sacrifices of citizens who fought for democratic governance.

The Minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to preserving democratic ideals, including the rule of law, transparency, accountability and inclusive governance, noting that the current administration remains committed to upholding these principles.

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He also stressed that maintaining a secure environment is essential for sustaining democracy and advancing national development.

He added that the Ministry of Interior, in collaboration with relevant security agencies, will continue to strengthen internal security measures to protect lives and property across the country.

The Minister urged Nigerians to use the occasion for civic reflection and to recommit themselves to lawful conduct, responsible citizenship and 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 quoted the Minister as saying.

 

June 12

 

June 12 is observed annually as Nigeria’s official Democracy Day and commemorates the 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest in the country’s history.

The election was won by Moshood Olawale (MKO) Abiola, whose victory was annulled by the military government, triggering a prolonged political crisis and intensifying calls for democratic rule.

For many years, Nigeria celebrated Democracy Day on May 29, marking the transfer of power from military to civilian rule in 1999.

However, in 2018, former President Muhammadu Buhari officially moved the national observance to June 12 in recognition of the significance of the 1993 election and the sacrifices of those who struggled for democracy.

In 2025, former military Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), officially acknowledged that MKO won the June 12, 1993, presidential election. After more than three decades, Babangida made this unprecedented public U-turn and admission of regret.

The annual commemoration is typically marked by official government activities, civic engagements, and national reflections on Nigeria’s democratic progress and citizens’ responsibilities in strengthening democratic institutions.

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