President Bola Tinubu will deliver a speech before a joint sitting of the National Assembly on June 12 as part of events commemorating the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
The address is among several activities approved by the Federal Government to mark the annual observance, according to the Inter-Ministerial Committee inaugurated on Tuesday to coordinate the nationwide programme.
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The schedule of events includes a World Press Conference on June 4, special Jumat prayers on June 5, an interdenominational church service on June 7, a Democracy Day lecture on June 9, programmes targeted at youths and women on June 10, a nationwide presidential broadcast on June 12, and a gala night to conclude the celebrations.
During the inauguration of the committee, the Federal Government paid homage to the late Chief MKO Abiola and other pro-democracy advocates who played significant roles in the June 12 struggle.
According to a statement issued by Yomi Odunuga, media aide to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume said Democracy Day remains an important occasion for reflecting on the sacrifices of Nigerians who fought to establish and sustain democratic governance.
Akume described the June 12 anniversary as a historic milestone that provides an opportunity to recognise individuals whose efforts shaped Nigeria’s democratic evolution.
He noted that the democratic institutions and freedoms currently enjoyed across the country were built on the courage, commitment and sacrifices of patriots who championed the return to civilian rule.
The SGF particularly honoured the memory of the late MKO Abiola, whose dedication and personal sacrifice, he said, contributed immensely to the eventual recognition of June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day.
Akume further stated that the celebration would serve as a platform for the Federal Government to highlight its achievements while reaffirming its commitment to democratic principles, institutional reforms and national growth.
He explained that the administration of President Tinubu intends to use the occasion to showcase progress recorded in strengthening democratic structures, improving governance and implementing key reforms despite prevailing economic and social challenges.
With preparations entering the final phase ahead of the anniversary, Akume directed committee members to commence work immediately to ensure the smooth execution of all approved programmes.
He stressed that this year’s observance would be modest in scope but impactful in purpose, reflecting the government’s commitment to prudent spending and fiscal discipline.
The SGF disclosed that the committee had been divided into various subcommittees responsible for different aspects of the celebration and instructed their secretaries to submit budget proposals for consideration and approval.
Expressing confidence in the committee’s capacity, Akume urged all stakeholders to collaborate effectively to ensure a successful celebration that honours Nigeria’s democratic icons and reinforces the nation’s dedication to democratic governance.
The committee, chaired by the SGF, comprises several top government officials, including the Ministers of Information, Interior, Defence, Finance and Foreign Affairs, as well as the National Security Adviser, the Inspector-General of Police and the Director-General of the Department of State Services.
Nigeria observes Democracy Day annually on June 12 to celebrate the country’s democratic journey and to honour the legacy of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as having been won by the late Chief MKO Abiola.
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