By Parrot Newspaper 
FG Declares Thursday Public Holiday for 2025 Democracy Day
In commemoration of Nigeria’s 2025 Democracy Day, the Federal Government has declared Thursday, June 12, a public holiday. The announcement was made on Sunday through a statement issued in Abuja by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Mrs. Magdalene Ajani.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government, congratulated Nigerians on what he described as a historic milestone — 26 unbroken years of democratic governance.
“June 12 represents our historic journey to building a nation where truth and justice reign, peace is sustained, and our future assured,” Tunji-Ojo stated.
The minister highlighted the significance of the date, describing it as a symbol of Nigeria’s collective resilience and a renewed commitment to democratic ideals.
“The last 26 years tell the story of our resilience, strength, and courage — and a hope renewed now more than ever,” he said.
Tunji-Ojo reaffirmed the dedication of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to upholding the principles of democracy. He emphasized that the ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda remains anchored on the universal democratic values of freedom, participation, and governance driven by the will of the people.
“President Tinubu’s government is committed to a democracy that reflects the freely-expressed will of the people in shaping Nigeria’s political, economic, social, and cultural systems,” the statement added.
Background: Why June 12 Matters
June 12 has become a defining symbol of Nigeria’s democratic journey. It marks the anniversary of the 1993 presidential election, widely considered the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history, which was controversially annulled by the military regime. The recognition of June 12 as Democracy Day, initiated in 2018, was a move to honour the struggle for democratic rule and the legacy of Chief Moshood Kashimawo Abiola, presumed winner of the 1993 election.
As Nigerians prepare to mark this year’s Democracy Day, the government urges citizens to reflect on the progress made and continue to uphold the values of unity, tolerance, and participation that underpin the democratic process.