President Bola Tinubu will address a joint session of the National Assembly on June 12 as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
The Federal Government announced the programme on Tuesday through the Inter-Ministerial Committee set up to coordinate nationwide events. Activities include a World Press Conference on June 4, special Juma’at prayers on June 5, an inter-denominational church service on June 7, and a Democracy Day public lecture on June 9.
Tinubu to address National Assembly on Democracy Day as the government also schedules youth and women-focused programmes on June 10, a presidential broadcast on June 12, and a Democracy Day Gala Night.
While inaugurating the committee, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, paid tribute to the late Chief MKO Abiola and other heroes of the June 12 struggle.
According to a statement by the SGF’s Media Aide, Yomi Odunuga, Akume said Democracy Day offers Nigerians an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who fought for democratic rule.
He described the June 12 anniversary as a significant occasion to honour individuals who contributed to Nigeria’s democratic journey.
Akume said the democratic values and institutions being strengthened across the country today rest on the sacrifices of patriots and democrats who fought for democracy.
He also praised the late MKO Abiola, noting that his commitment and sacrifice helped secure the recognition of June 12 as Democracy Day.
The SGF said the celebration would allow the Federal Government to showcase its achievements and reaffirm its commitment to democratic governance, stronger institutions and national development.
He added that President Tinubu’s administration would use the occasion to highlight progress in democratic consolidation, institutional reforms and governance despite economic challenges.
With 10 days left before the anniversary, Akume directed committee members to begin work immediately to ensure a successful celebration.
He said the commemoration would remain modest but purposeful in line with the government’s fiscal responsibility policy.
Akume also directed sub-committee secretaries to submit their budgets for approval and expressed confidence in the committee’s ability to deliver a successful event.
The committee includes key ministers, security chiefs and senior government officials, such as the Ministers of Information, Interior, Defence, Finance and Foreign Affairs, the National Security Adviser, the Inspector-General of Police and the Director-General of the Department of State Services.
Nigeria celebrates Democracy Day every June 12 to honour the June 12, 1993 presidential election and the legacy of the late MKO Abiola.
