The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially declared Thursday, June 12, 2025, a public holiday to commemorate the nation's Democracy Day. The announcement was made by Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, through a statement signed by Dr. Magdalene Ajani, the permanent secretary of the ministry. This declaration marks 26 years of uninterrupted civil rule in Nigeria, a milestone the minister lauded, emphasizing the resilience, courage, and strength demonstrated by the Nigerian populace. He stated, "June 12 represents our historic journey to building a nation where truth and justice reign and peace is sustained and our future assured. The last 26 years tell the story of our resilience, strength and courage and a hope renewed than ever."

As a central part of the 2025 Democracy Day celebrations, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is scheduled to deliver a presidential address before a special joint session of the National Assembly on Thursday, June 12. This significant event will take place in the House of Representatives chamber, located within the National Assembly Complex in Abuja. According to the House of Representatives spokesperson, Akin Rotimi, the proceedings are set to commence at 11:00 a.m. with preliminary activities, followed by the arrival of President Tinubu, who is expected at 12:00 noon. The theme for this year's celebration is "26 Years of Democracy: Renewing Our Commitment to National Development."

Democracy Day in Nigeria is observed annually on June 12 to honor the memory of the 1993 presidential election, which is widely regarded as the country's most credible electoral process since its independence. That election was famously won by Chief Moshood Kashimawo Abiola, but its results were annulled by the then-military government under General Ibrahim Babangida (retired). Minister Tunji-Ojo reiterated that under President Bola Tinubu's leadership, Nigeria remains steadfastly committed to democratic principles, ensuring that the "freely expressed choices of its citizens shape the nation’s political, economic, social, and cultural direction."

The President's address at the joint sitting will serve as a platform for him to reflect on the current state of Nigeria’s democracy and to outline his administration’s vision for the nation's future. The program for the day will also include goodwill messages from former presiding officers of the National Assembly. Furthermore, President Tinubu will confer national honours on select legislators in recognition of their contributions to democratic governance. The National Assembly views this joint sitting as a crucial marker in Nigeria’s ongoing political evolution, underscoring its vital role in safeguarding democratic values, promoting accountability, and advancing national development throughout the 26 years of continuous civil rule.

Akin Rotimi, also the House Spokesman, confirmed these arrangements and called upon all Nigerians to fully embrace the spirit of Democracy Day. He emphasized that it should be a period for profound reflection, renewed patriotism, and a collective commitment towards building a more inclusive, prosperous, and united Nigeria. With the declaration of the Democracy Day holiday, it was noted that two out of the five weekdays between June 8 and June 15, 2025, will be public holidays, as Monday of that week had already been designated as a holiday for the celebration of the Islamic Eid-el-Kabir festival.