FG Sets Up Democracy Day Committee, Celebrates Abiola, June 12 Heroes

The Federal Government has begun preparations for the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, inaugurating an Inter-Ministerial Committee tasked with coordinating activities marking the annual national event while paying glowing tribute to the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Abiola and other champions of Nigeria’s democratic struggle.

Speaking at the inauguration of the committee on Tuesday, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, described June 12 as a defining symbol of Nigeria’s democratic evolution and a reminder of the sacrifices made by citizens who fought for the restoration of civilian rule.

According to a statement issued by the SGF’s media aide, Yomi Odunuga, Akume said Democracy Day remains an opportunity for Nigerians to honour those whose courage and commitment paved the way for the democratic freedoms currently enjoyed across the country.

“The democratic values and institutions being strengthened across the country today are founded on the sacrifices and struggles of patriots and democrats who fought for the enthronement of democratic rule in Nigeria,” he said.

The SGF paid special tribute to the late MKO Abiola, widely regarded as the winner of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election, noting that his sacrifice ultimately inspired the official recognition of June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day.

Akume said commemorating the anniversary each year serves not only as a celebration of democratic governance but also as a lasting acknowledgement of the men and women who endured hardship and persecution in the struggle for democratic rule.

He noted that this year’s observance would also provide an avenue for the administration of President Bola Tinubu to highlight achievements recorded in governance, institutional reforms and national development since assuming office.

According to him, despite prevailing economic and social challenges, the government remains focused on strengthening democratic institutions and advancing reforms designed to deepen democratic culture in the country.

With the anniversary barely days away, Akume directed members of the committee to commence work immediately to ensure seamless coordination of all activities lined up for the celebration.

He stressed that while the event would be conducted on a modest scale, it would remain impactful and reflective of the government’s commitment to prudent management of public resources.

The SGF disclosed that activities scheduled for the celebration include a World Press Conference on June 4, Special Juma’at Prayers on June 5, an Inter-denominational Church Service on June 7, a Democracy Day Public Lecture on June 9, Youth and Women-Oriented Programmes on June 10, a Presidential Broadcast on June 12, a Joint National Assembly Address by President Bola Tinubu, and a Democracy Day Gala Night.

Akume further revealed that the committee had been divided into various sub-committees responsible for different aspects of the programme and instructed all sub-committee secretaries to submit their proposed budgets for approval without delay.

Expressing confidence in the committee’s ability to deliver a successful event, he urged all stakeholders to work collaboratively to ensure that the celebration appropriately honours the nation’s democratic icons while reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to constitutional governance.

The committee, chaired by the SGF, comprises senior government officials, ministers and heads of security agencies, 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 every June 12 in recognition of the historic June 12, 1993 presidential election and in honour of the legacy of MKO Abiola, whose struggle became a powerful symbol of the nation’s quest for democratic governance.