Nigerians Get Extra Holiday as FG Declares June 12 Public Holiday for Democracy Day

The Federal Government of Nigeria has declared Thursday, June 12, 2025, a public holiday to commemorate this year’s Democracy Day celebration. This announcement comes on the heels of an already shortened work week, with Monday previously declared a public holiday in honor of the Eid-el-Kabir festival.

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the announcement on behalf of the federal government, congratulating Nigerians on over two decades of uninterrupted democratic governance. “June 12 represents our historic journey to building a nation where truth and justice reign and peace is sustained and our future assured,” Tunji-Ojo said.

The Minister highlighted Nigeria’s progress since the return to civilian rule in 1999, describing it as a testament to the Nigerian people’s determination. “The last 26 years tell the story of our resilience, strength and courage and a hope renewed than ever,” he added. Tunji-Ojo reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s commitment to democratic principles, emphasizing that the government remains anchored on the will of the people.

The Minister reiterated that President Bola Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda aims to uphold democratic ideals, allowing citizens to freely determine the country’s political, economic, social, and cultural future.

Democracy Day, celebrated annually on June 12, commemorates the annulled 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as Nigeria’s freest and fairest vote, and honors the struggle that restored civilian rule in 1999.