The Federal Government has adjusted its traditional Democracy Day programme for June 12, 2025, opting to cancel the annual military parade often associated with the national celebration.
In a statement released by the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Democracy Day, the government announced that this year’s observance will focus on more reflective and policy-driven engagements, beginning with a nationwide broadcast by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at 7:00 a.m. on Thursday.
Rather than a parade, the President will make a symbolic appearance at a special joint session of the National Assembly scheduled for 12 noon. The session will serve as a platform for highlighting Nigeria’s democratic progress, addressing current national issues, and reaffirming the administration’s commitment to unity and governance reforms.
Later in the day, a public lecture will be held at 4:00 p.m. at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja. The event will gather senior government officials, lawmakers, policy experts, and civil society stakeholders under the theme: “Consolidating on the Gains of Nigeria’s Democracy: Necessity of Enduring Reforms.”
According to the committee, this year’s approach emphasizes civic dialogue and national reflection over ceremony. Citizens are encouraged to tune in to the broadcast and engage in the broader conversation about strengthening democratic institutions and pursuing lasting political and economic reforms.