The Federal Government has inaugurated an Inter-Ministerial Committee to oversee preparations for the 27th Democracy Day celebration, while also honouring the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola and other champions of Nigeria’s democratic struggle.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by Yomi Odunuga, media aide to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation Senator George Akume said Democracy Day offers Nigerians the opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by individuals who fought for democratic governance in the country.
Akume described the June 12 anniversary as an important occasion to recognise the contributions of those who played key roles in Nigeria’s democratic evolution.
“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 tribute to the heroes of the June 12, 1993 struggle, with special recognition for the late MKO Abiola, whose dedication and sacrifice in the pursuit of democracy contributed significantly to the official recognition of June 12 as Democracy Day.
He noted that the annual observance remains an appropriate way to honour their legacy while celebrating the nation’s democratic achievements.
Akume further stated that this year’s commemoration would provide a platform for the Federal Government to highlight its accomplishments and reaffirm its commitment to democratic principles, stronger institutions and national development.
He said President Bola Tinubu’s administration would use the occasion to showcase efforts aimed at deepening democracy, strengthening governance structures and implementing reforms despite existing socio-economic challenges.
With just 10 days remaining before the anniversary, the SGF directed committee members to commence work immediately to ensure the seamless execution of all approved programmes.
He added that the celebration would be “modest but purposeful” in line with the government’s commitment to prudent management of public resources.
Akume 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 Tinubu and a Democracy Day Gala Night.
The SGF also revealed that the committee had been divided into several sub-committees responsible for different aspects of the event, directing their secretaries to submit budgets for approval.
Expressing confidence in the committee’s capacity to deliver a successful event, Akume urged all stakeholders to collaborate towards ensuring that the celebration adequately honours Nigeria’s democratic heroes and reinforces the nation’s commitment to democratic governance.
Chaired by the SGF, the committee comprises ministers, security chiefs and senior government officials, including 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, among others.
Nigeria observes Democracy Day annually on June 12 to commemorate the country’s democratic journey and honour the legacy of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as having been won by the late MKO Abiola.
