President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to address a joint session of the National Assembly on Thursday, June 12, as part of the official activities to commemorate Nigeria’s Democracy Day.
The special session will take place at the House of Representatives Chamber within the National Assembly Complex, beginning with preliminary proceedings at 11:00 AM, ahead of the President’s arrival at noon.
Democracy Day, observed annually on June 12, holds profound significance in Nigeria’s political history. It honors the landmark June 12, 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as the most credible and transparent election conducted since Nigeria’s independence. The election was won by the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola, a prominent businessman and politician.
However, the military regime led by General Ibrahim Babangida (retd.) annulled the election results, a decision that sparked widespread national and international outcry and became a defining moment in Nigeria’s struggle for democratic governance.
In a statement issued on Sunday, June 8, Akin Rotimi, spokesperson for the House of Representatives, confirmed that the event had been formally communicated to lawmakers through an internal memorandum released by Yahaya Danzaria, Clerk of the House of Representatives.
The statement highlighted that the President will use the occasion to confer national honors on selected members of the National Assembly in recognition of their contributions to the nation.
The theme for this year’s Democracy Day celebration is: “26 Years of Democracy: Renewing Our Commitment to National Development.” This theme reflects the ongoing efforts to strengthen democratic institutions and emphasizes the need for collective responsibility in advancing Nigeria’s socio-economic progress.
President Tinubu’s attendance as the Special Guest of Honour underscores the importance of the event, during which he will deliver a presidential address to the joint sitting. The programme will also feature goodwill messages from former presiding officers of the National Assembly, further celebrating the milestones achieved in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
The joint session represents a significant occasion that reaffirms the critical role of the National Assembly in safeguarding democratic values, promoting transparency and accountability, and fostering national development.
Over the past 26 years of uninterrupted civilian rule, Nigeria’s legislature has been pivotal in shaping policies that sustain democratic governance and enhance the welfare of its citizens.