President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has cancelled the nationwide broadcast initially scheduled to commemorate Nigeria’s 26th Democracy Day anniversary.
Instead, he will deliver his Democracy Day address during a special joint session of the National Assembly on Thursday.
This development was confirmed in an official statement issued by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations.
According to the statement, the change in plans is due to the president’s confirmed participation in the legislative session, where he will speak directly to lawmakers and, by extension, the Nigerian public.
“All other plans remain unchanged as previously announced,” the statement clarified, indicating that only the format of the presidential address has been altered.
The theme for this year’s celebration is “Consolidating on the Gains of Nigeria’s Democracy: Necessity of Enduring Reforms.” It underscores the administration’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and implementing reforms that support long-term national development.
President Tinubu’s address at the National Assembly is expected to focus on key areas of his reform agenda, the value of national unity, and the vital roles both citizens and institutions play in sustaining Nigeria’s democracy.
June 12 holds significant historical weight in Nigeria’s political landscape. It marks the anniversary of the country’s return to democratic rule in 1999 and also commemorates the 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history.
The election, won by late Chief MKO Abiola, was annulled by the military regime, sparking a nationwide call for democratic governance.
