Nigeria Federal Government has declared Monday, June 12, 2023, a public holiday to celebrate Democracy Day. Dr Oluwatoyin Akinlade, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Interior, urged Nigerians to appreciate the democratic journey of the country, celebrating its milestones and progress. She wished all Nigerians a Happy Democracy Day celebration.
In a recent report, the Federal Government of Nigeria declares Monday, June 12, 2023, a public holiday to celebrate “Democracy”. This holiday is in commemoration of the nation’s Democracy Day, a significant event on the Nigerian calendar that celebrates the return to democratic rule in Nigeria.
Official report and Congratulatory Message
In an official statement released on Thursday, June, 8,2023 in Abuja, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Interior, Dr Oluwatoyin Akinlade, declared the public holiday on behalf of the Federal Government. This report extends to all parts of the country, urging citizens to honour the spirit of democracy on this special day.
Dr Akinlade congratulated all Nigerians on the upcoming occasion, stating, “Nigeria’s democratic journey has, like in many other climes, encountered both stormy and smooth sails, but the ship of State, its institutions, and most importantly, the Nigerian citizens have remained steadfast on the tenets of democratic governance.”
Reflection on Nigeria’s Democratic Journey
Democracy Day provides an opportunity to reflect on Nigeria’s democratic progress. Despite various challenges, the nation has remained committed to democratic rules, ensuring that democratic institutions remain functional and strong.
Dr Akinlade urged, “On this memorable day, therefore, Nigerians and friends of Nigeria are invited to appreciate the progress that has been made, celebrate the milestones covered, and look forward to a better future for the country’s democracy.”
Celebration of Democracy Day
Democracy Day marks the day the military handed over power to an elected civilian government in 1999, marking the beginning of the longest continuous civilian rule since Nigeria’s independence from colonial rule in 1960. It is a tradition that has been held annually, beginning in year 2000.
As part of the celebrations, Dr Akinlade wishes all Nigerians a “Happy Democracy Day celebration”. This public holiday provides an excellent opportunity for all Nigerians to reflect on their shared democratic journey and look forward to a future of continued democratic progress.
In Conclusion
This Democracy Day, the Federal Government of Nigeria is encouraging all citizens to pause and reflect on the strides which the country has made in its democratic journey. It is a time to celebrate the progress and look forward to a more robust democratic future. The commitment of Nigerian citizens to uphold democratic values remains the country’s strength, which, in turn, moves the country forward.
