The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, CON, has inaugurated the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) for the 27th Democracy Day Celebration, directing members to commence immediate preparations for a successful commemoration of Nigeria’s democratic journey.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony held on Tuesday at the SGF’s Conference Room, Shehu Shagari Complex, Abuja, Senator Akume described Democracy Day as a moment for national reflection on the resilience, courage, and sacrifices of Nigerians who fought for democratic governance.
He paid glowing tribute to the heroes of the June 12, 1993 democratic struggle, including the late MKO Abiola, noting that their sacrifices led to the official recognition of June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day.
According to him, the democratic institutions and values being strengthened today are rooted in the struggles of patriots who worked tirelessly for the enthronement of civilian rule in the country. He stressed that commemorating Democracy Day remains essential in honouring their memory while celebrating Nigeria’s democratic progress.
Senator Akume further stated that the occasion offers the Federal Government an opportunity to showcase its achievements in governance and reaffirm its commitment to democratic ideals, institutional strengthening, and national development under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He added that despite prevailing socio-economic challenges, the celebration would highlight ongoing reforms aimed at consolidating democracy and repositioning the country for sustainable growth.
With only ten days to the June 12 anniversary, the SGF charged committee members to begin work immediately to ensure seamless execution of all planned activities. He also noted that, in line with fiscal responsibility, this year’s celebration would be modest but purposeful.
Announcing the programme of events, Senator Akume said activities for the 27th Democracy Day Celebration will commence with a World Press Conference on Thursday, June 4, 2026, followed by Special Juma’at Prayers on Friday, June 5, and an Inter-denominational Church Service on Sunday, June 7.
Other activities include a Democracy Day Public Lecture on Tuesday, June 9; youth and women-focused programmes on Wednesday, June 10; a Presidential Broadcast on Friday, June 12; a Joint National Assembly Address by President Tinubu on the same day; and a Democracy Day Gala Night later in the evening.
The SGF disclosed that the committee has been structured into sub-committees to handle various aspects of the celebration, with terms of reference and membership to be communicated by the Secretariat. He directed all sub-committee secretaries to submit budgets promptly for approval to ensure smooth implementation.
Senator Akume formally inaugurated the committee with members drawn from key ministries, security agencies, and presidential offices, including the Ministers of Information, Interior, FCT, Defence, Health, Foreign Affairs, Finance, Budget and Economic Planning, Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, as well as the National Security Adviser, Inspector-General of Police, Director-General of the DSS, and other senior government officials.
He further outlined the committee’s mandate to plan, organise, and execute all approved activities, co-opt relevant stakeholders, document proceedings for posterity, and undertake any additional assignments necessary for a successful celebration.
Senator Akume expressed confidence that the committee would deliver a memorable and impactful Democracy Day celebration that reflects Nigeria’s democratic progress and honours the sacrifices of its founding democratic heroes.