Tinubu to address national assembly on Democracy Day

By Samuel Solomon

President Bola Tinubu will deliver a joint address to the national assembly on June 12 as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 27th Democracy Day anniversary.

The announcement was made on Tuesday during the inauguration of the inter-ministerial committee (IMC) responsible for organising the national celebration.

George Akume, secretary to the government of the federation (SGF), inaugurated the committee at the Shehu Shagari Complex in Abuja.

Akume said the presidential address would be one of the major highlights of the programme approved for the commemoration.

He described Democracy Day as an occasion to reflect on the sacrifices of Nigerians who fought for the return of democratic rule.

Akume paid tribute to the heroes of the June 12, 1993 struggle and the late Moshood Kashimawo (MKO) Abiola.

He said the anniversary provides an opportunity for the federal government to showcase its efforts to strengthen democratic institutions and advance national development despite prevailing socio-economic challenges.

Akume urged members of the committee to begin work immediately, noting that there are only 10 days before the anniversary.

He said this year’s activities would reflect the nation’s mood and the government’s commitment to fiscal responsibility.

Other activities approved for the 27th Democracy Day celebration include a world press conference on June 4.

The programme will also feature special Juma’at prayers on June 5. A special interdenominational church service is scheduled for June 7.

A Democracy Day public lecture will be held on June 9, while youth-and women-oriented programmes are slated for June 10.

A presidential broadcast will be delivered on June 12.

The activities will conclude with a Democracy Day gala night on June 12.