The Federal Government has inaugurated an Inter-Ministerial Committee to coordinate activities for the 27th Democracy Day celebration, while also paying tribute to the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Abiola and other heroes of the June 12 struggle.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, made the announcement on Tuesday through a statement issued by his media aide, Yomi Odunuga.

Akume said Democracy Day remains a significant moment for Nigeria to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who fought for the country’s democratic governance.

“The democratic values and institutions being strengthened across the country today are founded on the sacrifices and struggles of patriots and democrats who fought for the enthronement of democratic rule in Nigeria,” he said.

He specifically honoured MKO Abiola, describing his role and sacrifice as central to the recognition of June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day.

According to him, the annual commemoration is not only to honour democratic heroes but also to celebrate Nigeria’s progress in democratic governance.

Akume said the Tinubu administration would use the celebration to showcase achievements in strengthening democratic institutions, implementing reforms, and promoting national development.

He also described the 2026 celebration as “modest but purposeful,” in line with the government’s commitment to fiscal discipline.

The SGF directed committee members to begin immediate preparations, noting that time was limited ahead of the June 12 celebration.

He announced that activities for the commemoration would include a World Press Conference on June 4, special Juma’at prayers on June 5, inter-denominational church service on June 7, a democracy lecture on June 9, youth and women programmes on June 10, a presidential broadcast on June 12, and a National Assembly address and gala night.

Akume said the committee, chaired by him, includes ministers, security chiefs, and heads of key government agencies, who would work through sub-committees to ensure smooth planning.

He urged members to work together to deliver a successful celebration that reflects Nigeria’s democratic journey and honours its founding heroes.

Nigeria observes Democracy Day annually on June 12 to mark the return to democratic rule in 1999 and to honour the legacy of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election widely believed to have been won by MKO Abiola.