Senate President Akpabio Confirms Joint National Assembly Session for Democracy Day on June 12

In a significant step to mark Nigeria’s annual Democracy Day celebration, Senate President Godswill Akpabio has announced that the National Assembly will hold a joint session on Wednesday, June 12, 2025. The announcement was made during plenary on Wednesday as lawmakers reconvened following their legislative break.

This special joint session, Akpabio noted, is being organized to commemorate the country’s return to democratic governance and to reflect on its democratic journey. The session is expected to feature key addresses, presentations, and special programs tailored to honor Nigeria’s democratic resilience and institutional progress.

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Coordination Underway for Joint Session Activities

According to Senator Akpabio, preparations for the Democracy Day joint session are already underway. To ensure seamless planning and execution of the event, he has appointed a high-level team of Senators who will liaise with their counterparts in the House of Representatives.

Specifically, the committee comprises the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele; the Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro; and the Chairman of Senate Services, Senator Sunday Karimi. These three senior lawmakers will represent the Senate in collaborative planning sessions with the leadership of the House of Representatives.

Their mandate, Akpabio said, is to finalize the programme of events and coordinate all necessary arrangements, including logistics, protocol, and communication with relevant government agencies. He emphasized the importance of the session in celebrating Nigeria’s democratic milestones and reinforcing the commitment of the National Assembly to upholding democratic values.

President Tinubu to Attend in Person

In what is seen as a demonstration of the Presidency’s support for the legislative arm and the national celebration, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has confirmed that he will attend the joint session in person. Senate President Akpabio disclosed this development with optimism, noting that President Tinubu’s presence will add prestige to the event and allow him to directly address lawmakers and the Nigerian public on the state of the nation’s democracy.

“This is a very special session,” Akpabio said. “Mr. President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has graciously agreed to attend in person, and we look forward to receiving him and celebrating Democracy Day together as one united National Assembly.”

It is anticipated that the President may use the occasion to deliver a major policy address, reflect on his administration’s progress since assuming office, and outline strategic plans to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

Democracy Day: A National Reflection

Democracy Day, observed on June 12 annually, commemorates the annulled 1993 presidential election believed to have been won by the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Abiola. The day symbolizes the struggle and eventual triumph of democratic principles over decades of military rule in Nigeria.

Since the official adoption of June 12 as Democracy Day by the Federal Government in 2018, the event has taken on greater national significance. It serves as a moment of national reflection on democratic gains, challenges, and the responsibilities of leaders and citizens in sustaining governance through constitutional means.

With the decision to hold a joint session, the National Assembly aims to reinforce its role as a pillar of democratic stability. It also seeks to demonstrate unity and shared commitment between the legislative and executive arms of government.

Legislative Unity and Forward Momentum

Senate President Akpabio’s announcement reflects a spirit of legislative unity and forward-looking governance. By involving both majority and minority leadership in planning the joint session, the Senate is sending a clear message that democracy must be inclusive and representative of all political voices.

Akpabio also praised the Senate for its ongoing legislative achievements, stating that the commitment to effective representation and governance remains firm. He encouraged senators to actively participate in the Democracy Day events and to use the occasion to reaffirm their dedication to national service.

As June 12 approaches, attention will now turn to the event’s planning committee, whose task is to deliver a memorable and impactful joint session. Expectations are high that the session will provide an opportunity for sober reflection, civic engagement, and a renewed pledge to deepen Nigeria’s democratic journey.

The joint session on June 12 will not only commemorate past democratic struggles but will also set the tone for future reforms and collective aspirations for a stronger, more inclusive Nigeria.