From Kenneth Udeh, Abuja
In a move to mark Nigeria’s Democracy Day with renewed national unity and institutional collaboration, the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, announced today that a joint session of the National Assembly will take place on Wednesday, June 12, as part of official celebrations.
Senator Akpabio made the announcement during Wednesday’s plenary, after the senators reconvened from a two-hour break.
He stated that the joint session would serve as a ceremonial convergence of both chambers, the Senate and the House of Representatives, to underscore the significance of Nigeria’s democratic journey.
According to Akpabio, preparations for the event are already underway. A committee comprising Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, Senate Minority Leader Senator Abba Moro, and Chairman of Senate Services Senator Sunday Karimi has been tasked with coordinating efforts with their counterparts in the House of Representatives.
The aim, he explained, is to finalise the official programme and ensure a seamless and meaningful observance of the occasion.
In a notable development, the Senate President also confirmed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has “graciously agreed” to attend the joint session in person, a gesture widely seen as a reaffirmation of the executive’s commitment to democratic governance and parliamentary engagement.
“Mr President has graciously agreed to attend. I hope all members will make time to attend that special session.
“This Senate wishes our Muslim brothers Happy Sallah and Happy May 29th swearing-in celebration and wishes you a Happy Democracy Day celebration.
“This event will be symbolic not just in commemorating the return to democracy but also in highlighting the importance of collaboration between all arms of government,” Akpabio said.
Democracy Day, observed annually on June 12, commemorates the historic 1993 presidential election, widely considered the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history.
The day honours the memory of Chief MKO Abiola and the democratic ideals he represented.
Further details about the session, including the agenda and keynote addresses, are expected to be released following the committee’s consultations.