JUST IN: FG cancels military parade for 2025 Democracy Day, reveals new celebration lineup

In a major shift from tradition, the Federal Government has officially cancelled the annual military parade for this year’s Democracy Day celebration, scheduled to take place on Thursday, June 12, 2025.

The announcement was made by the Inter-Ministerial Committee responsible for coordinating the Democracy Day programme, confirming that the parade usually a central part of the national celebration will not hold this year.

Instead, this year’s commemoration will begin with a national broadcast by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at 7 a.m. In his address, the President is expected to reflect on Nigeria’s democratic journey, discuss the current state of the nation, and highlight ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening key democratic institutions and promoting good governance.

READ ALSO: Democracy Day : Tinubu set to address National Assembly

By noon, President Tinubu will appear before a special joint session of the National Assembly. The gathering will focus on Nigeria’s democratic growth, national unity, and efforts to reposition critical sectors for better governance.

A public lecture is also slated for 4 p.m. at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja. Themed “Strengthening Democracy Through Lasting Reforms”, the lecture will feature prominent political leaders, policymakers, and civil society voices reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic progress and its challenges.

Although no official explanation was offered for the cancellation of the parade, a presidency source hinted that it might be linked to last year’s incident where President Tinubu briefly slipped while attempting to mount a ceremonial vehicle at Eagle Square, Abuja.

The moment attracted considerable attention, though the President quickly regained his balance and carried on with the event.

Despite speculations, government officials maintain that President Tinubu remains in good health and is fully committed to the democratic aspirations of the nation.

Nigerians are encouraged to tune in for the President’s broadcast and participate in discussions aimed at advancing democracy and institutional reforms across the country.