The Senate, led by Majority Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, is exploring legislation to formalize a presidential speech to Nigerians every June 12, acknowledging its significance as Democracy Day and a milestone in the country’s democratic journey .
The proposed bill would also mandate presidential swearing-in ceremonies to take place within the arcades of the National Assembly complex, rather than external venues .
Beyond ceremonial reform, the Senate intends to extend the timeline for implementing the 2024 capital budget expenditure, ensuring more projects are finalized prior to fully rolling out the 2025 budget .
On constitutional reform, Bamidele, who serves as Vice Chairman of the Constitution Review Committee, reassured Nigerians that about 70% of the review work has been completed. Public hearings are set to take place across the six geopolitical zones, with the goal to finish amendments by the end of the third legislative year .
The initiative stems from the deep historical impact of June 12, 1993—when the election widely won by MKO Abiola was annulled—an injustice now recognized officially, and Democracy Day since 2018 .
Why It Matters: By making June 12 speeches and inaugurations at the NASS complex official, the Senate aims to reinforce the symbolic weight of Nigeria’s democracy. It also signals a push for greater legislative oversight and continuity in constitutional reform and budget transparency.
