Breaking: Senate Moves To Change Inauguration Venue, Make June 12 National Address Day

The Nigerian Senate is currently reviewing a legislative proposal that seeks to mandate an annual presidential address on June 12, observed as Democracy Day, and to shift future presidential inauguration ceremonies from Eagle Square to the National Assembly Complex.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele revealed this development during an interview on Tuesday.

According to Bamidele, the bill aims to institutionalize a national address every June 12, highlighting the day’s deep historical and democratic significance.

“We intend to introduce a bill to formalize a yearly presidential address on June 12 due to its national importance,” he said.

The proposal would require the President to deliver the Democracy Day address during a joint session of the National Assembly, further enhancing the symbolic weight of the occasion.

Inauguration Venue Relocation

A major highlight of the bill is the recommendation to relocate the presidential swearing-in ceremony to the National Assembly Complex.

“As part of the bill, we hope the next President’s inauguration—likely President Bola Ahmed Tinubu—will take place at the National Assembly arcade,” Bamidele added.

If approved, this move would officially transition the ceremony from Eagle Square to a more legislative-centered venue, further embedding democratic institutions into the fabric of national rituals.

Budget Adjustments and Constitution Review

The bill is also expected to touch on fiscal reforms, including extending the capital expenditure timeline for the 2024 national budget to ensure fuller implementation.

“We’ll review the 2024 budget’s progress and likely extend the capital spending period while ensuring the 2025 budget is implemented fully,” Bamidele said.

As the Vice Chairman of the Constitution Review Committee, Bamidele also provided updates on the ongoing constitutional amendment process. Despite some delays, he affirmed that zonal public hearings would soon commence, with a joint legislative session to follow.

“We’ve completed around 70% of the groundwork. Before the third legislative year ends, we aim to finalize the constitution review,” he assured.

June 12: Symbol of Democratic Struggle

June 12 commemorates the annulled 1993 presidential election, widely believed to have been won by Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola. The annulment sparked mass protests and catalyzed Nigeria’s return to civilian rule.

In 2018, former President Muhammadu Buhari officially declared June 12 as Democracy Day, replacing May 29, in honor of Abiola’s legacy.

In his memoir published in February 2025, former military ruler Ibrahim Babangida confirmed for the first time that Abiola won the 1993 election, further solidifying the date’s historical importance.