National Assembly Adjourns Plenary to June 17 for Eid, Democracy Day, and June 12 Commemorations

The National Assembly has adjourned its plenary sessions until Tuesday, June 17, 2025, to accommodate a series of upcoming national events, including the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha, Nigeria’s Democracy Day on May 29, and the June 12 celebrations.

The announcement was made during the House of Representatives’ session on Wednesday by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen.

He noted that while legislative sittings will be on pause, committee work and other non-plenary activities will continue during the break.

The decision comes at a time when several important observances are scheduled to take place:
• Democracy Day (May 29): This day marks the return of democratic governance in Nigeria in 1999. It is a national public holiday and often features events such as speeches, reflections on democratic progress, and civic engagements.
• Eid al-Adha (Expected June 6): One of the most significant Islamic holidays, Eid al-Adha commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. The date is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon, with this year’s observance expected on June 6.
• June 12 Commemoration: Recognized as Democracy Day since 2018, June 12 honors the annulled 1993 presidential election, widely believed to have been won by Chief Moshood Abiola. The day celebrates Nigeria’s democratic struggle and the heroes of that era.

Speaker Abbas explained that the recess would allow lawmakers to participate fully in these national and religious activities, many of which involve their home constituencies.

“This period is significant for both our nation’s history and our people’s spiritual lives. The adjournment enables members to observe Eid al-Adha and partake in Democracy Day and June 12 activities with their constituents,” Speaker Abbas said.

Despite the adjournment of plenary, legislative work will not come to a complete halt. The Speaker emphasized that committees will continue to sit and carry out oversight duties, especially those with urgent national matters before them.

This approach is intended to maintain legislative momentum and ensure critical governance functions are not stalled during the break.

Plenary activities for both chambers of the National Assembly — the Senate and the House of Representatives — are scheduled to resume on Tuesday, June 17, 2025.

Observers say the break is timely, considering the heavy legislative calendar anticipated in the coming months, which includes budget preparations, security briefings, and constitutional amendment deliberations.