Nigeria at 65: Federal Government Calls Off Independence Day Parade
Nigeria at 65: Federal Government Calls Off Independence Day Parade
The Federal Government has called off the parade earlier planned to commemorate Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary on Wednesday, October 1.
The announcement was made in a statement released on Monday by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
“The Federal Government wishes to announce the cancellation of the Independence Anniversary parade, earlier slated to hold on Wednesday, October 1, to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence. This decision does not in any way lessen the importance of this historic milestone,” the statement signed by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Segun Imohiosen, stated.
The government expressed regret over any inconvenience the development may cause but emphasized that other events on the anniversary schedule will go on as planned. These include the traditional presidential broadcast, cultural displays, and the grand finale of the National Campus Debate.
“The Federal Government deeply appreciates the understanding of Nigerians, the diplomatic community, and invited guests, and urges all citizens to continue to support the Renewed Hope Agenda of the present administration,” the statement added.
At a world press conference in Abuja on Monday, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, explained that Independence Day is not only a ceremonial date but an opportunity for sober reflection and renewed patriotism.
“Independence Day is a profound opportunity for us to reflect on how far we have come as a people, celebrate our resilience, and renew our commitment to unity, peace, and progress,” Akume said.
This year’s theme, “Nigeria at 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation,” he noted, emphasises that the project of nation-building rests on collective responsibility.
Akume praised President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, describing it as “the guiding framework for transforming Nigeria.” He acknowledged the hardships Nigerians are facing but said the government is determined to stabilise the economy.
“The reforms are ambitious and at times challenging, but they are crucial to restoring investor confidence, strengthening our fiscal outlook, and laying a solid foundation for sustainable growth,” the SGF stated. He pointed to early signs of progress, including easing inflation, renewed foreign investment, job creation initiatives, and expanded social programmes to support vulnerable groups.
Akume called on Nigerians to rise above political, ethnic, and religious divides. “At 65, Nigeria remains a work in progress. Yet with renewed hope, shared responsibility, and collective determination, our brightest days are still ahead,” he said.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, also described the 65th Independence Anniversary as “a landmark celebration for our beloved country.”
Drawing a symbolic connection, he noted that the number 65 is represented by sapphire, a gemstone associated with loyalty, truth, and wisdom. “Just as sapphire is treasured and enduring, so too is Nigeria’s journey as a sovereign nation—resilient, wise, and faithful to its destiny,” Idris remarked.
He commended President Tinubu’s leadership, highlighting reforms across taxation, education, infrastructure, energy, oil and gas, solid minerals, agriculture, and healthcare. Idris added that Nigeria continues to play a pivotal role in Africa through peacekeeping missions, regional stability efforts, and a strong voice on global issues.
“The theme of this 65th Anniversary, ‘All Hands on Deck,’ is a sincere call for all Nigerians and our partners worldwide to rally behind these historic reforms and work collectively toward the Nigeria of our aspirations,” he said.
Nigeria secured independence from Britain on October 1, 1960, and the day has traditionally been celebrated with military parades, religious services, and official addresses.
