The Federal Government has cancelled the parade earlier scheduled to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary on Wednesday, October 1.
The announcement was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).
“The Federal Government wishes to announce the cancellation of the Independence Anniversary parade, previously scheduled to mark the 65th Independence on Wednesday, 1st October. The cancellation is in no way a diminishment of the significance of this milestone anniversary,” the statement, signed by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Segun Imohiosen, read.
It added that while the government regrets any inconvenience caused, other activities lined up for the anniversary will proceed as scheduled. These include the traditional presidential broadcast, cultural programmes, and the grand finale of the National Campus Debate.
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 ceremonial but also 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 nation-building rests on collective responsibility.
Akume praised President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, describing it as the guiding framework for transforming Nigeria. While acknowledging the hardships Nigerians are facing, he assured that the government is determined to stabilise the economy.
“The reforms are bold and sometimes difficult, but they are necessary to restore investor confidence, strengthen our fiscal position, and lay the foundation for sustainable growth,” he said.
Also speaking, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described the 65th Independence Anniversary as “a monumental commemoration for our dear country.”
He likened the number 65 to sapphire, a stone symbolising loyalty, truth and wisdom, stressing that Nigeria’s journey as a sovereign nation remains resilient and enduring.
