The Federal Government has announced the cancellation of 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 (OSGF). The statement, signed by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Segun Imohiosen, clarified that the cancellation does not diminish the significance of the milestone.
“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 read.
It added that other activities lined up for the anniversary will proceed as scheduled, including the traditional presidential broadcast, cultural programmes, and the grand finale of the National Campus Debate. The government also expressed regret for any inconvenience caused and thanked Nigerians, the diplomatic community, and invited guests for their understanding.
At a world press conference in Abuja, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, stressed that Independence Day is not only a ceremonial event but also a moment 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, underscores the importance of collective responsibility in nation-building. Akume praised President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, describing it as the guiding framework for Nigeria’s transformation.
While acknowledging the economic challenges facing Nigerians, he explained that the government is committed to stabilising the economy through bold but necessary reforms. According to him, the reforms are already yielding results, including easing inflationary pressures, renewed foreign investment, targeted job creation, and expanded social programmes to support vulnerable groups.
“At 65, Nigeria is still a work in progress. But with renewed hope, shared responsibility, and collective resolve, our best days lie ahead,” he added, urging citizens to rise above political, ethnic, and religious divisions.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, also described the 65th Independence Anniversary as “a monumental commemoration.” Drawing a symbolic comparison, he likened the number 65 to sapphire, a stone representing loyalty, truth, and wisdom, saying Nigeria’s journey as a sovereign nation reflects these enduring qualities.
Idris further highlighted President Tinubu’s reforms across taxation, education, infrastructure, energy, oil and gas, solid minerals, agriculture, and healthcare, noting that Nigeria continues to demonstrate leadership in Africa through peacekeeping, regional stability, and global engagement.
“The theme of this 65th Anniversary, ‘All Hands on Deck,’ is a heartfelt call to all Nigerians and our partners around the world to support these landmark reforms and work together for the Nigeria of our dreams,” he said.
Nigeria gained independence from Britain on October 1, 1960, and the day has traditionally been marked with military parades, religious services, and official addresses.
