The federal government has announced the cancellation of the earlier plan to hold a parade to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary on Wednesday, October 1.
The director of information and public relations in the office of the secretary to the government of the federation (SGF), Mr Segun Imohiosen, disclosed this in a statement in Abuja.
He said the cancellation of the parade did not reduce the importance of the anniversary, adding that the government remained committed to celebrating the country’s independence with dignity and enthusiasm.
“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 government regrets any inconvenience caused by this cancellation and appreciates the understanding, support and cooperation of Nigerians, members of the diplomatic community and invited guests,” he said.
Imohiosen urged Nigerians to continue to support the reforms of President Bola Tinubu toward building a greater nation.
Meanwhile, the government declared Wednesday (tomorrow) a public holiday to commemorate 65th Independence anniversary.
The minister of interior, Mr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, said this in a statement signed by the permanent secretary in the ministry, Mrs Magdalene Ajani.
The minister congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad, urging them to remain committed to unity, patriotism, and resilience, which he described as the pillars that had sustained the country since independence in 1960.
He also appealed to citizens to continue supporting the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of President Bola Tinubu, “anchored on national rebirth, economic transformation, and shared prosperity.”
Similarly, the minister of information and national orientation, Mr Mohammed Idris, said the federal government had opted for a modest celebration.
Speaking at a pre-independence press conference in Abuja, Idris said the anniversary will be marked under the theme ‘Nigeria @65: All hands on deck for a greater nation.’
According to him, activities kicked off with special prayers in mosques and churches, while other events include the unveiling of the National Value Charter, a framework developed by the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to strengthen national pride and responsible citizenship.
“The National Value Charter will highlight both the Nigerian Promise and the Citizens’ Commitment. The government pledges equality, democracy, inclusivity, and meritocracy, while citizens are enjoined to embrace discipline, accountability, environmental awareness, tolerance, and resilience,” the minister said.
