The Federal Government (FG) announced the cancellation of the parade earlier scheduled to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary on Wednesday, 1st October.
The decision was disclosed in a statement issued on Monday by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF).
According to the statement signed by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Segun Imohiosen, the cancellation does not diminish the importance of the milestone celebration.
While regretting any inconvenience caused, the government assured that other planned activities, including the presidential broadcast, cultural programs, and the grand finale of the National Campus Debate, would hold as scheduled.
“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 read.
At a world press conference in Abuja, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, described Independence Day as a time 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 explained, underscores the collective responsibility required for nation-building.
Akume highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda as the guiding framework for national transformation.
He acknowledged current economic hardships but noted that the administration is determined to stabilize the economy through bold reforms aimed at restoring investor confidence, strengthening fiscal stability, and laying the foundation for sustainable growth.
He pointed to early signs of progress, including easing inflationary pressures, renewed foreign investment, job creation initiatives, and expanded social programmes for 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,” Akume said, urging Nigerians to rise above political, ethnic, and religious divisions.
Also speaking, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described the 65th Independence Anniversary as monumental.
Drawing on the symbolism of sapphire, which represents loyalty, truth, and wisdom, he likened Nigeria’s 65-year journey to the enduring qualities of the precious stone.
He commended President Tinubu’s leadership in implementing reforms across taxation, education, infrastructure, energy, oil and gas, solid minerals, agriculture, and healthcare.
Idris also emphasized Nigeria’s continued role as a leader in Africa, contributing to peacekeeping, regional stability, and global dialogue.
“The theme of this 65th Anniversary, ‘All Hands on Deck,’ is a heartfelt call to all Nigerians and our partners worldwide to support these landmark reforms and work together for the Nigeria of our dreams,” he added.
