The Federal Government has called off the parade earlier planned to celebrate Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary on Wednesday, October 1.
The decision was announced in a statement released on Monday by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF).
“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.
The statement further noted that while the parade will no longer hold, other activities such as the presidential broadcast, cultural programmes, and the grand finale of the National Campus Debate would continue as planned.
“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,” it added.
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At a press briefing in Abuja, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, explained that Independence Day remains an important moment for 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.
He pointed out that this year’s theme, “Nigeria at 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation,” stresses the collective responsibility of citizens in nation-building. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to stabilising the economy through President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, despite current economic challenges.
“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,” Akume stated, citing progress in inflation control, foreign investment, job creation, and social support programmes.
Also speaking, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described the anniversary as “a monumental commemoration for our dear country,” likening Nigeria at 65 to sapphire, a stone symbolising loyalty, truth, and wisdom.
“Just as sapphire is precious and enduring, so too is Nigeria’s journey as a sovereign nation—resilient, wise, and faithful to its destiny,” Idris said.
He praised President Tinubu’s leadership, highlighting reforms across key sectors such as taxation, education, infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, and energy. Idris added that Nigeria continues to maintain its role as a regional leader in peacekeeping and international affairs.
Nigeria gained independence from Britain on October 1, 1960, and the anniversary has long been marked by military parades, religious observances, and presidential addresses.
