Nigeria @ 65: FG Cancels Independence Day Parade, Emphasises Reflection, Unity
The Federal Government has announced the cancellation of the parade earlier scheduled to commemorate Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary on Wednesday, October 1.
The decision was contained in a statement issued 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 Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations, read.
While expressing regret over any inconvenience caused, the government assured that other lined-up events would go ahead, including the presidential broadcast, cultural programmes, and the grand finale of the National Campus Debate.
It also urged citizens, the diplomatic community, and invited guests to continue supporting the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
At a world press conference in Abuja, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, described Independence Day as 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.
He noted that this year’s theme, “Nigeria at 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation,” underscores the collective responsibility of nation-building.
He also commended President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda as a roadmap for transforming Nigeria, acknowledging the current economic challenges but stressing that ongoing reforms are necessary to restore investor confidence, strengthen fiscal stability, and lay the foundation for sustainable growth.
Akume pointed to early progress, including easing inflationary pressures, renewed foreign investment, targeted job creation, and expanded social programmes for vulnerable groups.
He further urged Nigerians to rise above political, ethnic, and religious divides.
“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.
Also speaking, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described the 65th Independence Anniversary as a monumental milestone. He likened the number 65 to sapphire, 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 highlighted President Tinubu’s reforms in taxation, education, infrastructure, energy, agriculture, healthcare, and the extractive sectors, while noting Nigeria’s continued leadership in Africa through peacekeeping, regional stability efforts, and global engagement.
“The theme of this 65th Anniversary, ‘All Hands on Deck,’ is a heartfelt call to all Nigerians and partners around the world to support these reforms and work together for the Nigeria of our dreams,” he added.
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Since gaining independence from Britain on October 1, 1960, Nigeria has traditionally marked the anniversary with parades, religious services, and presidential addresses.
