Nigeria @ 65: FG Cancels Independence Day Parade

The Federal Government has cancelled the parade that was planned to celebrate Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary on Wednesday, October 1.

The announcement was made on Monday in a statement from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).

“The Federal Government announces the cancellation of the Independence Day parade scheduled for Wednesday, October 1. This does not reduce the importance of the 65th anniversary,” the statement read.

The statement, signed by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations, added that other activities for the anniversary will still take place. These include the presidential broadcast, cultural events, and the final round of the National Campus Debate.

The government apologized for any inconvenience caused and thanked Nigerians, the diplomatic community, and invited guests for their understanding. It also urged everyone to continue supporting President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

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At a press conference in Abuja on Monday, SGF Senator George Akume said Independence Day should be more than a celebration — it should be a time for reflection and renewed commitment to national unity.

“It is a time to think about how far we’ve come, to celebrate our strength as a people, and to commit to unity, peace, and progress,” Akume said.

He said the theme of this year’s celebration, “Nigeria at 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation,” reminds everyone that building a better Nigeria requires everyone’s effort.

Akume praised President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, calling it a guide for transforming the country. He acknowledged that Nigerians are facing challenges but said the government is working hard to fix the economy.

“The reforms may be tough, but they are necessary to attract investment, improve our finances, and support long-term growth,” he said.

He pointed to early signs of progress such as reduced inflation, increased foreign investment, job creation efforts, and expanded support for vulnerable citizens.

Akume also encouraged Nigerians to rise above political, ethnic, and religious differences, saying:

“Nigeria is still growing. With shared hope and unity, our best days are ahead.”

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Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, also spoke at the event. He described the 65th anniversary as a major milestone for Nigeria.

He compared the number 65 to a sapphire stone, which symbolizes loyalty, truth, and wisdom.

“Like sapphire, Nigeria’s journey as a nation has been strong, wise, and full of purpose,” Idris said.

He praised President Tinubu’s leadership and highlighted key reforms in areas like taxation, education, infrastructure, energy, oil and gas, mining, agriculture, and healthcare.

Idris also noted that Nigeria remains a strong leader in Africa through its peacekeeping efforts and influence in global affairs.

“This year’s theme, ‘All Hands on Deck,’ is a call to all Nigerians and global partners to support the reforms and help build the Nigeria of our dreams,” he said.

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Nigeria became independent from Britain on October 1, 1960, and the anniversary is usually marked by military parades, religious services, and official speeches.