ABUJA:The Federal Government has cancelled the military parade earlier scheduled to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary on Wednesday, October 1.
The announcement, conveyed in a statement by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and signed by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Segun Imohiosen, noted that the cancellation in no way diminishes the significance of this milestone anniversary.
While the parade will no longer hold, other activities such as the presidential broadcast, cultural events, and the grand finale of the National Campus Debate will proceed as planned.
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 explained that this year’s theme, Nigeria at 65: All Hands-on Deck for a Greater Nation, underscores the collective responsibility of all citizens in nation-building.
Akume also praised President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda as the guiding framework for economic transformation, acknowledging that while reforms are difficult, they are necessary to restore investor confidence and strengthen fiscal stability.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, also addressed reporters, describing 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 nationresilient, wise, and faithful to its destiny, Idris said.
He highlighted ongoing reforms in taxation, education, infrastructure, energy, oil and gas, solid minerals, agriculture and healthcare, stressing that Nigeria continues to play a strong leadership role in Africa and on the global stage.
Nigeria, which gained independence from Britain on October 1, 1960, has traditionally marked the day with military parades, religious services and presidential addresses.
