The Federal Government has announced the cancellation of the traditional parade previously scheduled to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary on Wednesday, October 1.

The decision was conveyed in an official 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,” read the statement, which was signed by Segun Imohiosen, the Director of Information and Public Relations.

The statement expressed the government’s regret for any inconvenience caused but affirmed that all other scheduled anniversary activities will proceed as planned. These events include the customary presidential broadcast, cultural programmes, and the grand finale of the National Campus Debate.

The government concluded the statement by expressing appreciation for the public’s understanding, including the diplomatic community and invited guests, and urged all citizens to continue supporting the present administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

SGF Emphasizes Sober Reflection and Resilience

Speaking at a world press conference in Abuja on Monday, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, elaborated on the decision, stating that Independence Day serves not only as a ceremonial date but also as an opportunity 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 highlighted that this year’s theme, “Nigeria at 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation,” underscores the collective responsibility required for nation-building.

Akume commended President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, calling it the "guiding framework for transforming Nigeria.” While acknowledging the current economic hardships faced by Nigerians, he maintained the government’s determination to stabilise the economy.

The SGF insisted that the ongoing economic reforms, though "bold and sometimes difficult, are necessary to restore investor confidence, strengthen our fiscal position, and lay the foundation for sustainable growth.” He pointed to early positive indicators, such as easing inflationary pressures, renewed foreign investment, targeted job creation, and expanded social programmes designed to support vulnerable groups.

Akume closed by appealing to Nigerians to overcome political, ethnic, and religious divisions, asserting: “At 65, Nigeria is still a work in progress. But with renewed hope, shared responsibility and collective resolve, our best days lie ahead.”

Anniversary Theme Symbolizes Loyalty and Wisdom

Also commenting on the anniversary, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described the 65th commemoration as "a monumental commemoration for our dear country.”

He drew a parallel between the number 65 and the sapphire stone, which he noted symbolises 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 stated.

The Minister praised President Tinubu’s leadership and highlighted reforms across key sectors, including taxation, education, infrastructure, energy, oil and gas, solid minerals, agriculture, and healthcare. He added that Nigeria continues to demonstrate its leadership role in Africa through peacekeeping efforts, contributions to regional stability, and its strong voice in global affairs.

“The theme of this 65th Anniversary, ‘All Hands on Deck,’ is a heartfelt call to all Nigerians and our partners around the world to support these landmark reforms and to work together for the Nigeria of our dreams,” he concluded.

Nigeria originally gained independence from Britain on October 1, 1960, with the anniversary traditionally featuring military parades, religious services, and official addresses.