The Federal Government has described Nigeria’s 65th independence anniversary as a period for sober reflection, acknowledging that the nation remains a “work in progress” even as it pursues recovery and inclusive growth under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
While announcing the cancellation of the traditional Independence Day parade, government officials confirmed that Tuesday, October 1, has been declared a public holiday in commemoration of the milestone.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, said Nigeria’s history since independence has been one of “resilience, endurance, and gradual progress” despite daunting challenges.
According to him, the theme for this year’s celebration, “Nigeria at 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation,”reflects the collective responsibility of both government and citizens in shaping the country’s future.
“At 65, Nigeria is still a work in progress. But with renewed hope, shared responsibility, and collective resolve, our best days lie ahead. All hands must truly be on deck for a greater, stronger, and more prosperous Nigeria,” Akume stated.
The SGF noted that the celebrations commenced with religious services, while the National Campus Debate would hold on Monday, leading up to President Tinubu’s nationwide broadcast on Independence Day.
The decision to cancel the parade was communicated in a statement by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations at the SGF’s office, who stressed that the cancellation does not diminish the importance of the anniversary. “All other programmes slated for the Independence Anniversary will remain. The government deeply regrets any inconvenience caused,” the statement read.
Also addressing the media, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, dismissed allegations of marginalisation of the South-East, stressing that federal projects and appointments reflect fairness and inclusivity. He rejected claims that “Nigeria is bleeding,” insisting instead that the reforms of the Tinubu administration are stabilising the economy.
In a related statement, Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad, urging them to uphold unity, resilience, and patriotism. He reaffirmed government’s commitment to the “Renewed Hope Agenda,” aimed at economic transformation, national rebirth, and shared prosperity.
Meanwhile, prominent voices have urged Nigerians to use the anniversary as a time for reflection. General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, called for a “new dawn” in the nation’s development. A special thanksgiving service themed “The King of Kings” will be held at the church’s headquarters in Lagos, where Adeboye is expected to intercede for leaders, institutions, and citizens.
On the economic front, Dr Muda Yusuf, CEO of the Centre for the Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), highlighted the need to reassess Nigeria’s economic trajectory. He noted that the country’s economy has undergone cycles of boom and bust, marked by reforms, crises, and challenges of diversification.
He recalled that at independence, agriculture contributed about 60 percent of Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and provided employment for the majority. With decentralised governance and regional autonomy, the economy was productive and inclusive. However, the discovery of crude oil, Yusuf said, radically altered the trajectory, creating heavy dependence on oil revenues and exposing the country to price shocks, fiscal instability, and poor developmental outcomes.
As Nigeria marks 65 years of independence, both government and stakeholders are calling for renewed patriotism, economic reforms, and stronger citizen participation in nation-building.
