By Faith Chondol
The Federal Government has cancelled the annual Independence Day parade earlier scheduled for Wednesday, October 1, 2025, to mark Nigeria’s 65th anniversary.
The announcement was made on Monday in a statement issued by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations at the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
“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 read.
Despite the cancellation, other activities lined up for the celebration—including the traditional presidential broadcast, cultural events, and the National Campus Debate grand finale—will hold as planned.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, said the decision was aimed at encouraging a sober reflection rather than mere ceremony.
“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 required in building the nation.
Akume commended President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that while the ongoing reforms are challenging, they are necessary to stabilise the economy. He cited early improvements such as easing inflationary pressures, increased foreign investment, job creation initiatives and expanded social welfare programmes.
Also speaking, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described the 65th Independence Anniversary as “a monumental commemoration,” likening the number 65 to sapphire—a stone symbolic of loyalty, truth and wisdom.
He urged Nigerians to support government reforms and rise above political, ethnic and religious differences.
“Nigeria’s journey as a sovereign nation is resilient, wise, and faithful to its destiny,” he said.
Nigeria gained independence from Britain on October 1, 1960, and the anniversary has traditionally been marked with military parades, official speeches and religious services.
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