The Federal Government has announced the cancellation of the Independence Day parade scheduled for October 1, 2025, to mark Nigeria’s 65th anniversary.
According to Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the cancellation doesn’t diminish the significance of this milestone anniversary.
The government remains committed to celebrating Nigeria’s 65th year of independence with dignity and enthusiasm. While the parade and presidential broadcast have been called off, other programs scheduled for the Independence anniversary will proceed as planned. These include cultural programs, the grand finale of the National Campus Debate, and other activities lined up for the celebration.
This year’s theme, “Nigeria at 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation,” emphasizes collective responsibility in nation-building. The government urges Nigerians to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at transforming Nigeria through reforms in taxation, education, infrastructure, energy, and healthcare.
“The cancellation is in no way a diminishment of the significance of this milestone anniversary, and the government remains committed to celebrating Nigeria’s 65th year of independence with dignity and enthusiasm,” the government stated. The government expressed regret over any inconvenience caused and appreciated the understanding and cooperation of Nigerians, members of the diplomatic community, and invited guests.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, described Independence Day 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.
The cancellation of the parade has sparked reactions, but the government assures that other activities will proceed as scheduled, maintaining the spirit of the occasion. Nigeria gained independence from Britain on October 1, 1960, and the anniversary has traditionally been marked with military parades, religious services, and official addresses.