President Bola Tinubu’s administration has said the 64th Independence Day celebrations will be scaled down.
The federal government said its decision to mark the anniversary with modest events, is anchored on the hard times the nation is facing.
It announced this on Thursday as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, launched an inter-ministerial committee to coordinate the anniversary activities.
The committee is charged with organizing and managing the commemorative events that honor the contributions of Nigeria’s founding leaders.
A statement made by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information at the SGF’s office, stressed the need for a low key celebration.
“This year’s Independence anniversary will be low-key, reflecting the challenging times the country is going through,” she said.
Akume added that the occasion would serve as a platform for the government to highlight its achievements and ongoing reforms aimed at improving the quality of life for Nigerians.
The activities will commence with a World Press Conference on September 26, followed by a Juma’at prayer on September 27, and a Church Service on September 29. The celebrations will conclude on October 1 with the President’s Independence Day address and a parade.
Meanwhile, members of the inter-ministerial committee include top officials such as the Ministers of Budget and Economic Planning, Information and National Orientation, Interior, and Foreign Affairs, as well as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, the Inspector-General of Police, and other security agencies.
The committee’s responsibilities include overseeing all Independence Day events, working with relevant organizations, documenting the occasion, and ensuring a smooth celebration.