The Federal Government on Monday announced the cancellation of the parade earlier scheduled to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary on October 1.
The announcement was contained in a statement issued by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF). The government expressed regret for any inconvenience the decision may cause.
According to the statement, the cancellation does not lessen the importance of the occasion. “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,” it read.
The government clarified that all other activities lined up for the anniversary celebration under the theme “Nigeria @ 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation” will go ahead as planned.
It further urged Nigerians, the diplomatic community, and invited guests to continue supporting the reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu aimed at building a stronger nation.
The announcement comes just days after the government declared Wednesday a public holiday in commemoration of the independence anniversary.
See the full statement below:
OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNMENT OF THE FEDERATION
PRESS RELEASE
FG ANNOUNCES CANCELLATION OF INDEPENDENCE PARADE
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, and the government remains committed to celebrating Nigeria’s 65th year of independence with dignity and enthusiasm.
Accordingly, all other programmes slated for the Independence Anniversary will remain in effect.
The Government deeply regrets any inconvenience caused by this cancellation.
The Federal Government appreciates the understanding, support and cooperation of all Nigerians, members of the diplomatic community, and invited guests, and urges Nigerians to support the reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR in making Nigeria a greater nation.
Segun Imohiosen
Director, Information & Public Relations
29th September, 2025
What you should know
Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary will proceed without the traditional parade, a decision the Federal Government says is aimed at refocusing celebrations without undermining their significance.
Other scheduled programmes remain intact, as authorities call for unity and support for President Tinubu’s reform agenda.
