No parade, cultural performances, fanfare at Eagle Square, Abuja on Oct 1st, says FG
The Nigerian government has announced the cancellation of the Independence Day parade earlier scheduled to hold on Wednesday, October 1 as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.
In a statement issued on Monday, September 29, 2025, by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Segun Imohiosen, the government explained that while the parade would no longer hold, other activities lined up for the commemoration will go ahead as planned.
“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 statement read.
The government, however, emphasised that the decision should not be misconstrued as downplaying the importance of the country’s landmark anniversary.
“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.”
According to the release, citizens can still look forward to other events that have been scheduled.
“Accordingly, all other programmes slated for the Independence Anniversary will remain in effect.”
Imohiosen noted that the decision to cancel the parade was not taken lightly, acknowledging the impact it may have on those who had anticipated the celebrations.
“The government deeply regrets any inconvenience caused by this cancellation.”
The statement further expressed appreciation to Nigerians and members of the diplomatic corps for their continued support, while also calling on citizens to rally behind the administration’s policies and ongoing reforms.
“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 Tinubu in making Nigeria a greater nation.”
No reasons were given for the cancellation of the parade, which traditionally features a display of military hardware, cultural performances, and patriotic fanfare at Eagle Square in Abuja.
The parade has been one of the symbolic highlights of Nigeria’s Independence Day celebrations, drawing citizens, dignitaries, and international observers.
Earlier, the federal government declared Wednesday, October 1, 2025, a public holiday to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.
The country gained independence in 1960 from Britain, an event that signaled the beginning of self-rule and the hope of building a united, prosperous, and democratic nation.
The declaration was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in a statement signed and released on Monday by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani.
The announcement reaffirms the government’s recognition of the significance of Independence Day, which has become a symbol of freedom, resilience, and the collective aspirations of Nigerians across generations.
This is even as he wished Nigerians a memorable 2025 Independence Day celebration.
The minister noted that the day should not only be about festivities but also about sober reflection on the sacrifices of past leaders and citizens who fought for the nation’s liberation from colonial rule.
According to the statement, Tunji-Ojo urged “Nigerians to further keep faith in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, which is anchored on national rebirth, economic transformation, and collective prosperity.”
He emphasised that the Nigerian government remains committed to policies and programs that will foster inclusiveness, rebuild the economy, and promote social justice.
