The Federal Government has announced that this year’s 64th Independence anniversary on October 1 will be marked with a low-key celebration, reflecting the nation’s current economic hardships.
This decision was disclosed on Thursday by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, during the inauguration of the Inter-Ministerial Committee responsible for planning the event.
The committee, chaired by the SGF, has been tasked with organizing and executing the activities to commemorate Nigeria’s Independence, honoring the sacrifices of the country’s founding fathers.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Information at the Office of the SGF, Segun Imohiosen, the low-key celebration is in line with the current mood of the nation as it grapples with economic challenges.
The celebration, however, will provide an opportunity for the government to highlight its achievements within its short tenure, particularly its reform initiatives aimed at improving governance and delivering democratic dividends to Nigerians.
The schedule of events for the Independence Day celebration includes a World Press Conference on Thursday, September 26, 2024.
This will be followed by a Juma’at Service on Friday, September 27, 2024, and a Church Service on Sunday, September 29, 2024.
The key events will culminate in a Presidential Broadcast and the 64th Independence Day Parade on Tuesday, October 1, 2024.
The Inter-Ministerial Committee overseeing the event includes ministers from various sectors, such as Budget and Economic Planning, Information and National Orientation, Interior, and Foreign Affairs, among others.
The committee is also tasked with documenting the planned activities for future reference and ensuring the successful execution of the celebration.
While the scale of the event has been reduced, the government remains committed to marking the occasion and using it as a platform to reassure citizens of its efforts to reposition the country for future growth.
