Samuel Omang
In a stunning departure from tradition, the Federal Government has announced the cancellation of the grand Independence Day parade to mark Nigeria’s 65th anniversary on October 1, 2025.
The announcement, delivered Monday through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, shocked many Nigerians who have come to see the colourful parade as a symbol of unity, resilience, and national pride.
“This cancellation is in no way a diminishment of the significance of this milestone,” the statement read. Instead, government officials described the decision as an invitation to reflection rather than fanfare, urging citizens to embrace the deeper meaning of independence at a time of economic hardship and reform.
For decades, October 1st has been synonymous with military parades, booming gun salutes, and a showcase of Nigeria’s diversity in dance, music, and colour. But this year, there will be no marching troops at Eagle Square, no fly-past of fighter jets across Abuja skies.
Instead, the celebration will centre on a presidential broadcast, cultural exhibitions, and the National Campus Debate grand finale.
At a world press conference in Abuja, SGF George Akume described Independence Day as “a profound opportunity to reflect on how far we have come, celebrate our resilience, and renew our commitment to unity, peace, and progress.”
The theme for this year, “Nigeria at 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation,” underscores the call for collective responsibility in nation-building.
Akume and Information Minister Mohammed Idris both linked the cancellation to the government’s focus on reforms under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which they described as the framework for transforming the nation.
They admitted the path has been painful — with Nigerians facing inflation, subsidy removal, and rising living costs — but insisted the policies were necessary to stabilise the economy, attract investment, and create jobs.
“The reforms are bold and sometimes difficult,” Akume said, “but they are necessary to lay the foundation for sustainable growth.” He pointed to early signs of progress: easing inflationary pressure, renewed foreign interest, and expanded social programmes to cushion vulnerable groups.
Idris went further, invoking imagery of resilience. Comparing Nigeria at 65 to sapphire, a gem symbolising loyalty and wisdom, he said: “Just as sapphire is precious and enduring, so too is Nigeria’s journey as a sovereign nation — resilient, wise, and faithful to its destiny.”
As Nigeria marks 65 years since breaking free from British rule in 1960, the cancellation of the parade serves as a reminder that nationhood is not just about spectacle but sacrifice.
The government’s message was clear: this is a time for sober reflection, not celebration. At 65, Nigeria remains a work in progress, scarred by political division, economic strain, and insecurity — yet still holding to the promise of renewal.
Whether this choice to step away from pomp and pageantry will deepen unity or stir disappointment remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: Nigeria at 65 is not looking backward. It is being asked — by its leaders and by history itself — to look inward, regroup, and march forward without a parade.