FG plans low-key celebration for 66th Independence Day

The Federal Government has planned a modest celebration for Nigeria's 66th Independence Day, with President Bola Tinubu set to deliver a nationwide address on October 1. The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation announced the decision, stating that an Inter-Ministerial Committee led by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, has been formed to organize the event in Abuja.

Akume, who was present at the committee inauguration, emphasized that the occasion would allow Nigerians to reflect on the sacrifices made by the nation's founding fathers and heroines for independence from colonial rule. The government has acknowledged the achievements made since 1960, attributing them to the groundwork laid by the nationalists, and expressed its intention to showcase ongoing reforms and accomplishments amid current socio-economic challenges.

The low-key celebration will kick off with a World Press Conference on September 24, followed by religious services and a public lecture leading up to October 1, when the President will broadcast his message to the nation.