The Federal Government has cancelled the traditional Independence Anniversary parade that usually features officers and men of the Armed Forces, Police, and paramilitary agencies.
Nigeria will mark its 65th Independence Anniversary on October 1, 2025, but unlike previous years, the parade will no longer hold.
A statement issued on Monday by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) and signed by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Segun Imohiosen, announced the development.
“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.
While no reason was given for the cancellation, the SGF’s office clarified that the decision “is in no way a diminishment of the significance of this milestone anniversary,” stressing that the government remains committed to celebrating Nigeria’s independence “with dignity and enthusiasm.”
It added that all other programmes scheduled for the anniversary remain unchanged, while expressing regret for any inconvenience caused.
The statement further urged Nigerians, the diplomatic community, and invited guests to continue to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reforms, which it said are geared toward making Nigeria a greater nation.
Earlier on Monday, the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, had declared October 1 a public holiday to commemorate the anniversary.
