The Federal Government has announced plans for a low-key celebration of Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, with a series of activities scheduled ahead of October 1.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, disclosed this during the inauguration of an Inter-Ministerial Committee established to coordinate the anniversary programme.
Akume, who was represented at the meeting by the Permanent Secretary in the Political and Economic Affairs Office, Bekearedebo Warrens, said the anniversary would provide an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the sacrifices and contributions of the country’s founding fathers and heroines.
He said Nigeria’s progress since independence was built on the foundation laid by the nationalists who worked for the country’s independence from colonial rule in 1960.
The SGF also said the anniversary would give the Federal Government an opportunity to highlight its achievements and ongoing reform efforts while acknowledging the socio-economic challenges confronting the country.
However, he directed that this year’s activities should remain low-key and urged members of the committee to work with urgency because of the limited time remaining before October 1.
The programme will begin with a World Press Conference on September 24, followed by a Juma’at Service on September 25.
An interdenominational Church Service is scheduled for September 27, while an Independence Day Public Lecture will hold on September 30.
The programme will culminate in President Bola Tinubu’s nationwide broadcast to Nigerians on October 1, marking the country’s 66th year of independence.
The Inter-Ministerial Committee is chaired by the SGF and includes senior government officials such as the Ministers of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Information and National Orientation, Interior, Foreign Affairs, the Federal Capital Territory and Budget and Economic Planning.
The National Security Adviser, presidential advisers, the Inspector-General of Police, Director-General of the Department of State Services, Commander of the Guards Brigade and several permanent secretaries are also members.
The committee has been tasked with planning and executing the approved activities, documenting the anniversary programme and making other arrangements necessary for its successful implementation.
Leave a comment