- Declares Wednesday Public Holiday
BY BONNY AMADI
The Nigerian government on Monday announced the cancellation of the Independence Day parade earlier scheduled to hold on Wednesday, October 1 as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.
Nigeria celebrates its independence annually on 1 October, and in commemoration of the 2025 independence, the federal government has declared Wednesday 1st October, Public holiday.
In a statement issued on Monday, September 29, 2025, by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Segun Imohiosen, the federal government explained that while the parade would no longer hold, other activities lined up for the commemoration will go ahead as planned.
“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.
The government, however, emphasised that the decision should not be misconstrued as downplaying the importance of the country’s landmark anniversary.
“The cancellation is in no way a diminishment of the significance of this milestone anniversary, and the government remains committed to celebrating Nigeria’s 65th year of independence with dignity and enthusiasm.”
According to the release, citizens can still look forward to other events that have been scheduled.
“Accordingly, all other programmes slated for the Independence Anniversary will remain in effect.”
Imohiosen noted that the decision to cancel the parade was not taken lightly, acknowledging the impact it may have on those who had anticipated the celebrations.
“The Government deeply regrets any inconvenience caused by this cancellation.”
The statement further expressed appreciation to Nigerians and members of the diplomatic corps for their continued support, while also calling on citizens to rally behind the administration’s policies and ongoing reforms.
“The Federal Government appreciates the understanding, support and cooperation of all Nigerians, members of the diplomatic community, and invited guests, and urges Nigerians to support the reforms of President Bola Tinubu in making Nigeria a greater nation.”
No reasons were given for the cancellation of the parade, which traditionally features a display of military hardware, cultural performances, and patriotic fanfare at Eagle Square in Abuja.
The parade has been one of the symbolic highlights of Nigeria’s Independence Day celebrations, drawing citizens, dignitaries, and international observers.
Earlier, SaharaReporters reported that the Federal Government declared Wednesday, October 1, 2025, a public holi- day to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.
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