President Bola Tinubu has approved a low-key celebration for Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day, considering the nation’s current economic challenges.
The decision, which was announced by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, during a press conference in Abuja yesterday, stated that: “In alignment with the mood of the nation, the President has approved that the 64th Independence celebration should be low-keyed”.
The SGF emphasised that the scaled-back commemoration was designed to “remind us about our strength when we stay united, our progress despite the challenges, the beauty of our diversity, the quantum leap this administration has taken within the short period in office and the beacon of a better future for all, through the ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda”.
He said the program of events included a World Press Conference, Special Juma’at Prayer, Inter-denominational Church Service, Presidential Broadcast, and a 64th Independence Anniversary Parade at the Presidential Villa.
Notably absent were the usually grand celebrations associated with the national holiday.
Akume acknowledged the economic hardships facing Nigerians, particularly in the wake of recent policy decisions. He said: “this government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is very much aware of and deeply sympathises with all Nigerians over the economic conditions we are passing through. These have been occasioned by unavoidable policy choices, including the removal of fuel subsidies, that his administration has had to make”.
To mitigate these challenges, Akume highlighted several government initiatives. These include the Presidential CNG Initiative to ease transportation costs, with the recent launch of “thirty buses powered by hybrid Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)”. He also mentioned the distribution of “CNG conversion kits at no cost to Nigerians” and efforts to strengthen support for SMEs.
Addressing other national concerns, Akume noted progress in tackling insecurity, stating that “insurgents and bandits are getting neutralised in large numbers while several others are surrendering to the authorities for de-radicalisation”.
He also touched on the Government’s response to recent flooding and efforts to boost food security.
As Nigeria marks its 64th year of independence amid these challenges, Akume called for national unity and resilience. “Let us therefore stand united, resilient, and hopeful”, he urged.
