The Federal Government has declared Wednesday, October 1, 2025, a public holiday to commemorate Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in a statement released and signed by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani.
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Dr. Tunji-Ojo congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad, urging citizens to sustain the values of patriotism, unity, and resilience that have defined the nation since independence in 1960. He also encouraged Nigerians to maintain faith in President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which, he said, is anchored on national rebirth, economic transformation, and shared prosperity.
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With the cooperation and goodwill of all Nigerians, our country will continue to grow in peace, progress, and development,t he minister says, while wishing citizens a happy and memorable 2025 Independence Day.
Meanwhile, the Federal Government has cancelled the traditional Independence Day parade earlier scheduled for October 1. According to a statement from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, all other commemorative activities will proceed as planned. The government stressed that the cancellation does not diminish the significance of the landmark anniversary.
This year’s celebration is themed “Nigeria @ 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation.” Religious observances, including prayers in mosques and churches across the country, have already begun.
Nigeria gained independence from Britain on October 1, 1960. Since then, Independence Day has typically been marked with flag-raising ceremonies, military parades, cultural performances, and patriotic displays. While some aspects of the celebration have occasionally been adjusted in recent years, the anniversary remains a moment of national pride and reflection.
As the country clocks 65, attention is once again turning to the challenges of governance, security, economic growth, and social inclusion issues the government says can be overcome through unity and collective effort.