The Federal Government announced on Thursday a series of events to mark Nigeria’s 64th Independence anniversary on 1 October, highlighting that the celebrations will be subdued in line with the prevailing mood of the nation.

Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), revealed this while inaugurating an inter-ministerial committee for the celebration. The committee is tasked with planning, organising, and executing all approved activities to commemorate the sacrifices of Nigeria’s founding fathers.

In a statement issued by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information at the SGF’s office, it was noted that Senator Akume, represented by Hadiza Bala Usman, Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination, remarked, “The 64th Independence Anniversary celebration will be low-key to reflect the challenging times the nation is facing.”

Akume added that the event would provide the government with an opportunity to showcase its achievements during its brief time in office, particularly through reform initiatives aimed at delivering the dividends of democracy.

The 64th Independence Anniversary celebrations will commence with a World Press Conference on Thursday, 26 September 2024. The following events will then take place: Juma’at Service on Friday, 27 September; Church Service on Sunday, 29 September; and a Presidential Broadcast on Monday, 30 September. The 64th Independence Day Parade will be held on Tuesday, 1 October 2024.

The Inter-Ministerial Committee includes the Honourable Ministers of Budget and Economic Planning, Information and National Orientation, Interior, Foreign Affairs, and the Federal Capital Territory, as well as the Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Social Events, and the Inspector-General of Police.

Other members of the committee include the National Security Adviser, Director-General of the Department of State Services, Commander of the Guards Brigade, Permanent Secretaries from various offices, and other relevant officials.

The committee’s Terms of Reference include planning, organising, and executing all approved activities befitting the Independence Day celebration; co-opting any relevant organisations or individuals to ensure the programme’s success; documenting all planned activities for posterity; and carrying out any other necessary assignments for the successful implementation of the celebration.