By Nkechi Eze
The Federal Government has announced that activities to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary will be low-key, as it inaugurated an Inter-Ministerial Committee to coordinate the October 1, 2026 celebration.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, CON, who is Chairman of the committee, disclosed this on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at the committee’s inaugural meeting in Abuja.
According to an official statement signed by the Head, Information and Public Relations Department, Chris Ugwuegbulam, Akume, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Political and Economic Affairs Office, Mrs Bekearedebo Augusta Warrens, said the anniversary would provide an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the sacrifices and enduring legacies of the country’s founding fathers and heroines.
He noted that Nigeria’s achievements since independence were built on the foundation laid by the nationalists who worked for the country’s freedom from colonial rule, urging Nigerians to reflect on the nation’s journey since October 1, 1960.
The SGF also said the anniversary would provide an opportunity for the present administration to showcase its achievements and highlight ongoing reforms aimed at repositioning the country amid prevailing socio-economic challenges.
Emphasising the low-key nature of this year’s celebration, Akume urged members of the committee to work with urgency, given the limited time remaining before October 1.
He said the programme of activities would commence with a World Press Conference on Thursday, September 24, followed by a Juma’at Service on Friday, September 25, and a Church Service on Sunday, September 27.
The programme will continue with an Independence Day Public Lecture on Wednesday, September 30, before culminating in a nationwide broadcast by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on Thursday, October 1.
The Inter-Ministerial Committee comprises the SGF as Chairman and senior government officials, including the Ministers of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Information and National Orientation, Interior, Foreign Affairs, FCT and Budget and Economic Planning.
The National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; Inspector-General of Police, Mr Olatunji Disu; Director-General of the Department of State Services, Mr Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi; and other senior government officials are also members.
The committee is mandated to plan, organise and execute approved activities for the anniversary, co-opt relevant organisations or individuals where necessary, document the activities for posterity and undertake other assignments required for the successful implementation of the celebration.
