Activities to Begin September 24 With World Press Conference
The Federal Government has inaugurated an Inter-Ministerial Committee to coordinate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Day celebration scheduled for October 1, 2026.
The committee, chaired by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, was inaugurated in Abuja on Thursday.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Political and Economic Affairs Office, Bekearedebo Warrens, Akume said the anniversary would provide an opportunity to reflect on the contributions and sacrifices of Nigeria’s founding fathers and heroines.
He said the country’s achievements since independence were built on the foundation laid by the nation’s nationalists, adding that the celebration would also highlight the achievements and reform initiatives of the present administration.
Akume said this year’s activities would be held on a low-key basis due to the prevailing socio-economic challenges, while urging committee members to work with urgency ahead of October 1.
The programme will begin with a World Press Conference on September 24, followed by a Juma’at Service on September 25 and a Church Service on September 27.
An Independence Day Public Lecture is scheduled for September 30, while President Bola Tinubu is expected to deliver a nationwide broadcast on October 1.
The committee comprises senior government officials, including Ministers Taiwo Oyedele, Mohammed Idris, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nyesom Wike and Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, as well as National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and other senior officials.
Its terms of reference include planning and executing approved activities, engaging relevant organisations and individuals, documenting the celebration and carrying out other assignments necessary for its successful implementation.