FG Cancels 2025 Independence Day Parade — Other Programs to Proceed as Planned
The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially announced the cancellation of the Independence Day parade scheduled for Wednesday, October 1, 2025, as part of the country’s 65th anniversary celebrations.
In a statement released on Monday, the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) confirmed the decision. The statement, signed by Segun Imohiosen (Director of Information and Public Relations, SGF’s Office), said:
“The Federal Government wishes to announce the cancellation of the Independence Anniversary parade, previously scheduled to mark the 65th Independence on Wednesday, 1st October.”
The cancellation is in no way a diminishment of the significance of this milestone anniversary … the government remains committed to celebrating Nigeria’s 65th year of independence with dignity and enthusiasm.”
The statement further clarified that all other programmes slated for the Independence Anniversary will go ahead as planned. The government expressed regrets over any inconveniences this decision might cause Nigerians, foreign dignitaries, and invited guests.
While the cancellation decision is confirmed, the government did not provide a detailed explanation as to the factors that led to it no logistical, security, financial, or policy reason was publicly disclosed in the statement.
Public Holiday Declared
Despite the cancellation of the parade, the government declared Wednesday, October 1, 2025, a public holiday in observance of the country’s 65th Independence Anniversary. The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration via a statement signed by the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani. In his message, the minister extended felicitations to Nigerians and urged citizens to reflect on the sacrifices of past generations.
The cancellation has drawn surprise from portions of the public and observers, given that the parade has historically been a symbolic and much-anticipated component of the Independence Day celebration. Some reactions suggest that citizens may view the move as downplaying symbolic national rituals, even if the government insists otherwise.
The government emphasized that the move should not be interpreted as diminishing the importance of the anniversary. It called on citizens to continue supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reform agenda and to celebrate the day with dignity.
With foreign dignitaries often in attendance at the parade, the cancellation could affect protocols and expectations for invited guests. The government expressed regret over possible inconvenience to the diplomatic community.
The parade traditionally features military hardware displays, cultural performances, flyovers, and a public spectacle that underscores national pride. Its removal may lead to scrutiny over how national identity and patriotic sentiment are expressed moving forward.
