FG to hold 64th Independence Anniversary low-key over hardship

The Federal Government has announced a series of low-key activities to mark Nigeria’s 64th Independence anniversary on October 1.

In line with the nation’s current mood, the subdued celebrations will honor the sacrifices of the country’s founding fathers.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, made this known on Thursday during the inauguration of an inter-ministerial committee tasked with planning, organizing, and executing the approved activities for the celebration.

Director, Information, at the Office of the SGF, Segun Imohiosen in a statement on Thursday said while inaugurating the Inter-Ministerial Committee, its Chairman amd SGF, Sen. Akume, who was represented by the Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination, Hadiza Bala Usman said “the 64th Independence Anniversary celebration will be low-keyed to reflect the trying times the nation is undergoing”.

“SGF stated that the event will afford the government the opportunity to showcase to Nigerians its scorecard recorded within the short period in office to reposition Nigeria through its reform initiatives to deliver the dividends of democracy.

“The 64th Independence Anniversary celebration will commence with the World Press Conference on Thursday, 26th September 2024 with the following line-up of activities to mark the national event: Juma’at Service on Friday, 27th September, 2024; Church Service on Sunday, 29th September 2024; on Monday, 30th September 2024; while the Presidential Broadcast, and 64th Independence Day Parade will hold on Tuesday, 1st October 2024.

“The Inter-Ministerial Committee comprises Hon. Minister Budget and Economic Planning; Hon. Minister of Information and National Orientation; Hon. Minister of Interior; Hon. Minister Foreign Affairs; Hon. Minister of the FCT; Special Adviser to the President, Policy and Coordination; Senior Special Assistant to the President, Social Events and Inspector-General of Police .

“Other Members are National Security Adviser, Director-General, Department of State Services; Commander, Guards Brigade; Permanent Secretary, General Services Office (Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation); Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health and Permanent Secretary, Political and Economic Affairs Office (Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation).

“The Terms of Reference for the Inter-Ministerial Committee is to plan, organize, and execute all approved activities befitting the Independence Day Celebration on October 1st, 2024; Co-opt any organization(s)/ person(s) relevant towards the successful execution of the programme; Document for posterity, all planned activities for the Anniversary; and Carry out any other assignment as may be required towards the successful implementation of the Celebration”, he stated.