The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially disclosed the schedule of events for the forthcoming 63rd Independence Day anniversary. Under the theme, “Nigeria at 63, Renewed Hope for Unity & Prosperity,” the celebration promises to be modest yet meaningful, reflecting the current economic challenges facing the nation.
At a press conference held in Abuja on Monday, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, revealed the comprehensive program designed to mark this significant occasion.
President Bola Tinubu has given his approval for this year’s celebration, emphasizing the need for prudence and fiscal responsibility in light of Nigeria’s economic circumstances. The government is actively collaborating with organized labor and other stakeholders to provide relief to all citizens during these trying times.
The week-long celebration will kick off with a World Press Conference on Monday, September 26, 2023, to be hosted at the National Press Center, Radio House, Abuja.
Notable events during the anniversary include:
1. Anniversary Symposium/Public Lecture: Scheduled for Thursday, 28th September, 2023, at 10 am, at the State House Conference Center.
2. Lecture and Juma’at Prayer: On Friday, 29th September 2023, a lecture will take place at the National Mosque Conference Center in Abuja at 10:00 am, followed by the Juma’at Prayer at the National Mosque at 1:00 pm.
3. Presidential Broadcast: On Sunday, 1st October, 2023, President Bola Tinubu will deliver a presidential broadcast at 7:00 am, reflecting on the nation’s journey and aspirations.
4. Inter-Denominational Church Service: Also on Sunday, 1st October 2023, an Inter-Denominational Church Service will be held at the National Christian Center at 10:00 am.
5. Military Parade: The celebrations will culminate in a grand Military Parade on Monday, 2nd October, 2023, starting at 9:00 am at the Presidential Villa.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, emphasized that these events aim to renew hope, promote unity, and foster prosperity among Nigerians as the country marks its 63rd year of independence. It’s a time for reflection and recommitment to the nation’s progress.
He said:
“As you are aware, the president has given his approval for this 63rd anniversary to be low-key in line with the present economic realities. The theme of the anniversary is “Nigeria @ 63, Renewed Hope for Unity and Prosperity”.
“In view of the above, the following programs have been lined up to mark the celebration: World Press Conference on Monday, 26th September at the National Press Center, Radio House Abuja at 11:00 am. Anniversary Symposium/Public Lecture, Thursday, 28th September 2023 at State House Conference Center @ 10 am
“Lecture on Friday, 29th September 2023, National Mosque Conference Center at 10:00 am and Juma’at Prayer at the National Mosque at 1:00 pm. Presidential Broadcast, Sunday, 1st October, 2023 at 7:00 am. Inter-Denominational Church Service on Sunday, 1st October 2023, at the National Christian Center at 10:00 a.m. Military Parade on Monday, 2nd October, 2023 at the Presidential Villa, at 9:00 am.”
The SGF also highlighted the importance of this year’s celebration, having witnessed the seamless, successful, and peaceful Presidential Transition programme from one government to another.
Akume said: “It is particularly important at this time, having witnessed an unbroken democratic record since 1999 as well as the seamless, successful, and peaceful Presidential Transition programme from one government to another. Therefore, this calls for celebration, and we are thankful to God and Nigerians for making this possible.
“Despite political tremors and a wave of coups in some parts of the ECOWAS sub-region, Nigerians have fully embraced democracy with its core values and practices as the best form of governance.
“Democracy affords the citizens the opportunity, through elective structures and processes, to effectively participate in the affairs of their country.
“The relationship between the people and government in a representative democracy is symbiotic: while the citizens support the government, the government provides security, protects, and enhances their interests.”
