The Federal Government, on Monday, revealed that Nigeria’s 63rd Independence anniversary scheduled for October 1, 2023, will be low-key, noting that, no world leader was invited, News About Nigeria reports.
According to the government, the decision to have a low-key celebration is in line with the present economic realities in the nation.
The development was disclosed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, during a press conference in Abuja.
Akume 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 & Prosperity.
“Low-keyed celebration has nothing to do with whether we’re not doing well. Economic times are hard, we are looking at it not just at the national level but also as a family. We have not invited world leaders. During the inauguration of the President 53 world leaders were invited, so we have not invited any world leader.”
He also revealed that the celebration is important at this time for the Nation as it has witnessed an unbroken democratic record since 1999 as well as the peaceful and successful transition of different administrations.
According to him, despite political tremors and a wave of coups in some parts of Africa, Nigerians have fully embraced democracy with its core values and practices as the best form of governance.
He also noted that Tinubu’s administration is aware of the current hardships Nigerians are facing and is working towards providing better lives for the people.
“The government is fully aware of the economic challenges that Nigerians are confronted with since the removal of the fuel subsidy as well as the impact of the global economic downturn. The government is working assiduously to provide the necessary palliatives so as to mitigate such challenges and also the provision of buses to ease hardship on transportation among others. At the same time, the government is engaging with labour in order to address areas of concern for the well-being of all Nigerian workers and Nigerians generally.
“It is for this reason that this government led by His Excellency, Sen. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is anchoring on the Renewed Hope Agenda which will improve food security; guarantee end to poverty; improve security; economic growth and job creation; access to capital; improve the playing field on which people and particularly companies operate; respect for the rule of law; and fight against corruption.
The programmes lined up for the event include an anniversary symposium/public Lecture, on Thursday, September 28, 2023, at State House Conference Center @ 10 a.m.; a lecture on Friday, September 29, 2023, at the National Mosque Conference Center at 10 am and Juma’at Prayer at the National Mosque at 1 pm.
Presidential broadcast on Sunday, October 1, 2023, at 7 a.m.; inter-denominational church service on Sunday, October 1, 2023, at the National Christian Center at 10:00 a.m. and military parade on Monday, October 2 2023 at the Presidential Villa, at 9 a.m.
