By Barth Ikiebe
The federal government has inaugurated an inter-ministerial committee to plan and execute activities for Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day celebration scheduled for October 1, 2025.
Speaking at the inauguration in Abuja, George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), said the anniversary offers an opportunity for sober reflection on the country’s journey, challenges, and collective aspirations.
“This anniversary is a reminder of where we are coming from and where we are going. As a nation, we have faced political, economic and social challenges but have overcome them. An anniversary is not just a celebration of the past, it is a call for action for the future,” Akume said.
The Director of Information and Public Relations in the OSGF, Segun Imohiosen, said in a statement that the SGF also called on Nigerians to recommit to unity, patriotism, and nation-building.
The programme of events will begin with a world press conference on Thursday, September 25, followed by a Juma’at service and women’s activities on Friday, September 26. Youth activities and a historical arts exhibition will take place on Saturday, September 27, while a Church service will be held on Sunday, September 28. A public lecture is slated for Monday, September 29, ahead of the climax on October 1, which will feature a presidential broadcast and Independence Day parade.
As part of the commemorative activities, Akume also unveiled the Nigeria @65 Compendium Project Workstation, initiated by Cherry Africa Magazine in partnership with his office. The workstation, equipped with a studio, will host a TV interview series featuring top government officials highlighting milestones in nation-building under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
According to the organisers, the compendium will serve as a national repository, documenting Nigeria’s developmental trajectory from the pre-colonial era to the present, with emphasis on Ministries, Departments, Agencies, governance, and key sectors driving growth.
