Why 63rd independence anniversary will be low-key, by FG
Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume (left); Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, Dr. Ngozi Onwudiwe and Permanent Secretary, Political and Economic Affairs, Mrs. Nko Esuabana during a world press conference to unveil programmes lined up for this year’s Independence Anniversary in Abuja…yesterday. PHOTO: LUCY LADIDI ATEKO
Nigeria’s 63rd Independence anniversary will be low-key, the Federal Government disclosed, yesterday. Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, told journalists at a press briefing in Abuja, that President Bola Tinubu gave approval that this year’s event be muted “in line with current economic realities”.
The SGF said: “The government is fully aware of the economic challenges Nigerians are confronted with, since the removal of fuel subsidy, as well as impact of the global economic downturn.”
According to him, most of the problems confronting the nation stemmed from “bad governance”. He, however, stressed that the current administration “has confronted and is confronting these challenges”.
He said: “When President Bola Tinubu came on board, he made a very sound decision at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). That singular act led to massive improvement in the capital market. We have a new team at CBN, and a special investigator has been in CBN for some time now. His result will soon be released and Nigerians will know what really went on and what brought us to where we are today.”
Akume disclosed that the theme of the anniversary is ‘Nigeria @ 63, Renewed Hope for Unity & Prosperity’. On activities lined up, the SGF said there will be a symposium/public lecture, 10:00 a.m., Thursday, September 28, 2023, at State House Conference Centre and a lecture 10:00 a.m., Friday, September 29, 2023 at National Mosque Conference Centre. This would be followed by a Juma’at prayer at the National Mosque at 1:00 p.m.
There will be a presidential broadcast, 7:00 a.m., Sunday, October 1, 2023 and an inter-denominational church service, 10:00 a.m., same day, at the National Christian Centre. A military parade will be held at 9:00 a.m., Monday, October 2, 2023 at the Presidential Villa.
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