Nigeria is marking the 66th anniversary of its independence from British colonial rule on Thursday, with the Federal Government declaring a nationwide public holiday and President Bola Tinubu set to deliver an address to the country.
Nigeria gained independence on October 1, 1960, with Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa becoming the country’s first prime minister; this year’s anniversary also marks 27 years of uninterrupted constitutional democracy. The celebrations are being held under the theme “From Reforms to Stability: Consolidating Nigeria’s Renewed Hope for Shared Prosperity,” which officials say reflects the government’s focus on translating ongoing economic reforms into tangible improvements in citizens’ living conditions.
Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo announced the holiday on behalf of the Federal Government, congratulating Nigerians at home and in the diaspora and urging citizens to use the occasion to reflect on the sacrifices of the country’s founding generation. He described Nigeria’s diversity, human capital and natural resources as enduring strengths and said the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda remains committed to building a more prosperous nation. He called on citizens across the country’s geopolitical zones to mark the day with unity, patriotism and peaceful coexistence.
Tinubu is expected to deliver a nationwide broadcast as part of the day’s events. His appearance follows his return to Nigeria on Tuesday after a four-week working trip to Europe that drew criticism from opposition figures, and comes alongside independence-related activities in Lagos, including a film premiere honoring the late politician MKO Abiola.
Security services have ramped up deployments for the anniversary. The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps said it stationed 3,000 personnel across the Federal Capital Territory to safeguard lives and property during the celebrations, a measure that reflects recurring precautions around the holiday following past security incidents linked to independence-day events.
