The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced that the country’s 64th Independence Anniversary celebration will be conducted in a low-key manner, reflecting the current mood of the nation. This announcement was made by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, during a press conference in Abuja on Thursday.
Senator Akume stated that this decision aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to ensure the celebrations resonate with the sentiments of Nigerians, particularly in light of the economic challenges currently facing the country. He emphasized that the planned events are designed to remind citizens of the nation’s strength through unity, its progress despite difficulties, and the beauty of its diversity, while also highlighting the administration’s achievements under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
During the briefing, Akume acknowledged the struggles many Nigerians are enduring due to economic conditions exacerbated by significant policy changes, including the removal of fuel subsidies. He reassured citizens that efforts are ongoing to mitigate the immediate impacts of these changes and create new opportunities through the effective implementation of the administration’s agenda.
- Presidential CNG Initiative (Pi-CNG): The government is working to ease transportation challenges, having launched thirty hybrid compressed natural gas (CNG) buses. The initiative aims to expand across all geopolitical zones.
- CNG Train for Abuja-Kaduna: A retrofitted CNG train head has been commissioned to significantly reduce travel costs.
- Support for SMEs: The administration is focusing on empowering citizens to start or grow businesses as a strategy to strengthen the economy.
- National Social Investment Programme: This program has been restructured to better address the needs of the poor, vulnerable, and elderly, alongside a newly approved National Minimum Wage for workers.
- Nigerian Students Loan Fund: Over 22,120 beneficiaries across higher institutions have received N2.5 billion to support their education.
- Food Security Measures: Tariffs on certain food imports have been removed, and the government is distributing fertilizers and critical farming inputs to enhance food production.
Senator Akume also recognized the contributions of Nigeria’s founding fathers in achieving independence and highlighted the resilience of Nigerians over the past 25 years of democratic governance since 1999.
Planned Activities for the Anniversary:
- Special Juma’at Prayer: Friday, September 27, 2024, at the National Mosque, Abuja.
- Inter-Denominational Church Service: Sunday, September 29, 2024, at the National Christian Centre, Abuja.
- Presidential Broadcast: Tuesday, October 1, 2024.
- Independence Anniversary Parade: Tuesday, October 1, 2024, at the Presidential Villa.
The SGF concluded by urging all Nigerians to reflect on their journey towards stable democratic governance and contribute positively to national development.
