Nigeria at 65: FG Unveils 'All Hands on Deck' Theme for Nigeria’s 65th Anniversary, Cast Shadows on Open Celebration at Eagle Square
Unlike what obtained in previous years, when the celebrations were held openly on the 11 hectares (27 acres) Eagle Square, Abuja, the current administration opted to host the event within the Villa in 2024, with this policy shift initially announced in October 2023 by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, who explained that the low-key observance was due to the nation’s challenging economic situation.
By: Olufemi Orunsola
The federal government has unveiled the official theme for the country’s 2025 Independence Day celebrations.
OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News reports that the Independence anniversary theme was made public in a statement on Wednesday.
The Director, Information and Public Relations in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation OSGF, Segun Imohiosen, who made the announcement said the theme for Nigeria at 65 is ‘All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation.’
Imohiosen explained that the theme emphasizes the need for unity, collaboration and patriotism among government institutions, the private sector, civil society and citizens to advance national peace, prosperity and progress.
According to him, government agencies and partners are expected to align their programmes with the anniversary theme to ensure its message resonates across all spheres of national life.
He further explained that the choice of theme reflects Nigeria’s resilience since independence in 1960, stressing the importance of consolidating past achievements while pursuing loftier goals as articulated in the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu-led Federal government.
He revealed that as part of activities lined up for the 65th Independence celebrations, a Juma’at prayer will hold on Friday, September 26, followed by an inter-denominational church service on Sunday, September 28.
He also added that there will also be a World Press Conference on Monday, September 29, in Abuja.
OTN News observes that the announcement did not categorically specify the government's programme for the October 1st Independence day.
OTN News recalls that in 2024, the October 1st Independence day was marked on a low key without the fun fare of parades in October 2024, as President Bola Tinubu presided over the 64th Independence Day celebration at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, Abuja.
That event took place on Tuesday, October 1st,2024, with Tinubu arriving at the forecourt around 10:10 a.m. as the special guest of honour for the ceremony, themed “Reflecting on the Past; Inspiring the Future.”
Upon arrival, the President received a national salute before inspecting the Guard of Honour, led by Lt. Col. Moshood Yusuf and comprising members of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
Unlike what obtained in previous years, when the celebrations were held openly on the 11 hectares (27 acres) Eagle Square, Abuja, the current administration opted to host the event within the Villa in 2024, with this policy shift initially announced in October 2023 by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, who explained that the low-key observance was due to the nation’s challenging economic situation.
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