The Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has cancelled the Independence Day parade scheduled to commemorate Nigeria's 66th anniversary. This decision was made public in a statement signed by the Secretary to the Rivers State Government, Dr. Dagogo Wokoma. The cancellation aligns with the approach adopted by the Federal Government, emphasizing reflection and shared responsibility over celebrations.
According to the statement, the cancellation of the parade aims to reflect the solemnity of the occasion while encouraging citizens to focus on the collective responsibility of strengthening the country. The state government has instead announced that the anniversary will be marked in a modest and purposeful manner. This approach is intended to promote patriotism, reflection, and a renewed commitment to peace, unity, and national progress.
The Rivers State government has congratulated the people of Rivers State and Nigerians at home and abroad on the 66th Independence Anniversary. Citizens are urged to mark the occasion with patriotism, reflection, and a renewed commitment to peace, unity, and national progress. This message comes as the Federal Government declares Thursday, October 1, 2026, a public holiday to commemorate Nigeria's 66th Independence Day.
Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, has congratulated Nigerians on the anniversary, urging citizens to renew their faith in the Nigerian project and remain committed to building a stronger, more prosperous, and secure nation. In a message, Barau called on Nigerians to reflect on the country's journey since independence and uphold the ideals of unity, peace, and development.
Barau emphasized that the anniversary should serve as an opportunity to remember the sacrifices of Nigeria's founding fathers and others who contributed to the country's independence and nation-building efforts. He noted that their contributions remained a reminder of the ideals of national unity, peace, justice, tolerance, and a shared commitment to Nigeria's progress and prosperity.
The Deputy President of the Senate also urged Nigerians to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's efforts to implement the policies and programmes of the Renewed Hope Agenda. He stated that with the cooperation of Nigerians, the country will build a stronger, more prosperous, and more secure nation. Barau expressed confidence that Nigeria will overcome its present difficulties and emerge stronger with unity of purpose, resilience, and faith in its collective capacity.
Furthermore, Barau mentioned that the National Assembly remained committed to providing the legislative framework required to address the country's challenges. He specifically referenced the State Police Bill currently before the State Houses of Assembly, saying its passage would strengthen internal security and help address security challenges in parts of the country.
Key points
- The Rivers State government has cancelled the Independence Day parade, opting for a modest celebration to promote reflection and collective responsibility.
- Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, has urged Nigerians to renew their faith in the Nigerian project and support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's efforts to build a stronger nation.
- The Federal Government has declared October 1, 2026, a public holiday to commemorate Nigeria's 66th Independence Day.
