The Government of Rivers State has cancelled the parade marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary scheduled for October 1, 2026.
The government explained that the action was in response to directives from the Federal Government (FG) to commemorate the occasion on a low key this year.
In a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Dagogo Wokoma, the government announced its decision to change the planned march-past and other ceremonial programs into a modest commemoration.
According to the government, the decision is based on the need for the Nigerian people to reflect soberly about the country’s current situation on the occasion.
The government also encouraged the people to reflect soberly about their individual contributions towards a more peaceful, united and prosperous Nigeria.
The government congratulated the residents of the state and all Nigerians both at home and abroad on the occasion and encouraged them to celebrate in a patriotic manner.
The government said it was appropriate for citizens to reflect on the history of the country’s journey since Independence and the collective efforts needed to create a better future.
Earlier, the TCPN reported that the FG declared a holiday through a statement released by the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Interior, Magdalene Ajani, in the name of the Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo,
He referred to the warmth, hospitality, love, and abundant resources available in the country, both human and natural, which made Nigeria “unarguably the most prosperous black nation in the world.”
