The Federal Government has announced the schedule for the 2024 Independence Day celebration.
In a statement on Thursday, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, revealed that the 64th Independence Anniversary celebrations will begin with a World Press Conference on Thursday, September 26, 2024.
NewsNGR reports that Akume made this known during the inauguration of the Inter-Ministerial Committee responsible for organizing the 2024 Independence Day events.
This committee will oversee the planning, coordination, and execution of all activities marking the nation’s independence. Nigeria, which gained independence from British colonial rule in 1960, will celebrate its 64th anniversary on October 1.
Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information in the Office of the SGF, shared that the committee was inaugurated on Thursday, September 19, by Hadiza Usman, Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination, on behalf of George Akume.
Akume stressed that the celebration will be modest, reflecting the challenging times the nation is facing.
As chairman of the Inter-Ministerial Committee, Akume emphasized that the 64th anniversary will be marked in a subdued manner to align with the country’s current situation. He added that the event will serve as a platform for the government to highlight its achievements and reform efforts aimed at repositioning Nigeria and enhancing democratic benefits.
The schedule includes a Juma’at service on Friday, September 27, 2024, a church service on Sunday, September 29, 2024, and the Presidential Broadcast and Independence Day Parade on Tuesday, October 1, 2024.
Key members of the committee include the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, the Minister of Interior, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, the Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Social Events, and the Inspector-General of Police.
Other members include the National Security Adviser, the Director-General of the Department of State Services, the Commander of the Guards Brigade, and several permanent secretaries.
The committee’s responsibilities include planning and executing all approved Independence Day activities, engaging relevant organizations or individuals for the successful execution of the program, documenting the anniversary activities for posterity, and handling any other tasks necessary for a successful celebration.