Tinubu To Address Nigerians On 66th Independence Day

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will address Nigerians in a nationwide broadcast on October 1, 2026, as part of activities marking the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary.

The Federal Government disclosed this on Thursday following the inauguration of the Inter-Ministerial Committee for the commemoration of the anniversary.

The committee, chaired by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, was inaugurated in Abuja to coordinate activities for the October 1 celebration.

Akume, who was represented at the inaugural meeting by the Permanent Secretary, Political and Economic Affairs Office, Mrs Bekearedebo Augusta Warrens, said the anniversary would provide an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the contributions and sacrifices of the country’s founding fathers and heroines.

According to him, Nigeria’s achievements since independence were built on the foundation laid by the nationalists who worked for the country’s independence from colonial rule.

He added that the anniversary would also allow the present administration to showcase its achievements and highlight its reform efforts in addressing the socio-economic challenges confronting the country.

The SGF, however, said the 66th Independence anniversary would be marked on a low-key basis.

He urged members of the committee to work with urgency given the limited time before the October 1 celebration.

The programme of activities will commence with a World Press Conference on Thursday, September 24, followed by a Juma’at Service on Friday, September 25.

A Church Service is scheduled for Sunday, September 27, while an Independence Day Public Lecture will hold on Wednesday, September 30.

The activities will culminate in President Tinubu’s nationwide broadcast to Nigerians on Thursday, October 1.

The Inter-Ministerial Committee comprises senior government officials, including the Ministers of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele; Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris; Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike; and Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu.

The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, as well as presidential advisers and permanent secretaries from relevant ministries and offices, are also members of the committee.

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu; Director-General of the Department of State Services, Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi; and Commander, Guards Brigade, Brigadier General Adebisi Olusegun Onasanya, are also members.

The committee is mandated to plan, organise and execute approved activities for the October 1 celebration, co-opt relevant organisations or individuals where necessary, and document the activities for posterity.

It is also expected to undertake any other assignment required for the successful implementation of the anniversary programme.