Nigeria’s federal government has announced the cancellation of the 65th Independence Day parade, which was scheduled to take place on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, in Abuja. The decision, made public through an official statement on Monday, has been described as a move taken in consideration of broader national priorities, though all other events planned to mark the anniversary will still go ahead.
The cancellation was conveyed in a statement signed by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation. According to the statement, the federal government remains deeply committed to celebrating the milestone of 65 years of independence with “dignity and enthusiasm,” despite the absence of the traditional parade at Eagle Square.
Government’s Position
The government emphasised that the parade cancellation should not be interpreted as a reduction of the importance of Independence Day. “While the cancellation is in no way a diminishment of the significance of this milestone anniversary, the federal government remains committed to celebrating Nigeria’s 65th year of independence with dignity and enthusiasm,” the statement read.
It further expressed the government’s “deep regrets” over any inconvenience caused to Nigerians, members of the diplomatic community, and invited guests. “The federal government appreciates the understanding, support, and cooperation of all Nigerians, members of the diplomatic community, and invited guests, and urges Nigerians to support the reforms of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in making Nigeria a greater nation,” the statement added.
All other programmes scheduled for the anniversary, including symposia, cultural performances, and state receptions, will still hold. The government has not given explicit reasons for the cancellation of the parade, which is typically a colourful display of national pride, featuring military and paramilitary formations, schoolchildren, and cultural troupes.
Security Remains a Priority
Amid the announcement, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) confirmed that it had deployed 4,500 personnel across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to ensure adequate security before, during, and after the celebrations.
In a statement issued on Monday, Monica Ojobi, Public Relations Officer of the FCT Command, said the deployment order came directly from the FCT Commandant, Dr. Olusola Odumosu.
“The deployment is in a bid to ensure the security of lives and property as well as Critical National Assets and Infrastructure in the FCT and its environs before, during, and after the celebration,” Ojobi explained.
Comprehensive Deployment Strategy
According to the NSCDC, the deployment will cover all corners of the FCT and involve specialised units such as the Female Strike Force, Arms Squad, Operation Adakasu, Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) Unit, and the Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear Explosives (CBRNE) Squad.
“There is also massive deployment to vulnerable locations and soft targets such as shopping malls, recreational centres, prayer grounds, markets, motor parks, amusement parks, the City Gate, the Three Arms Zone, government buildings, and areas housing Critical National Assets and Infrastructure,” Ojobi noted.
She added that undercover operatives have already been sent out for covert surveillance to identify and neutralise potential threats. “In a bid to ensure proactiveness and prevent emergencies or unforeseen circumstances, men of our undercover unit have already been deployed for covert operations and surveillance,” she said.
The NSCDC further disclosed that security operatives would be stationed at “black spots” such as uncompleted buildings and abandoned sites, which are often used as hideouts by criminals. The aim is to prevent any security breaches that could undermine the safety of residents or disrupt Independence Day activities.
Balancing Celebration and Security
The cancellation of the parade and the simultaneous security measures reflect the government’s delicate balancing act between celebrating national milestones and ensuring safety in an environment of evolving security challenges.
Over the past year, Nigeria has grappled with incidents of banditry, terrorism, and organised crime, particularly in the northern regions. The federal government, working with security agencies, has intensified operations to restore peace and stability. In the FCT, fears of criminal infiltration from neighbouring states have led to an increased focus on proactive measures, particularly during high-profile national events such as Independence Day.
Reactions and Implications
While the cancellation of the parade may disappoint those who look forward to the annual spectacle, analysts note that the decision underscores a more pragmatic approach to governance. Large gatherings often require enormous financial and logistical resources, as well as heightened security. By cancelling the parade but retaining other commemorative events, the government may be signalling its intention to focus resources where they are most needed.
Diplomatic missions and invited dignitaries are still expected to attend other scheduled anniversary activities, which will proceed under tight security. Nigerians, meanwhile, are being urged to see the cancellation not as a retreat from celebration but as an adjustment designed to ensure safety and sustainability.
A Broader Context of Security Deployments
The NSCDC’s mobilisation of 4,500 officers for the FCT follows a broader trend of increased security deployments nationwide. In recent months, Nigeria has seen extensive personnel deployments for elections, major festivals, and international events hosted within the country. The emphasis has been on safeguarding citizens, deterring criminal elements, and protecting national infrastructure.
Notably, the Civil Defence’s security push for Independence Day comes alongside ongoing efforts by other agencies such as the Nigeria Police Force, the military, and immigration services, all of which play complementary roles in national security architecture.
Looking Ahead
As Nigeria marks 65 years of independence, the government is calling for unity, patience, and collective support for reforms aimed at strengthening the economy and governance. For many Nigerians, Independence Day is not just about parades and pageantry; it is a moment of reflection on the nation’s journey, struggles, and aspirations for the future.
This year’s celebration may lack the familiar spectacle of marching bands and colourful displays at Eagle Square, but it will still carry the weight of history and the spirit of resilience. With security agencies on high alert and government reiterating its commitment to reforms, the day will stand as a reminder that nation-building requires both celebration and sacrifice.
