President Bola Tinubu has revealed that the decision to cancel Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day military parade gave him a rare opportunity to rest and enjoy a peaceful holiday.
The Federal Government had earlier announced that the annual October 1 parade would not hold this year, clarifying through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation that the move “does not diminish the importance of the anniversary.”
Speaking on Wednesday at the unveiling of the renovated Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts in Lagos, Tinubu humorously admitted that the break from tradition offered him a welcome change of pace.
“By cancelling this programme, I was able to have a good sleep, have a nice breakfast, and wait for this evening. And the evening is well spent,” the president said.
Arriving at the event around 6:24 p.m., Tinubu described the celebration as a refreshing shift from the “monotony” of the usual march-past and military displays.
The newly refurbished centre formerly known as the National Arts Theatre was renovated through a partnership between the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Bankers’ Committee. Tinubu had earlier renamed the monument in July 2024 in honour of Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka.
Commending Soyinka’s legacy, the president hailed him as “one of the greatest assets of the world, Africa, and Nigeria,” praising his lifelong dedication to freedom and nation-building.
The ceremony drew a host of dignitaries, including First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, Emir of Kano Muhammadu Sanusi II, and Soyinka himself.
“Happy 65th Independence Anniversary. I enjoyed the evening,” Tinubu added, noting that the cultural celebration reflected the nation’s spirit beyond politics.
