Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has cancelled the Independence Day parade scheduled to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th anniversary.
This was just as the state government announced that the anniversary would instead be marked in a modest and purposeful manner, with emphasis on reflection and the shared responsibility of building a stronger Nigeria.
The decision was contained in a statement signed by the Secretary to the Rivers State Government, Dr Dagogo Wokoma, on Wednesday.
Politics Nigeria understands that this aligns the state’s celebration with the approach adopted by the Federal Government.
According to the statement, the cancellation of the parade was intended to reflect the solemnity of the occasion while encouraging citizens to focus on the collective responsibility of strengthening the country.
The state government congratulated the people of Rivers State and Nigerians at home and abroad on the 66th Independence Anniversary.
It urged citizens to mark the occasion with patriotism, reflection and renewed commitment to peace, unity and national progress.
Meanwhile, Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, has congratulated Nigerians on the anniversary, urging citizens to renew their faith in the Nigerian project and remain committed to building a stronger, more prosperous and secure nation.
Barau, in a message issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, called on Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey since independence and uphold the ideals of unity, peace and development.
The Federal Government has declared Thursday, October 1, 2026, a public holiday to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Day.
Barau said the anniversary should also serve as an opportunity to remember the sacrifices of Nigeria’s founding fathers and others who contributed to the country’s independence and nation-building efforts.
He said their contributions remained a reminder of the ideals of national unity, peace, justice, tolerance and a shared commitment to Nigeria’s progress and prosperity.
“After 66 years of independence, our country has made significant progress, even as we continue to confront challenges. With unity of purpose, resilience and faith in our collective capacity, Nigeria will overcome its present difficulties and emerge stronger,” he said.
The Deputy President of the Senate also urged Nigerians to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s efforts to implement the policies and programmes of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“With the cooperation of Nigerians, we will build a stronger, more prosperous and more secure nation. This is a time to remain hopeful and committed to the task of nation-building. We must all play our part in building the Nigeria we desire,” he said.
Barau said the National Assembly remained committed to providing the legislative framework required to address the country’s challenges.
He specifically referenced the State Police Bill currently before the State Houses of Assembly, saying its passage by the state legislatures and subsequent assent by the President would strengthen internal security and help address security challenges in parts of the country.
“We will continue to work with the Executive, within the framework of the Constitution, to provide the necessary legislative support for policies and programmes that promote economic growth, security, development and improved living conditions for Nigerians,” he added.
Barau wished Nigerians a peaceful and memorable 66th Independence Anniversary.
