The 2023 Independence Day celebration in Nigeria is set to be a low-key affair, according to a statement made by George Akume, the Secretary to the Nigerian Government. Akume made this announcement on Wednesday in Abuja following a meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima. He emphasised the historical significance of Independence Day and explained the decision for the subdued celebration.
While addressing State House Correspondents, Akume stated, “Independence Day is a very historic event for any country and we in Nigeria are no exception. We are fully prepared for this year’s celebration but for obvious reasons, it is going to be low-keyed.
The Secretary to the Government further clarified that there would be no extravagant festivities at prominent venues like the Eagle Square and other locations. Instead, the occasion will serve as an opportunity for Nigerian citizens to engage in reflection about the country’s unity and its path forward.
“This year’s celebration is going to be low-keyed, there will be no room for a fantastic jamboree at the Eagle Square and other locations,”
Akume assured the public that better days await Nigeria under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu. He encouraged citizens to use this Independence Day as a moment of contemplation, recognising that the nation’s journey ahead holds promise.
“It is a time for reflection for us as a people and the journey forward for the nation, which is being led appropriately by the captain of the ship, President Bola Tinubu. We are wishing Nigerians the best of luck and we want to assure them that better days are coming and pretty soon too,” he affirmed.
Regarding the impending strike threatened by organised labour, Akume expressed optimism that the government would address the issues raised by labor unions through peaceful negotiations. He called upon labor leaders to exercise patience as the government works towards resolving their demands.
“The Labor leaders are very patriotic Nigerians, and we want to believe correctly that nobody would want to have a strike at this time of our history because it is not in the interest of the workers and it is not in the interest of anybody,” Akume emphasised.
He also acknowledged the government’s commitment to improving the standard of living for Nigerian workers and fostering prosperity for all. Akume highlighted that such endeavors require time and should not be evaluated solely based on the few months the government has been in office.
The announcement of a low-key Independence Day celebration comes as Nigeria grapples with various challenges, emphasising the importance of reflection and unity during this pivotal national occasion.
