September 29, (THEWILL) — The Federal Government, on Monday, said Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary will be marked with low-key activities, emphasising reflection, national unity, and responsible citizenship.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, disclosed this during a pre-independence world press conference in Abuja.
Highlighting the theme of the celebration – “All Hands on Deck”, Idris said the programme will kick off with Jummat Prayers on Friday and a Thanksgiving Service on Sunday, while other activities lined up include a national students’ debate and the unveiling of the National Value Charter, spearheaded by the National Orientation Agency (NOA).
He explained that the charter is a framework designed to instil national pride and strengthen civic responsibility by highlighting government commitments on one hand and citizens’ obligations on the other.
The document is divided into two parts: The Nigerian Promise, which outlines the government’s pledge to uphold equality, freedom, entrepreneurship, peace, inclusivity and meritocracy; and The Citizens’ Commitment, which stresses discipline, accountability and tolerance as civic duties.
To drive the message home, the NOA plans to embark on sensitisation campaigns, engage community stakeholders, and leverage digital platforms to promote shared values across the country.
The charter also features a Citizens’ Code, urging Nigerians to embrace discipline, duty of care, tolerance, leadership, accountability, environmental awareness and resilience.
“Activities will be low-key. We started with the Jummat Prayers on Friday and the Thanksgiving Service on Sunday. The National Value Charter, as championed by the National Orientation Agency, will also be unveiled. The National Students’ debate is also another activity that will be held to mark the 65th independence anniversary celebration”, he said
Idris said the decision to keep the anniversary modest reflects its focus on national renewal rather than fanfare.
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