President Bola Tinubu revealed that the decision to call off Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day military parade allowed him to rest properly and enjoy a fulfilling breakfast on Wednesday.
The Federal Government had earlier announced that the October 1 parade would not hold. A statement from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, signed by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations, clarified that the cancellation did not lessen the importance of the anniversary.
Speaking during the unveiling of the refurbished Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts (formerly the National Arts Theatre) in Lagos, Tinubu said the move gave him a welcome break from the usual routine.
“I’m grateful for this evening. The 65th Independence Anniversary feels different. By canceling the parade, I was able to sleep well, enjoy a nice breakfast, and look forward to tonight’s event. And it was worth it,” he stated.
Tinubu, who arrived at the event around 6:24 p.m., commended the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Bankers’ Committee for funding and managing the renovation.
Back in July, he had renamed the edifice after Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka, describing him as a rare asset to Nigeria, Africa, and the world.
“It could not have been named after anyone else,” Tinubu said, adding jokingly that Soyinka would never defy his directive.
The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, the Emir of Kano Muhammadu Sanusi II, and Professor Soyinka himself, who hosted the occasion.
