FG reveals why world leaders would not attend independence anniversary
George Akume, the secretary to the Federal Government of Nigeria, has revealed the coming independence anniversary might be shorn of the usual attendance of world leaders.
Akume told journalists the government planned to have a ‘low-keyed’ celebration, due to the harsh economic realities facing the country.
He said, “Low keyed celebration has nothing to do with whether we’re not doing well. Economic times are hard, we are looking at it not just at the national level but also as a family.
Akume continued: “We have not invited world leaders. During the inauguration of the President, 53 world leaders were invited, so we have not invited any world leader.
“As you are aware, the President has given his approval for this 63rd anniversary to be low-key in line with the present economic realities. The theme of the anniversary is “Nigeria @ 63, Renewed Hope for Unity & Prosperity.”
Equally, Akume noted the wave of coups taking place in the African continent.
He said, “Despite political tremors and a wave of coups in some parts of the ECOWAS sub-region, Nigerians have fully embraced democracy with its core values and practices as the best form of governance.
“Democracy affords the citizens the opportunity through elective structures and processes to effectively participate in the affairs of their country.
“The relationship between the people and government in a representative democracy is symbiotic: while the citizens support the government, the government provides security, protects, and enhances their interests.
“The government is fully aware of the economic challenges that Nigerians are confronted with since the removal of the fuel subsidy as well as the impact of the global economic downturn. The government is working assiduously to provide the necessary palliatives so as to mitigate such challenges and also the provision of buses to ease hardship on transportation among others. At the same time, the government is engaging with labour in order to address areas of concern for the well-being of all Nigerian workers and Nigerians generally.”
The government similarly revealed the event’s programme line up, which include a symposium/public Lecture holding on Thursday, September 28, 2023 at State House Conference Center @ 10 am.
Also, the government has slated a lecture to hold on Friday September 29 2023 at the National Mosque Conference Center by 10 am, and Juma’at Prayer at the National Mosque at 1pm.
On Sunday, Akume said President Tinubu would deliver a presidential broadcast at 7am, followed by an inter-denominational church service on Sunday, October 1, 2023 at the National Christian Center at 10:00 am and a military parade on Monday, October 2 2023 at the Presidential Villa, at 9am.”
