President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has explained why the traditional military parade marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day was cancelled, noting that the decision gave him an unusual chance to rest and enjoy a “nice breakfast.”
Speaking at the reopening of the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts in Lagos on Wednesday evening, Tinubu said breaking away from the routine of “military march-past, parade and everything” allowed him to spend the day differently.
> “It afforded me the opportunity to sleep well and enjoy a nice breakfast before coming here this evening,” the President remarked with a smile.
The Presidency had earlier announced the cancellation through a statement signed by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, assuring Nigerians that the decision did not diminish the significance of the anniversary.
At the Lagos ceremony, attended by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, Emir of Kano Muhammadu Sanusi II and other dignitaries, the President renamed the national edifice in Soyinka’s honour.
The cancellation of the parade has, however, generated mixed reactions. While some Nigerians welcomed the cultural focus of the day, others criticized the government for failing to explain the reasons behind the decision. Critics also faulted the President’s tone, saying his comments about “sleep and breakfast” were insensitive at a time when many citizens face worsening economic hardship.
Former presidential aide Lauretta Onochie joined those condemning the move, warning that those responsible for cancelling the national event “are in trouble” and describing it as a misstep.
Despite the controversy, President Tinubu assured Nigerians that the day remained symbolic of the country’s unity and resilience, adding that the celebration of nationhood goes beyond military displays.
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