The Federal Government on Sunday held a national thanksgiving service at the National Ecumenical Centre, Abuja, to usher in activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day celebration.
The event drew several top government functionaries, including the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, alongside their spouses.
Also in attendance were the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, Wale Edun; former Plateau State Governor, Simon Lalong; the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and other service chiefs.
Speaking at the service, SGF George Akume said the thanksgiving was a reminder of the need for collective responsibility in nation-building.
“We gather here not just to thank God for Nigeria’s journey so far, but to renew our commitment to work together for a greater nation,” he said.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio also urged citizens to support government efforts toward national unity. “At 65, Nigeria must show resilience. We must set aside our divisions and put all hands on deck for progress and stability,” he said.
This year’s celebration is themed “Nigeria @ 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation.” According to the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, other events lined up include a Juma’at Prayer, an inter-denominational church service, and a world press conference.
Former Heads of State, including Yakubu Gowon, Olusegun Obasanjo, and Goodluck Jonathan, are also expected to join President Bola Tinubu at a national discourse slated for October 2 at the Island Club, Lagos.
General Musa, who led the service chiefs to the thanksgiving, described the event as symbolic. “The military remains committed to safeguarding the peace of our country, and we stand united with the government and people of Nigeria in this celebration,” he said.
The thanksgiving marks the beginning of the weeklong activities leading to Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary on October 1, 2025.
