Tinubu to Address Nigerians as Nigeria Marks 66th Independence Anniversary

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is scheduled to address Nigerians in a nationwide broadcast on Thursday, October 1, as the country marks its 66th Independence Anniversary. The broadcast is part of the Federal Government’s programme for the 2026 Independence celebrations, which have been designed as a relatively low-key commemoration. Nigeria gained independence from British colonial rule on October 1, 1960. This year’s anniversary programme is being held under the theme, “From Reforms to Stability: Consolidating Nigeria’s Renewed Hope for Shared Prosperity.” The Federal Government’s anniversary programme began earlier in September with a series of activities leading up to Independence Day. An Independence Day Public Lecture is scheduled for Wednesday, September 30, while President Tinubu’s nationwide address will take place on October 1. The President is also expected to participate in Independence-related activities in Lagos. According to the Presidency’s programme, Tinubu returned to Nigeria on Tuesday, September 29, after spending about four weeks in Europe on what was described as a working vacation. He is expected to remain in Lagos for the anniversary activities before returning to Abuja after the celebrations and other official engagements. The President’s Independence Day address comes at a time when Nigerians are following developments around the economy, security, reforms and the cost of living. The Federal Government has said the anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on Nigeria’s journey since 1960 while highlighting efforts toward economic stability, growth and shared prosperity. The government has also said the celebration will provide an opportunity to reflect on the contributions and sacrifices of the country’s independence-era nationalists. Unlike some previous anniversary celebrations, the Federal Government opted for a low-key programme for the 66th Independence anniversary. The programme includes religious services, a public lecture and other official engagements before the President’s national broadcast on October 1. The anniversary will see Nigerians across the country mark 66 years of independence through various official, community and private activities. President Tinubu’s broadcast will be one of the major moments of the celebration, as Nigerians await the President’s message on the country’s journey, current developments and the direction of the administration. Nigeria will officially mark 66 years of independence on Thursday, October 1, 2026.