Independence Day: FG Declares October 1 Public Holiday

Independence Day: FG Declares October 1 Public Holiday 

BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja 

        Aregbesola 

In commemoration of Nigeria's 61st Independence anniversary as an indivisible entity, the federal government has declared 1st October, 2021 as a public holiday. 

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Shuaib Belgore, disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen in Abuja yesterday. 

He quoted the Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola as saying that the government remains committed in tackling and eradicating all forms of challenges, whether political, socio-economic and all diverse problems.

Aregbesola congratulated Nigerians on the celebration of the country's 61st independence anniversary. 

He noted that the celebration would be bereft of the usual pomp and pageantry given the presence of COVID-19 third Delta variant in the country. 

The statement reads, "Our warmth, welcoming spirit and love as well as the abundant wealth inherent in our human capital and the richness of our land, makes Nigeria unarguably the leading black nation in the world and Africa’s pride and beacon of hope, if we can rally ourselves together to harness our potentials". 

According to him, “A country of about 200 million people and above, whose natural talent, grit and passion glitter like the precious diamond that we are. Nigerians are sparkling like diamonds in the pack, whether in academia, business, innovation, music, movie, entertainment, fashion and culture. We are indeed the leading black nation in the entire world and no doubt Africa’s pride and beacon of hope.”

“Celebrating Nigeria’s 61st independence anniversary is necessary but the safety of the citizenry is Mr. President’s huge concern, especially with COVID-19 third Delta variant still in place. Therefore, this year’s celebration is being held without the usual pomp and pageantry".

"While wishing Nigerians a fruitful independence celebration, he reminded them of the fact that the nation’s founding fathers, in spite of the differences in faith, tribe and tongue, came together for Nigeria’s independence". 

He enjoined Nigerians to join hands together with the present administration in its desire to attain a better Nigeria for all citizens, both at home and abroad.