NIGERIA’S INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATION: MINISTER OF INFORMATION HOSTS WORLD PRESS CONFERENCE

-Special Report-

NIGERIA AT 65 - WORLD PRESS CONFERENCE

On Monday, September 29, 2025, the Federal Government of Nigeria convened a landmark World Press Conference in Abuja to commemorate the nation’s 65th Independence Anniversary.

The event, held at the National Press Centre, Radio House, was attended by key government officials, including the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, and the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.

The theme of the anniversary, “Nigeria @ 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation,” served as both a rallying cry and a reflection of the administration’s commitment to inclusive national development. Minister Idris emphasized that the theme was a heartfelt call to citizens, institutions, and international partners to unite in support of the sweeping reforms underway under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

In his address, Senator Akume described Nigeria as a “work in progress,” acknowledging the trials and triumphs that have shaped the nation since its independence in 1960. He urged Nigerians to embrace patience and shared responsibility, noting that resilience remains the bedrock of the country’s unity and progress.

Minister Idris outlined a series of transformative initiatives, including the unveiling of the National Value Charter, which articulates the government’s commitments to equality, entrepreneurship, peace, and meritocracy, alongside citizens’ obligations such as discipline, accountability, and tolerance. He also announced the upcoming implementation of the Tax Acts quartet in January 2026, designed to expand Nigeria’s revenue base while simplifying tax collection and easing the burden on citizens.

The press conference highlighted several achievements under the Tinubu administration, including increased oil production, reduced gas flaring, rising trade surpluses from the non-oil sector, and strengthened external reserves. The government also celebrated the fiscal reintegration of local governments and the establishment of five new regional development commissions to catalyze grassroots growth.

Education was another focal point, with over 500,000 tertiary students already benefiting from the National Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), a historic initiative covering tuition and upkeep costs. Additionally, the administration is preparing to launch one of the world’s largest distributed renewable energy projects, the $750 million DARES initiative, aimed at delivering clean electricity to over 17.5 million Nigerians.

The conference concluded with a call for unity and optimism. Both Akume and Idris praised the media’s role in shaping national narratives and urged citizens to set aside divisions, reaffirming that Nigeria’s best days lie ahead.

The event was part of a series of low-key but meaningful activities, including interfaith services and a national student debate, designed to foster reflection, pride, and renewed commitment to the nation’s future.