By Abiola Olawale
The Federal Government has officially declared Tuesday, October 1, 2024, as a public holiday in observance of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on Saturday. This development has elicited mixed reactions among Nigerians.
While many, especially Civil servants are happy with the action as it affords them time to rest at home, some players in the private sector think differently. This group believe it takes much time off their business engagements
In a statement issued by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry of Interior, Dr Magdalene Ajani, the Minister congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad on the occasion of Nigeria’s independence anniversary.
He also commended the dedicated and industrious men and women of Nigeria, acknowledging that their hard work and sacrifices would yield meaningful results.
He reiterated the need for Nigerians to reflect on the “labour of our heroes past and be inspired for the tasks ahead, realizing that a Nigeria of our dream can only be built when we unite.”
While wishing Nigerians a Happy Independence Day anniversary, Tunji-Ojo urged the citizens to continue to be steadfast in nation-building.
Recall that Nigeria gained independence from the British colonial masters on October 1st, 1960 following agitations for independence by leading Nigerian nationalists including Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Chief Anthony Enahoro, Sir Ahmadu Bello, Mallam Aminu Kano, J.S. Tarka, Sir Udo Udoma, amongst others. Given the historic date when the Union Jack was lowered and Nigeria ‘s national flag was hoisted on the night of October 1, 1960, successive governments and Nigerians have always celebrated and marked that date as the country’s national day.
