Kaduna Shocks Nigerians, Suspends 66th Independence Day Celebration

The Kaduna State Government has suspended its 66th Independence Day celebration, which was scheduled to take place on Thursday, October 1, 2026.

The decision was approved by Governor Uba Sani and announced by the state Commissioner for Information and Culture, Ahmed Maiyaki, in a statement issued on Tuesday, September 29, on behalf of the governor.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the suspension took effect immediately, with the state government informing residents, stakeholders and other members of the public of the cancellation of the planned celebration.

In the statement titled “Suspension of the 66th National Independence Day Celebration,” Maiyaki said the state government regretted any inconvenience the decision might cause and appreciated residents and stakeholders for their understanding and cooperation.

The suspension comes just days after Kaduna State had begun preparations for the Independence anniversary. The state had organised special prayers for peace, stability and economic prosperity as part of activities leading to the October 1 celebration.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government is proceeding with its programme for Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary. The programme includes an Independence Day public lecture on September 30 and a nationwide broadcast by President Bola Tinubu on October 1.

Tinubu is expected to mark the anniversary in Lagos, where he is scheduled to remain through October 1 before returning to Abuja.

The Federal Government had earlier announced that this year’s national Independence Day activities would be low-key, with emphasis on reflecting on Nigeria’s journey since independence and the contributions of its founding nationalists.