October 1: Tinubu Prepares For Major National Broadcast As Nigeria Turns 66

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to address Nigerians in a nationwide broadcast on October 1, 2026, as the country marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the Federal Government announced the planned broadcast as it inaugurated an Inter-Ministerial Committee responsible for coordinating activities for this year’s Independence celebration.

The committee held its inaugural meeting on Thursday, where government officials outlined plans for the anniversary and preparations leading up to October 1.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said the Independence anniversary would provide an opportunity to reflect on the contributions and sacrifices of Nigeria’s founding fathers and heroines.

Akume, who was represented at the meeting by Permanent Secretary Bekearedebo Augusta Warrens, also said the occasion would be used to highlight the administration’s reforms and efforts to reposition the country amid prevailing socio-economic challenges.

The SGF directed the committee to ensure that activities marking this year’s anniversary remain low-key, while urging members to work with urgency because of the limited time available before October 1.

The planned nationwide broadcast will give Nigerians an opportunity to hear directly from President Tinubu as part of the official Independence Day programme. The President is expected to address issues surrounding the country’s development and other matters of national interest, although the specific contents of the speech have not been announced.

Tinubu similarly delivered a nationwide broadcast on October 1, 2025, during Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, when he reflected on the country’s journey since independence and discussed his administration’s economic reforms and national development agenda.

The 2026 Independence celebration will mark 66 years since Nigeria gained independence from British colonial rule on October 1, 1960, with the Federal Government expected to release further details on the activities planned for the anniversary.