President Bola Tinubu to Celebrate Nigeria’s 66th Independence Day in Lagos

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will observe Nigeria’s 66th Independence Day away from the nation’s capital, Abuja. Instead, the President will lead national celebrations from Lagos State on October 1.

The announcement was confirmed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, following President Tinubu’s return from an official visit to France.

Highlighting History: Premiere of MKO Abiola Movie

As part of the October 1 itinerary, President Tinubu will attend the premiere of a major biographical film honoring the late Chief MKO Abiola. Abiola was the acclaimed winner of the historic June 12, 1993, presidential election.

The event will take place at the Wole Soyinka National Theatre in Iganmu, Lagos. The venue serves as a major national landmark for cultural and historic events.

Key Highlights of the President’s Visit

• National Address: President Tinubu will deliver his traditional Independence Day broadcast directly to the nation from Lagos.

• Low-Key Observance: Official events for the 66th anniversary will remain modest in scale.

• Strategic Consultations: Over the course of his stay, the President is scheduled to meet with key political leaders and associates in Lagos to discuss strategy ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The move marks a departure from standard protocol, bringing the focal point of Nigeria’s national birthday to its economic hub.