President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Day anniversary in Lagos on October 1, rather than in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, where the government had planned a low-key national celebration.
The President is expected to arrive in Lagos on Tuesday, September 29, at the end of his extended working vacation in Europe. According to the Presidency, he will remain in the commercial capital through the Independence Day events before returning to Abuja later in the week.
Tinubu’s media aide, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed that the President will attend the premiere of MKO, a documentary honouring the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, at the National Theatre in Iganmu, Lagos, on October 1. The film chronicles the June 12, 1993 presidential election, its annulment, and the pro-democracy struggle that followed. The premiere forms part of the activities marking the anniversary.
The President is also expected to deliver his Independence Day broadcast from Lagos. The Federal Government had earlier indicated that the celebrations would remain low-key, with the nationwide address scheduled for October 1.
While in Lagos, Tinubu will hold strategic meetings with political leaders and associates as preparations for the 2027 general elections continue. His decision to centre Independence Day activities in the city means Lagos will host both the documentary premiere and the President’s national address.
Tinubu’s return to Lagos also brings his European working vacation to a close. He left Nigeria on August 30 and later travelled from London to Paris, combining rest with official engagements.