The declaration was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, in a statement signed and released on Monday by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani.

According to the statement, Tunji-Ojo congratulated Nigerians at home and in the diaspora and urged citizens to uphold the patriotic spirit, unity and resilience that have sustained the nation since 1960.

“He urged Nigerians to further keep faith in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, which is anchored on national rebirth, economic transformation, and collective prosperity.

“The Minister expressed confidence that, with the cooperation of all Nigerians, the country will continue to grow stronger in peace, progress, and development,” the statement added.

He wished Nigerians a happy and memorable 2025 Independence Day celebration.

Nigeria gained independence from British colonial rule on October 1, 1960.

This year anniversary is tagged “Nigeria @ 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation,” activities for celebration has begun with prayer at mosques and churches.

. As SCDC deploys 4,500 personnel to man critical assets in Abuja

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, has announced the deployment of 4,500 personnel across Abuja to ensure a hitch-free celebration of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary on October 1.

Commandant of the FCT Command, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, disclosed in Abuja on Monday that the massive deployment was designed to safeguard lives and property, as well as protect critical national assets and infrastructure before, during, and after the celebration.

According to him, the personnel cut across specialized departments and tactical units of the corps, including the Female Strike Force, Arms Squad, Operation Adakasu, Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI) unit, and the Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and Explosives (CBRNE) unit.

The commandant explained that the security operation would cover soft targets and vulnerable locations such as shopping malls, recreational centres, markets, motor parks, amusement parks, prayer grounds, government buildings, the City Gate, and the Three Arms Zone.

Black spots like uncompleted buildings often used as hideouts by criminals have also been placed under surveillance.

Odumosu further revealed that undercover operatives had already been deployed to carry out covert operations and intelligence gathering to prevent emergencies or unforeseen security breaches.

Giving marching orders to area commanders and divisional officers, he directed them to maintain strong visibility across all area councils in the FCT.

“All hands must be on deck. I will not tolerate any form of breach. Ensure you deploy your personnel adequately,” he warned.

While charging his officers to be disciplined and professional, Odumosu emphasized the need for synergy with other security agencies and reminded operatives to strictly adhere to the rules of engagement, avoid harassment and intimidation of citizens, and prevent accidental discharges.

Reassuring residents of a safe celebration, the commandant urged them to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest security agency.

“My personnel are ready to ensure a peaceful celebration, but you also have a role to play by being proactive,” he said.

Odumosu also issued a stern warning to criminals and vandals to steer clear of critical national assets, stressing that covert NSCDC operatives are already strategically positioned across the capital city and would not hesitate to bring offenders to justice.

He concluded by wishing FCT residents a joyous Independence Day celebration while praying for the peace, unity, and prosperity of the country.