The Federal Government has inaugurated an Inter-Ministerial Committee to coordinate activities for Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, with President Bola Tinubu scheduled to address Nigerians in a nationwide broadcast on October 1.

The committee was inaugurated on Thursday under the chairmanship of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Political and Economic Affairs Office, Bekearedebo Augusta Warrens.

Akume said the anniversary would provide an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the sacrifices and contributions of the country’s founding nationalists and the progress recorded since independence.

He said the celebration would also enable the Federal Government to highlight its reform initiatives and efforts to reposition the country amid prevailing socio-economic challenges.

The SGF, however, said this year’s activities would be conducted on a low-key basis, directing members of the committee to work with urgency ahead of October 1.

The programme will begin with a World Press Conference on September 24, followed by a Juma’at Service on September 25 and a Church Service on September 27.

An Independence Day Public Lecture is scheduled for September 30, while the programme will culminate in Tinubu’s nationwide broadcast on October 1.

The Inter-Ministerial Committee comprises the SGF as chairman and several ministers, presidential advisers, permanent secretaries and heads of security agencies.

Its responsibilities include planning and executing approved activities for the anniversary, documenting the events and carrying out other assignments necessary for the successful organisation of the celebration.

The committee may also co-opt relevant organisations and individuals to support the implementation of the programme.