“All Hands on Deck” as Nigeria Marks 65th Independence
With just days to Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, the Federal Government has unveiled the theme that will guide this year’s national celebrations: “Nigeria @ 65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation.”
The declaration was made in Abuja by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) through its Director of Information and Public Relations, Segun Imohiosen.
According to him, the theme was carefully chosen to emphasize collective responsibility and the urgent need for every Nigerian to play a role in the country’s progress.
“Nation-building is not the work of government alone. It requires the active participation of all citizens, communities, and sectors of society. This theme is a call to unity and action,” Imohiosen said.
The Federal Government explained that the choice of theme reflects Nigeria’s resilience since gaining independence in 1960 and its determination to push forward despite daunting challenges.
Officials also noted that the message aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to reposition the country for economic growth, security, and social stability.
To commemorate the anniversary, the government has lined up a series of national events, including a Juma’at prayer on Friday, September 26, an inter-denominational church service on Sunday, September 28, and a world press conference on Monday, September 29 in Abuja.
These programmes will lead up to the October 1 independence commemoration, which the government says will be both celebratory and reflective.
The OSGF further directed ministries, agencies, and development partners to harmonize their activities with the anniversary theme to ensure that the message of unity resonates across the nation.
Independence anniversaries have historically mirrored Nigeria’s national journey, from the joy of 1960 to the turbulence of military rule, the devastation of civil war, and the eventual return to democracy.
Themes in previous years have often focused on peace, unity, and democratic consolidation. However, analysts argue that the 2025 theme—“All Hands on Deck”—is uniquely urgent.
Dr. Adaeze Ogbuehi, a political scientist at the University of Abuja, told Global Mirror News that the Government’s choice of words signals recognition of the country’s fragile state.
“Nigeria is at a crossroads. We are dealing with insecurity, inflation, unemployment, and social unrest.
By calling for ‘all hands on deck,’ the government is acknowledging that leadership alone cannot fix these issues. It is an appeal for partnership between the state and the people,” Ogbuehi explained.
Another observer, Lagos-based policy analyst Ibrahim Yusuf, added that the theme should not just remain a slogan but must translate into genuine reforms.
“Themes are powerful, but they must be matched with action. Nigerians want to see real improvements—better security, functioning infrastructure, and economic stability.
Otherwise, the message of collective action may ring hollow,” Yusuf noted.
As the countdown to October 1 continues, Nigerians are being reminded that independence is not just a celebration of the past but a reflection on the future.
The Federal Government insists that the task of building a greater Nigeria belongs to everyone—leaders and citizens alike.
