President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has revealed that the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day military parade gave him the rare opportunity to rest, enjoy a good breakfast, and prepare for the unveiling of the newly renovated Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts in Lagos.
The Federal Government had earlier announced the cancellation of the parade scheduled for October 1, with a statement signed by the Director of Information and Public Relations in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Segun Imohiosen, stressing that the move “is in no way a diminishment of the significance of this milestone anniversary.”
“I Slept Well and Had a Nice Breakfast” — Tinubu
Speaking at the reopening of the renovated edifice, formerly known as the National Arts Theatre, President Tinubu said the change in the Independence Day tradition was a welcome break from routine.
“I’m more than grateful for tonight. I enjoyed the evening. Happy 65th Independence Anniversary. This has broken the monotony of military march-past, parade and everything.
“By cancelling this programme, I was able to have a good sleep, have a nice breakfast and wait for this evening. And the evening is well spent,” he said.
Honouring Wole Soyinka
Tinubu had earlier in July renamed the building after Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, describing him as “one of the greatest assets of the world, Africa and Nigeria.”
“So, it couldn’t have been anything else and I know definitely you (referring to Soyinka) will not disobey this president. I said it has to be Wole Soyinka Centre,” Tinubu added.
The renovation project was funded and overseen by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) in collaboration with the Bankers’ Committee.
