•How schools in Abuja marked Independence Day differently

By Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye and Adanna Nnamani

For decades, Nigeria’s Independence Day was defined by vibrant, disciplined march pasts held in grand stadiums across each state of the federation. Governors took salutes as students from public and private schools converged to display their patriotism and school pride. Dressed impeccably in their uniforms, white socks, polished shoes, gloves and berets, the students marched with precision, while some groups incorporated traditional dances and acrobatic displays to outshine others. Teachers, security personnel and other officials were also an integral part of these march pasts, eliciting applause from the crowds and fostering a sense of unity and national pride.

However, this grand celebration has changed markedly since the bombing at Eagle Square in 2010 during the President Goodluck Jonathan administration. The tragic incident, which cast a long shadow over public safety during such large gatherings, led to the scaling down of Independence Day celebrations. At the national level, the traditional march past, once the heartbeat of national celebrations, has been largely restricted to the Presidential Villa, with enhanced security and limited participation. This year, as Nigeria marked its 65th independence anniversary in 2025, the much-anticipated parade at the Presidential Villa was canceled at the last moment, leaving many to reflect on how the day is now commemorated.

In Abuja’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT), many schools adapted by observing the day in a low-key manner, probably following the cue of the Federal Government. The annual event that would normally see a colourful march past featuring students from across the city did not hold this year. According to a statement by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, the cancellation was not meant to diminish the importance of the day. Other official Independence Day activities, such as the presidential broadcast, cultural events and the grand finale of the National Campus Debate, continued as planned.

Some schools in Abuja celebrated Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day with patriotic displays and activities that fostered national pride. Many schools, such as Prime Scholars’ Schools and Benford International Schools, marked the day with special assemblies, cultural presentations and prayers for the nation. They also shared Independence Day greetings and patriotic messages on social media to join the nationwide celebration of Nigeria’s 65 years of independence.

The celebrations included dress codes in Nigeria’s national colours, performances by students showcasing cultural heritage, and communal prayers for peace, unity and national progress. The activities were part of a broader Abuja community engagement where various groups gathered to celebrate with fun, unity and reflection on Nigeria’s achievements and aspirations

A visit to the Local Education Authority (LEA) Primary School in Saburi 1, Dei-Dei, revealed a sombre atmosphere with pupils engaged in regular lessons. Headmistress, Hadiza Adamu, told Abuja Metro that the school had no special programmes planned for the day and would simply observe the public holiday declared by the government. She recalled that the school participated last year in the Independence parade held in Karshi but was not selected this time, explaining that the selection rotates among schools in neighbouring communities because not all schools can participate every year.

Despite the cancellation of the grand parade, some schools in the FCT chose to celebrate Nigeria’s Independence Day by embracing the country’s rich cultural diversity through special events.

On September 30, 2025, Meadowlands School, a private Christian institution located in Durumi, Abuja, hosted a National and Cultural Day celebration, themed “Celebrating Heritage, Inspiring Future Leaders.” The event brought together students, parents, and guests to appreciate Nigeria’s ethnic and cultural heritage in an inspiring manner.

Head of primary education at Meadowlands School, Andymarie Ikhine, warmly welcomed attendees and expressed his delight at the growing presence of parents joining in the festivities. He emphasised the excitement and significance of showcasing the beauty and diversity of Nigeria’s cultures. Students from different year groups represented prominent Nigerian ethnic groups, bringing to life traditional greetings, attire, dance and cuisine from various regions of the country. These included Yoruba culture in the South West, Tiv from the Middle Belt, Fulani from the North, Edo from the South-South zone, Ijaw from the Niger Delta, and the Efik people.

Guest speaker, Beatrice Yepwi, captured the spirit of the occasion, highlighting the event’s theme. She said, “By embracing our cultural legacy, we nurture the leaders of tomorrow. Celebrating heritage today inspires our future leaders to understand their roots and responsibilities.” Her message resonated deeply with the students and parents in attendance.

Founded in 2014 by Apostle Goodheart and Pastor Bimbo Ekwueme, Meadowlands School aims “to raise godly children who would excel globally.” The school’s commitment to promoting national pride alongside Christian values was evident in the thoughtful presentations and culturally rich event.

Reflecting on the shift in Independence Day celebrations over the years, several educators and observers lamented the loss of the traditional large-scale march pasts while recognizing the imperative of safety in a challenging security environment. “Independence Day is not just about the parade,” noted one teacher at Meadowlands. “It is about understanding and appreciating where we come from, and what we can be together.”

This perspective gained particular relevance in Abuja, where the focus on cultural identity, languages and customs offers an inclusive way to bring students closer to their roots while fostering national unity in diversity. Instead of marching en masse, students explored Nigeria’s multiplicity through dance, language and food, creating a living mosaic of the nation’s heritage within school walls.

As Nigeria reflects on 65 years of nationhood, there is a growing movement to reimagine the holiday—blending historical awareness, cultural pride and leadership development. While the grand parades may have been paused, the spirit of Independence Day continues vibrantly in classrooms, cultural halls and young hearts, driving the country forward.

One student aptly expressed the sentiment that echoed through the event: “Every dance step, every greeting, every dish we share today tells the story of Nigeria. This is how we keep our country alive—by loving and knowing it deeply.”

Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day thus stands not only as a testament to resilience and unity but also as a reminder of the evolving ways a diverse nation can honour its freedom while nurturing the leaders of tomorrow.

The post Nigeria @ 65: From march past to cultural celebrations appeared first on The Sun Nigeria.