Buhari Cuts Down Independence Anniversary Costs, Says Nigeria Can’t Afford To Be Extravagant Now

The Federal Government is to expend N70 million for the 55th
Independence anniversary celebrations which will commence on September 25, in
line with its cost-saving policy.

The Secretary to the Government, represented by the
Permanent Secretary (Political Affairs), Ibukun Odusote, disclosed this in
Abuja today stating that the government was cutting cost because of the present
state of the country’s economy.

This year’s celebration is indeed low-keyed because the
present administration appreciates the economic hardship that Nigerians and
indeed the nation is confronted with.

To address the situation, government has adopted a general
policy to be very prudent in the management of our financial resources. This
year’s celebration is, therefore, in consonance with the cost-saving policy of
this administration, he said.

He emphasised that the Federal Government would rather spend
more money on ensuring payment of workers’ salaries, better learning business
environment than on anniversary celebrations.

He further explained that the president had approved four
events for the anniversary which include the Jummat prayers, slated to hold at
the Abuja National Mosque on September 25 and the Inter-denominational
Thanksgiving Service holding at the Abuja National Christian Worship Centre on
September 27. Other events are the ceremonial Change of Guards slated for
October 1 at the Presidential Villa and children’s party on October 3.

Mr. Buhari would also address the nation at 7am on October
1, the SGF said.