Buhari makes U-turn, to deliver Independence Day address via broadcast

President Muhammadu Buhari says he will address the nation via a televised broadcast at 7am to mark the independence day celebration.

Earlier on Wednesday, Femi Adesina, presidential spokesman, had issued a statement which noted that the president would address Nigerians live from the Eagle Square, Abuja, on October 1.

However, in a fresh statement, Adesina asked Nigerians to disregard the previous information as there will no longer be an open-air live address by the president.

He added that the president will proceed to the Eagle Square to review the Independence anniversary at 10am.

“As part of activities commemorating the 60th Independence anniversary of the country, President Muhammadu Buhari will broadcast to the nation on Thursday, October 1, 2020, at 7 am,” Adesina said.

“All television, radio and other electronic media outlets are enjoined to hook up to network services of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) respectively for the address.

“The President will, thereafter, proceed to the Eagle Square, Abuja to review the anniversary parade and participate in other activities beginning at 10 am, which will be covered live by major television and radio stations.

“This updated statement supersedes our earlier one indicating an open-air live presidential address on October 1.”