President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima on Tuesday led other top government officials to celebrate Nigeria’s 64th Independence anniversary at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The anniversary with the theme “Reflecting on the Past, Inspiring The Future” was celebrated in a low-key manner, following the directive of the president because of the prevailing situation in the country.
Earlier in the day, President Tinubu addressed the nation where he disclosed that his administration initiated the ongoing reforms to save the country from collapse.
Meanwhile, at the forecourt of the Presidential Villa, the celebration commenced with the arrival of the president, who was the guest of honour, accompanied by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
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President Tinubu was received at the forecourt by military guards who ushered him into the arena after an inspection of the Quarter Guard mounted by troops of the Guards Brigade.
The 64th anniversary witnessed a presidential change of guards, which paved the way for a Nigerian Armed Forces Colour Patrol and displays to symbolise Nigeria’s national and military pride.
The segment was also followed by a Guards Brigade Silent Drill Platoon, which awed guests and other spectators including cabinet ministers, presidential aides as well as members of the diplomatic corps.
Guests at the venue were also treated to a cultural performances by a combined mass band and displays put together by a cultural troupe drawn from the six geopolitical zones to depict the country’s diversity.
President Tinubu accompanied by the First Lady and other dignitaries, thereafter proceeded to cut the anniversary cake as well as release the anniversary pigeons to symbolise peace.
Other government functionaries at the ceremony were President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio and Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Kubirat Kekere-Ekun; former Vice President Namadi Sambo; members of the Federal Executive Council; National Assembly members; members of the diplomatic corps among others.
Also present were the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, Chief of Defence Staff, heads of security agencies, the head of the National Intelligence Agency and the director general of the Directorate of State Service.
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