President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday led the Independence Day celebrations at the State House in Abuja, marking the event with a colourful parade and cultural displays.
Dignitaries comprising senior government officials and members of the cabinet began arriving at the venue from 8 a.m., reflecting Nigeria’s diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds.
Among the attendees were also members of the diplomatic corps.
The event underscored national unity, with many guests, including government ministers, dressed in the unity fabric attire recently launched by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
The leadership of Nigeria’s armed forces and judiciary, including Chief Justice Kudirat Kekere Ekun, were also present, alongside National Assembly officials.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, accompanied by his wife Nana, arrived some minutes before 10am, while President Tinubu made his entrance shortly after 10 a.m. wearing his signature agbada and cap with a national salute and the Nigerian anthem to welcome the Nigerian leader.
Following a military parade led by Lieutenant Colonel Moshood Abiodun, guests were treated to military drills and a ceremonial change of guards by the Brigade of Guards.
The display also featured a combined armed forces colour patrol, symbolising the unity of Nigeria’s military services.
Cultural performances from the six geopolitical zones highlighted the country’s diversity, celebrating the theme of unity and collaboration.
The displays showcased Nigeria’s rich traditions and the role of national unity in driving economic progress.
President Tinubu concluded the ceremony by signing the anniversary register, releasing commemorative pigeons, and cutting the Independence Day cake.
The event concluded with a symbolic four-colour parade, harking back to the historic guard change on 1 October 1960.
Among the distinguished guests at the colourful ceremony were Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.
Former Vice President Namadi Sambo and the heads of various security and intelligence agencies were also in attendance.
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