FG marks low key 54th Independence anniversary

Delete This

 

               The Federal Government on Wednesday celebrated the nation’s 54th independence anniversary in a low-key at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
                    There was a Presidential change of guard to mark the occasion.
               The ceremony, which lasted for about two hours, was held at the fore-court of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, to replace the normal full military parade and entertainments of the past ceremony normally held at the Eagle Square, Abuja.

The event started with the arrival of President Jonathan.
He, however, did not appear in his ceremonial military uniform.
He inspected the quarter guards before walking to the Villa forecourt to receive national salute which was followed by rendition of the National Anthem.
The event witnessed the inspection of new Guard/Quarter guard, silent drills, posting of sentries and color.
Weapons and uniforms were also inspected to ensure conformity with military standards.
Shortly after the ceremony, President Jonathan signed the anniversary register, released pigeons from cage and assisted by some top dignitaries, he cut the anniversary cake.
Speaking with State House correspondents at the end of the event, former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, said, “I believe in Nigeria, I love Nigeria, and we all must work for Nigeria; that is everybody, the government and the opposition, in order to make Nigeria great. That is my wish. Nigeria will survive beyond 2015.”
On his part, the Deputy Speaker of House of Representatives, Emeka Ihedioha, said,”It is for us to continue the resolve to build our country, and to resolve to commonly address our common enemies and collectively decide to make Nigeria a great country.
The Peoples Democratic Party’s governorship aspirant in Delta State, Ngozi Olojeme said: “God has used President Jonathan to develop Nigeria to this level.”
Among those who attended the ceremony include the Vice President, Namadi Sambo, Senate President, Sen. David Mark, Former head of the Interim National Government, Chief Ernest Shonekan, former Vice President Alex Ekwueme and former Chief of General Staff,  Gen. Oladipo Diya, Delete This