ABUJA – True to his earlier promise, austere President Mohammadu Buhari led Federal Government yesterday, celebrated the Nigeria’s 55th Independence anniversary in a low-key at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
On hand to join him in the celebration that also witnessed presidential change of guard to mark the occasion, were Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, leadership of the National Assembly, including President of the Senate of the Federal Republic, Sen. Bukola Saraki and Speaker Yakubu Dogara of the House of Representatives and Chief Justice of Nigeria, Mahmud Mohammed.
Unlike his predecessor in office, President Buhari did not appear in the ceremonial military uniform as the Commander-In-Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces as he inspected the quarter guards before walking to the Villa forecourt to receive national salute which was followed by rendition of the National Anthem.
There was also 21-gun salute to herald the 55th Nigeria Independence and in honour of Mr. President. The event also witnessed inspection of new Guard/Quarter guard, silent drills, posting of sentries and color parade, weapons and uniforms inspections to ensure conformity with military standards.
Shortly after the ceremony, President Buhari signed the anniversary register, released pigeons from the cage and he was assisted by some dignitaries to cut the anniversary cake.
Besides the pruning down of the anniversary celebration budget to N70 million unlike the huge resources it gulped over the years, the celebration was the first in the democratic administration of President Muhammadu Buhari.
The about two hours ceremony was held at the fore-court of the Presidential Villa, Abuja, replacing the full military parade, drills and entertainments which used to hold at the Eagle Square, Abuja, before 2010.
Since October 1, 2010 when the anniversary celebration was marred by explosions at the Eagle Square, subsequent celebrations under former President Goodluck Jonathan took place in Aso Rock.
Also at the ceremony were the former head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (rtd), former head of the Interim National Government, Chief Ernest Shonekan, former Vice President Alex Ekwueme, former Chief of General. Staff, Gen. Oladipo Diya, former Senate President, Joseph Wayas, and Service chiefs.
The occasion was also graced by the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), John Odigie-Oyegun, former Adamawa State Governor, Murtala Nyako and APC governorship candidate in Bayelsa, Timipre Sylva.
Top government functionaries and members of the diplomatic corps also attended the ceremony.
