President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday led other government dignitaries including Vice President Kashim Shettima in a low key celebration of the 64th Independence anniversary of the nation at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The day witnessed a military parade held at the forecourt of the president’s office.
It followed intense security checks at the main gate of the villa to screen visitors invited to the occasion.
There was heightened security deployment at the forecourt itself, led by
the elite Brigade of Guards and supported by personnel from sister security agencies.
Heightened security measures were in place at the forecourt, led by the elite Brigade of Guards and supported by personnel from various security agencies.
Upon his arrival at 10 am, President Tinubu was welcomed by pipers who guided him into the arena after he inspected the Quarter Guard mounted by the Guards Brigade.
The President then ascended the saluting dias, taking the national salute as the Special Guest of Honour, signaling the official start of the event.
The 64th anniversary featured a presidential change of guards, followed by a Nigerian Armed Forces Colour patrol and displays celebrating the nation’s military and national pride.
This segment was succeeded by a Silent Drill Platoon from the Guards Brigade, which captivated guests, including cabinet ministers, presidential aides, and members of the diplomatic corps who gathered to witness the festivities.
Attendees were also treated to a diverse array of performances by a combined mass band and cultural troupe, representing the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria.
The event culminated with President Tinubu signing the anniversary register.
He was joined by Vice President Shettima, the leadership of the National Assembly, Service Chiefs, the Inspector General of Police, the National Security Adviser, and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, to cut the anniversary cake and release doves to symbolize peace in the nation.
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