FG MARKS THE INDEPENDENT DAY ANNIVERSARY IN A VERY LOW KEY

The Federal Government on Tuesday marked the nation’s 53rd independence anniversary in a low-key fashion at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

However, there was a special 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 characteristic of the previous ones held at the Eagle Square.

President Goodluck Jonathan had earlier indicated that this year’s anniversary would be low keyed involving only the usual change of guards which he said was a normal exercise carried out on Monday mornings but for the independence anniversary, it was shifted to Tuesday.

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 marching to the Villa forecourt to receive national salute which was followed by rendition of the National Anthem.

The prayers were offered by the President of Christians Association of Nigeria (CAN), Pastor Ayo Oritshejafor, who read from the Holy Bible Genesis 8:5 before rendering Christian prayer while the Chief Imam of the Abuja National Mosque, Shiek Usman Muhammad, rendered the Muslim version.

The event witnessed the inspection of new Guard/Quarter guard, silent drills, posting of sentries and colour. Weapons and uniforms were 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 later cut the anniversary cake.

Among those who attended the ceremony were – the Peoples Democratic Party National Chairman, Alhaji Bamanga Tukur; Primate of Anglican Communion, Arch Bishop Rev. Nicholas Okoh; PDP BoT Chairman, Chief Tony Anineh; Former Information Minister, Prof .Jerry Gana; Former Senate President, Sen. Adolphus Wabara; and Former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon.

Others were the Speaker of House of Representatives, Hon. Aminu Tambuwal and his Deputy, Emeka Ihedioha; Senate President, Sen. David Mark; former Head of Civil Service, Steven Orasenye; former Senate President, Sen. Ken Nnamani, former head of the Interim National Government, Chief Ernest Shonekan, Chief Justice of the Federation; Service Chiefs; ministers and top government functionaries and members of the diplomatic corps.