By Francesca Hangeior.
President Bola Tinubu has arrived at the forecourt of the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, Abuja, for the 64th Independence Day Parade.
Tinubu who is the special guest of honour was ushered into the arena at about 10:10 am for the event themed ‘Reflecting on the Past; Inspiring the Future.’
After the national salute, he proceeded to inspect the Guard of Honour consisting of members of the Nigeria Armed Forces led by Lt. Col. Moshood Yusuf.
Tuesday’s ceremony is Tinubu’s second Independence Day observance as President.
Although Eagle Square hosted such ceremonies in the past, the current administration moved the activities back to the Villa.
Announcing this development in October 2023, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, said the Independence Day anniversary will be observed low-key due to the tumultuous state of the economy.
Also seated for the ceremony are: Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, SGF Akume, the National Security Adviser, Mr. Nuhu Ribadu; Service Chiefs and the Inspector General of Police, cabinet members, former presidents and vice presidents, heads of paramilitary organisations and members of the diplomatic corps.