President Muhammadu Buhari joined hundreds of dignitaries to mark Nigeria’s 59th Independence Anniversary at the forecourt of the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Tuesday.
Notable dignitaries at the event which was held at the forecourt of the Presidential Villa in Abuja were Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, President of the Senate, Mr Ahmed Lawal; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila; and the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Muhammad Ibrahim Tanko.
Others are former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (rtd), former Vice President Mohammed Namadi Sambo and a former Chief of Staff Supreme Headquarters, retired Gen. Oladipo Diya.
Other dignitaries are the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr Boss Mustapha; national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Mr Adams Oshiomhole; service chiefs and heads of security agencies.
Buhari, who appeared in blue traditional attire, inspected a quarter guard before marching to receive national salute.
The salute was followed by rendition of the national anthem, military parade and silent drill and special displays.
There were band displays, 21 gun salutes and presidential change of guard from 177 Guard Battalion to 7th Battalion of the Guards Brigade.
The president later signed register, released 59 pigeons from a cage and cut the anniversary cake in conjunction with the dignitaries.
