Drums were rolled out yesterday to mark the nation’s Independence anniversary in Abuja – the first time in seven years.
The last time a full-fledged Independence Day parade was held was in 2010 to mark the country’s 50th anniversary. But it was marred by an explosion, which occurred near the Eagle Square venue.
President Muhammadu Buhari took the salute at the Eagle Square, Abuja, as military and para-military organisations held a colourful parade in commemoration of Nigeria’s 58thIndependence.
On arrival at the square, the president, who was the Special Guest of Honour, mounted the parade car and inspected the Guards.
Ceremonially dressed men drawn from, the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigerian Air Force, Nigeria Police, Nigerian Customs Service, Nigerian Prisons Service and Nigerian Immigration Service filed out.
Also in the parade were men of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Nigerian Fire Service, National Youth Service Scheme (NYSC) and the Nigerian Legion.
After the inspection of Guards, Buhari took the presidential salute.
The parade, commanded by Lt.-Col. Muktar Dauda, then commenced the match past, which broke from slow to quick march in synchronised format attracting applause from the spectators.
After the match past, there was a display of equipment by the Army, Navy, Police and Air Force, which was followed by firing of volleys and 21-Gun Salute.
There was inspection of guards by President Buhari, which was followed by march past in slow and quick time.
There was also march past by para-military organisations, agencies and Nigeria Police Force (NPF) mounted troops.
Also on display were military equipment march past on low loaders
Police dogs displaying the trainings they had acquired also thrilled the guests while outriders also displayed their skills.
There was also aerial show by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).
Soon afterwards, the President received three hearty cheers and granted permission to the parade commander to march off the parade.
Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, service chiefs, Chief Justice of the Federation, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, members of the Federal Executive Council and captains of industry graced the event.
There were two former Heads of State- Gen Yakubu Gowon, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar and former Chief of General Staff Gen. Oladipo Diya in attendance.
Notable absentees were Senate President Bukola Saraki and House of Representatives Speaker Yakubu Dogara.
Before departing the venue, President Buhari signed the 58th Independence anniversary register.
At the end of the ceremony Minister of Defence Mansur Dan-Ali, said “You have seen what we displayed today, we are capable of defending this nation.”
SGF Boss Mustapha noted that the last time independence anniversary was celebrated in full was in 2010.
According to him, a child born seven years would not have idea of how independence anniversary is celebrated in Nigeria.
He said that there is relative calm in the north east and checkmating of banditry in the North West and north central as a result of acquisition of more military equipment under the present administration.
He urged Nigerians to be patient and trust the leadership of President Buhari.
Vice President Osinbajo expressed satisfaction with the competence and capabilities of Nigerian military.
“I am extremely excited about the prospects and the future of our great country.
“ I think that just looking at the displays today, and looking at the competence and capability of our military there is such great hope and excitement.
“So, it is a fantastic time for our country and we are all very hopeful; we are very expectant of a greater and much greater future for the nation,” the Vice President said.