President Bola Tinubu led the 64th Independence Day celebration at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa in Abuja on Tuesday. The ceremony, themed “Reflecting on the Past; Inspiring the Future,” commenced with Tinubu arriving at the forecourt around 10:10 a.m. as the special guest of honor.
Upon his arrival, the President received a national salute and proceeded to inspect the Guard of Honour, which was led by Lt. Col. Moshood Yusuf and comprised members of the Nigerian Armed Forces.
This marks Tinubu’s second Independence Day celebration as President. Notably, the event was hosted within the Villa rather than at the traditional Eagle Square venue. This decision was communicated in October 2023 by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, who cited the nation’s challenging economic situation as the reason for the low-key observance.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, Chief Justice of Nigeria Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, SGF Akume, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Service Chiefs, the Inspector General of Police, cabinet members, former presidents and vice presidents, heads of paramilitary organizations, and members of the diplomatic corps.