The parade, which was witnessed by President Muhammadu Buhari and other dignitaries present at Eagle Square, was also broadcast live on national television.
It was coloured with military and para-military marches. Many cheered throughout the performance, particularly when some military personnel blindfolded, dismantled firearms, and reassembled them with great showmanship.
The event’s acrobatic shows, punctuated with both contemporary and cultural dance displays, delighted the audience too.
Below are photos from the parade as taken by Channels TV’s Sodiq Adelakun:
Soldiers participate in the parade to mark Nigeria’s 61st Independence anniversary celebration.
President Muhammadu Buhari inspects the guard of honour at the Eagle Square.
L-R: Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila; Senate President, Dr Ahmad Lawan; and the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo.
Nigeria Immigration Service officials participating in the parade
President Buhari inspects the guard of honour
L-R: Inspector-General of Police, Usman Baba; Chief Of Air Staff, Air Marshal Oladayo Amao; Chief Of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo; Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Farouk Yahaya; and Chief Of Defence Staff, General Lucky Irabor
A message of peace from the Institute For Peace And Conflict Resolution (IPCR) is displayed at the event
Members of a cultural troupe in a display during the ceremony to mark Nigeria’s 61st Independence Anniversary.
