Low Turnout Mars Nigeria Independence Anniversary, Jonathan Marks Nigeria At 52 Without First Lady

Unlike the Nigeria at 50 Independence celebration where the entire nation reverberated and stood still for the epoch-making ceremony, this year’s celebration looks like a typical setting of a naming ceremony.




Adorned in military apparel, the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan arrived the venue accompanied by the Vice president Namadi Sambo, senate president, David Mark and other dignitaries for the Change of Guards Parade by the Nigeria Army.

Shortly after his arrival, the national anthem was taken followed by the opening prayers by the CAN president, Ayo Oritsejafor, and the Chief Iman of Abuja.

The absence of the first lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, was noticeable in the face of his Excellency while watching the parade staged by the Army within his official residence at the presidential villa in Abuja, the Federal Capital.