The Federal Government has kick-started activities lined up for the commemoration of the 2018 Independence Anniversary Celebration with a Photo Exhibition, tagged “The Footprints of Nigeria’s Political Leaders,” which was curated by the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture.

Speaking at the opening of the Exhibition at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, on Tuesday, the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, said the 1st of October every year provides an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s unity, patriotism and commitment to nation-building.

“Today’s event commemorates Nigeria’s 58th Independence Anniversary celebration. There is no doubt that this day is special to every Nigerian as it is a day to reflect on our unity, patriotism and commitment to nation building. Therefore, one cannot help but be excited as this day approaches annually.

“Over the years, the country has gone through trials and tribulations, but the 1st of October is always a day for celebration and thanksgiving, because it occupies a very important place of pride in the political history of our country. It also serves as a poignant reminder and appreciation of the ‘Labours of our heroes past’,” he said.

Alhaji Mohammed said for those who were not old enough to have witnessed Nigeria’s Independence in 1960, they can at least look at the pictures of pre-independent Nigeria and the handing-over ceremony of the colonial masters to the Nigerian leaders to have an idea of how things were and the hopes for a bright future ahead.

He said the photo exhibition also showcases Nigeria’s political history, from pre-colonial era till date, as well as Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.

“I wish to therefore use this opportunity to encourage all participants, especially the youth, to spend time to view and savour this significant and historical exhibition,” he said

While declaring the Exhibition open, Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo said the occasion helps Nigerians to recognise the incredible leadership provided by all the nation’s political leaders, from the colonial days to the present day, who have shown greater wisdom, wits and courage at all times.

Prof. Osinbajo said even though the event reminds Nigerians of the twists and turns in the nation’s historical journey, the present administration has resolved not allow history to determine the country’s future but only as the precursor to a greater Nigeria that is prosperous, united and treats everyone fairly and justly.

He said each phase of the nation’s political history has tested the resolve to remain united and maintain the integrity of the country.

Prof. Osinbajo commended the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture for adopting a very creative and innovative way to celebrate the nation’s Independence Day.

“I must commend the Ministry of Information and Culture for this very innovative way of celebrating our independence and political history.

I think the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture and its leadership, especially the Honourable Minister of Information and Culture, deserve our commendation,” he said.

Dignitaries who attended the Exhibition include the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. Boss Mustapha; Minister of Defence, Brig.-General Mansur Dan-Ali (Rtd); Ambassadors of France, Angola, Kenya, Brazil and Benin Republic, and the Director General of the National Gallery of Art, Mr. Abdullahi Muku, among others.

•Photo shows Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo (second left); Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. Boss Mustapha (extreme left); Minister of Defence, Brig.-General Mansur Dan-Ali (Rtd) (second right) and the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed (extreme right), at the opening of the 2018 Independence Day Anniversary Photo Exhibition in Abuja on Tuesday.

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