FG issues security alert ahead of Independence Day anniversary

The federal government says there will be heightened security activities in the days leading to the country’s 61st Independence Day anniversary.

A statement was released to this effect by Lai Mohammed, the minister of information and culture, on Friday.

The minister asked residents of the federal capital territory (FCT) and its environs not to panic.

”Residents are enjoined to report suspicious persons and movements to the security agencies through the following numbers: 09-6305396, 08031230631, 08032003557 and 122,” he said.

Meanwhile, the president has approved activities for the independence anniversary ceremony.

The minister said the anniversary is for Nigerians to appreciate the sacrifice made by the founding leaders at gaining independence and the efforts of past administrations toward building the country.

He said the Independence Day activities include an interdenominational church service on Sunday at the National Christian Centre and an award ceremony on Thursday at the banquet hall of the presidential villa.

The minister said there would be an anniversary parade on October 1 at the Eagle Square and Juma’at service on the same day at the National Mosque.

“This press conference, therefore, will signpost the commencement of activities for the 2021 celebration,’’ Mohammed said.

“As you are aware, we are just about rounding off activities marking the 60th year-long Diamond Jubilee Independence Anniversary celebration, which will terminate on September 30.

“In other words, the activities of the 60th independence anniversary have been arranged to dovetail into that of the 61st independence anniversary.”