NIGERIA, CALABAR – Cross River State has released a programme of events to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, the Ministry of Information announced on Monday in a statement signed by Commissioner Erasmus Ekpang.
Governor Bassey Otu approved a three-day schedule beginning Friday, September 26, with a special Jumat service at the 13 Brigade Mosque, Nigerian Army, Akim Barracks, Calabar, by 2:00 p.m., Ekpang said.
On Sunday, September 28, an inter-denominational Christian thanksgiving will hold at United Evangelical Church (Qua Iboe Church), 23 Mary Slessor Avenue, Calabar, starting at 10:00 a.m., the statement added.
Independence Day activities on Wednesday, October 1, will commence with a 7:00 a.m. presidential broadcast to the nation before the main celebration at U.J. Esuene Stadium, Calabar, from 10:00 a.m., the Commissioner disclosed.
Highlights include a ceremonial parade by the Nigeria Police, review of the Guard of Honour by Governor Otu, march-past by school children and voluntary organisations, and the governor’s Independence address.
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Other features are the cutting of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary cake by the governor, supported by top government officials, and a visit to the first October newborn at the General Hospital, Calabar, by the governor’s wife, Bishop Mrs Eyoawan Bassey Edet Otu.
Ekpang stated that Governor Otu has invited the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Dr. Peter Odey, Speaker and members of the State House of Assembly, the State Chief Judge, National Assembly members, and leaders of political parties to attend.
Professional bodies, captains of industry, labour leaders, market women, youth groups, student unions, civil society organisations and members of the diplomatic corps are also expected at the celebrations, he added.
“Congratulations to all Nigerians on this auspicious occasion of our 65th Independence Anniversary. God bless Nigeria, God bless Cross River State,” the Information Commissioner concluded, urging broad participation in the state’s celebrations.
