The Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed, has stated that despite the challenging times the country has gone through over the years, its resolve to remain as one indivisible entity has remained unshaken.
Lai Mohammed said this on Monday in Abuja at the opening of the Nigeria@60 yearlong photo exhibition.
The event, with the theme “69 Years of our Togetherness”, was attended by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, and the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Folashade Yemi-Esan.
Mohammed said the theme of the photo exhibition was carefully couched to reflect on the unity of the country in the past 60 years, despite its diverse cultures, traditions, practices, languages and challenges.
“This Photo Exhibition is organised to serve as a poignant reminder of significant events in the annals of this great country and how they have shaped the country, ensured peaceful coexistence, patriotism and determination, culminating in our greatness and development.
“For those who did not witness Nigeria’s Independence in 1960, particularly the students, they can at least look at the photos of pre-independent Nigeria; the independence proper; post-independence era.
“They will also look at leaders who fought for our independence and have an idea of the struggle for freedom from colonialism and a mental picture of how the situation was then.
“These have given hope that whatever challenges we may be facing even at this time, we will surmount them and have a strong, united, peaceful and prosperous country,” he said.
The minister added that the exhibition, which will be opened to the public till Sept. 23, captured six decades of Nigeria’s independence; footprints of Nigeria’s political leaders and 60 years of the labour of past heroes in ensuring the country’s unity and peace.
He said the exhibition also presented Nigeria’s 60-year story in pictorial form, delivering a photographic presentation of Nigeria’s icons.
“In addition, you will view programmes for national integration, such as the National Youth Service Corps programme, photos of intertribal marriages and creation of the Federal Capital Territory.
“You will also view Abuja; popular artists, both old and new; that are well known across the nation and internationally; our collective achievements in the area of sport which, as you are all aware, has acted as a strong unifying force; ancient and modern fashion/attires/hairstyles;
“Nigerian cuisine that we love to eat irrespective of what tribe you belong to; tourist attractions and festivals; as well as Nigerians in Diaspora and their achievements, just to mention a few,” he said.
