Jonathan Unveils 50th Anniversary Clock

ABUJA, August 11, (THEWILL) - President Goodluck Jonathan today officially unveiled the countdown clock as part of activities towards the 50th Independence Anniversary.

Jonathan who spoke at a brief ceremony at the Villa said the event was symbolic as it begins a 50-day countdown to the golden jubilee celebration.

He said the ceremony was the beginning of activities that will lead to what happened on the Ist October 1960 when the Union Jack was lowered and the green-white-green flags adorned the streets of Nigeria to mark Nigeria's Independence.

''In exactly 50 days from today, we will re-enact that similar event across the length and breath of our nation''. Jonathan stated, according to a statement from the office of the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity.

He observed that despite the daunting challenges facing the nation, Nigeria had a glorious past worthy of celebration.

''Our golden jubilee should arouse in us all renewed hope and enduring faith in Nigeria, we must rededicate ourselves to those patriotic ideals that bring out the creative and productive potentials in us all'', he remarked.

He directed that the countdown clock be placed at strategic positions across the country as constant reminders towards the golden jubilee Independence Anniversary.

The occasion was attended by the Vice-President, Arc. Mohammed Namadi Sambo, Secretary to the Govrnment of the Federation, Alhaji Ahmed Yayale, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mr. Steve Oransanye, Ministers, the Director-General of Nigeria at 50 celebration, Dr. Babakura Kaigama and top government funtionaries.