It is my pleasure to be here on this auspicious occasion of the opening of the Historical Exhibition, one of the events slated for the celebration of Nigeria’s 60th Independence Anniversary.
2. The celebration is already in full swing. Following the launch of the theme and logo by Mr. President, we have held a public lecture, a Special Jumat Service, an Inter-denominational Church Service and the launch, today, of the National Ethics and Integrity Policy as well as Integrity Award by Mr. President, to commemorate the 20th anniversary of ICPC.
3. The Historical Exhibition, which we are here to declare open, is next, followed by a Presidential Broadcast as well as Guard of Honour/Anniversary Parade on Thursday, Oct. 1st, 2020. Since the Diamond Jubilee will be a year-long celebration, we will be hosting staggered events until 30 Sept. 2021. Of course, the anniversary celebration is a low-key affair, due to the Covid-19 pandemic which has imposed some safety protocols on nations around the world.
4. Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, Exhibitions are a mirror of the society. They depict our way of life, realities, dreams and vision for the future. They encapsulate our creative spirit and embody our innate abilities to re-invent ourselves, especially because of this pandemic.
5. This Historial Exhibition highlights the anniversary’s theme, which is ‘Together’. As you are aware, art functions as a medium of interpreting society, what is going on around us, our characteristics, our way of life etc. For the Artist, the fad and the superficialities constitute a constant appeal.
6. Our togetherness is inherited from the major cultural streams and is reflected in the diversity of styles. I am glad to note that our artists are not mere imitators. Rather, they work from intimate understanding, knowledge and experience of local life, which they are part of. Only in this way can Arts be meaningful and fulfil a need to identify and express ourselves as Nigerians, thus enhancing our attitudes which will help to strengthen our unity.
7. Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, I welcome you to this exhibition, celebrating the 60th anniversary of our country’s independence. I hope you will enjoy the exhibition, which reflects all the great attributes of our people, especially their diversity.
8. It is now my pleasure to declare the exhibition open. I thank you for your kind attention
