Tolani Odumade

<h1>On October 1, 1960, Nigeria gained her independence from the British Empire.</h1>

<p>As expected there were lots of celebrations around the country especially in the then capital, Lagos. From fireworks to dance troupes, masquerades, even a state banquet where dignitaries mingled and danced was held.</p>

<p>The celebrations were also topped by a grand ceremony hosted by the prime minister, <strong>Abubakar Tafawa Balewa</strong>. At the time, <strong>Nnamdi Azikiwe</strong> was governor-general, a role shared with <strong>Sir James Wilson Robertson</strong>.</p>

<p><strong>Queen Elizabeth II</strong>, who was still the country's sovereign, was represented by a member of the British royal family, <strong>Princess Alexandra</strong>.</p>

<p>In celebration of Nigeria's Independence, Pulse has rounded up 15 photos from Nigerians celebrating back in 1960.</p>

The photo shows Nigerians celebrating the first ever Independence day in London (Credit - The Guardian)

The celebrations were also topped by a grand ceremony hosted by the prime minister, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa (Credit - Lost Photos)

Tafawa Balewa delivering his speech (Credit - Lost Photos)

Abubakar Tafawa Balewa giving his Independence day speech 1960 (Credit - africanspotlightcom)

Nigeria's indepedence at 1960 [Credit - Nigerian Archives]

A state banquet where dignitaries mingled and danced was held (Credit - Nigerian Archives)

From L to R; Obafemi Awolowo, Nnamdi Azikwe, Tafawa Balewa on Independence day (Credit - Buzz Nigeria)

Nigeria celebrates her Independence in 1960 [Credit - Lost PHOTOS]

Dignitaries at Nigeria’s Independence (Credit - iStock)

As expected there were lots of celebrations around the country especially in the then capital, Lagos (CrEDit - Nigerian Archives)

Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Sir James Wilson Robertson, Queen Elizabeth II, who was still the country’s sovereign, was represented by a member of the British royal family, Princess Alexandra (Credit - Nigerian Archives)

Abubakar Tafawa Balewa and Sir James Wilson Robertson (Google)

Women were dressed in commemorative wrappers (Google)

From fireworks to dance troupes, masquerades, even a state banquet where dignitaries mingled and danced was held.

Independence Day: 15 photos of Nigerians celebrating Independence day in 1960

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Tolani Odumade

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Independence Day: 15 photos of Nigerians celebrating Independence day in 1960