The 2013 Independence Anniversary celebration was marked in Abuja in a low-key fashion at the Fore-Court of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Part of the event which was featured at the occasion was the change of guard which President Jonathan described as a normal exercise carried out on Monday mornings, but it was shifted to Tuesday because of the independence anniversary.

The event commenced with the arrival of President Goodluck Jonathan, followed by his inspection of the guards before receiving the national salute.

Also featured at the event were prayers by the National President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Pastor Ayo Oritshejafor, and the Chief Imam of the Abuja National Mosque, Sheik Usman Muhammad.

President Jonathan also signed the anniversary register and released pigeons from the cage before cutting the anniversary cake.

Present at the event were Vice President Namadi Sambo, Senate President David Mark, Speaker of the House of Representatives Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, Deputy Speaker Emeka Ihedioha, PDP National Chairman Alh. Bamanga Tukur, PDP Bot Chairman Chief Tony Anenih, and Former Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon.

Others are Primate of the Anglican Communion Arch Bishop Rev. Nicholas Okoh, Former Senate Presidents Adolphus Wabara and Ken Nnamani, Former Head of the Interim Government Chief Ernest Shonekan, Chief Justice of the Federation Aloma Muktah, Former Head of Civil Service, Stephen Orasenye, Former Information Minister Prof. Jerry Gana, Service Chiefs; ministers and top government functionaries and members of the diplomatic corps.