Balogun/Idumota market (2019)The Centenary Project
Lagos, Nigeria's erstwhile political capital, is the only city with important sites that relive the memories of October 1, 1960
By Mark KauffmanLIFE Photo Collection
A Day to Remember
On 1 October 1960, Nigeria was granted full independence from Great Britain. The country received its Freedom Charter, on 1 October 1960, from Princess Alexandra of Kent, the Queen's representative at the Nigerian independence ceremonies.
Princess Alexandra's Visit To Nigeria (1960-10) by Mark KauffmanLIFE Photo Collection
From 'Race Course' to Tafawa Balewa Square
Nigeria's first Prime Minister Abubakar Tafawa Balewa announced the country's independence in his speech read at what was then known as the 'Race Course', alongside Princess Alexandria and Sir James Robertson on October 1, 1960.
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The 'Race Course' was subsequently renamed Tafawa Balewa Square and has since been given a facelift. It is the most well-known monument of Nigeria's independence.
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Today, the main arena of Tafawa Balewa Square is used to host different public events including Independence Day celebrations on October 1 each year.
(Pan the picture for a 360 degree view)
Top Afri(W) Nigeria Lagos Incl. Apapa And YabaLIFE Photo Collection
From Independence to Tinubu Square
Among the landmark monuments that commemorate Nigeria's independence is the Independence Square which was built in 1960. Afterwards, it was renamed Tinubu Square in honour of a foremost Lagos aristocrat, Madam Efunroye Tinubu, who died in 1887.
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Tinubu Square is an open space landmark located in Broad Street in Lagos. It was reconstructed in 2007 to its current state.
Lagos, Nigeria by Priya RamrakhaLIFE Photo Collection
From Colonial Prison to Freedom Park
During the colonial era, the government passed the prisons ordinance that introduced its own concept of criminal justice to the colony to keep order and protect their interests. For this reason, various prisons were constructed in and around Lagos.
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Freedom Park rose from the remains of Her Majesty's Broad Street prisons which held some of Nigeria's notable political elite.
It was constructed to preserve the history and cultural heritage of Nigerians and mark the country's 50th anniversary independence celebration in October, 2010.
Lagos, Nigeria by Priya RamrakhaLIFE Photo Collection
Since 1960, October 1 has been a day for Nigerians to celebrate. Whether on the streets or in one of those renovated vestiges of the colonial era, it has always been a time to savour independence.
