By Olasunkanmi Akoni & Monsur Olowoopejo

LAGOS—Eight days to the 50th anniversary of Nigeria’s independence, some parts of Lagos metropolis are wearing a new look as roads and buildings are being painted in white and green national colours.

Similarly, Lagos State Government in collaboration with the private sector, yesterday kicked-started week long activities to commemorate the event which will include series of historical stage plays to be presented to members of the public.

Vanguard observed that as part of preparations for the D-day, many road signs and markings, mostly on Federal roads, hitherto painted in black and white have been painted in green and white.

The notable areas are: Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway, Ikeja, Oshodi Road, Lagos Island, around Race Course, and Tafawa Balewa Square, where the first independence ceremony was held in 1960.

Nigerian flags are also being hung on various objects in strategic areas while some motorists have the national flag either displayed on their vehicles or placed inside it.

Prison to park

As part of the celebrations, it was disclosed that Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State will commission a site that used to be a prison yard for political agitators during independence struggle, now transformed into a relaxation spot called Freedom Park, located in Broad Street, Lagos Island.

Chairman of the Organising Committee on the Nigeria at 50th, Lagos State chapter, Princess Aderenle Adeniran-Ogunsanya, the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, and the state Commissioner for Home Affairs and Culture, Alhaji Lanre Balogun, made the disclosure during a media conference on activities lined up for the golden jubilee celebration which will run from September 23 to October 16.