The Federal Government on Friday alerted the general public to heightened security activities preparatory to the events marking the country’s 61st Independence anniversary.

The alert was contained in a statement issued in Abuja by the Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed.

Mohammed, however, urged residents of the Federal Capital Territory and its environs not “to panic and to go about their legitimate activities.”

‘’Residents are enjoined to report suspicious persons and movements to the security agencies through the following numbers: 09-6305396, 08031230631, 08032003557 and 122”, he said.

Meanwhile, activities marking the nation’s 61st Independence will begin on Sunday with a special interdenominational service to be held at the National Christian Centre, Abuja.

This was disclosed at a press conference in Abuja on Friday.

READ ALSO Zoning: PDP govs meet Wednesday over 2023 Presidency

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Culture, Dr Ifeoma Anyanwutaku, who represented the minister, said a special award ceremony would be held on September 30 at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, while the anniversary parade would hold on October 1 at the Eagles Square.

Anyanwutaku said the activities would end with a special Jumat service at the National Mosque in Abuja on the same day.

She described the independence activities as an opportunity to appreciate the efforts of those who fought for independence.

She said, “It is my pleasure to brief you all on the programme of activities lined up to mark the 61st Independence Anniversary. The activities of the 60th independence anniversary have been arranged to dovetail into that of the 61st Independence Anniversary.

“The Independence Day for us is a joyous occasion, it is an occasion for Nigerians to appreciate the efforts of our forebears at gaining independence from the colonial masters and to appreciate the varied contributions of successive administrations at building our nation-state, just as we are witnessing the avowed determination of President Muhammadu Buhari to bequeath to the nation a long-lasting legacy of improved infrastructural facilities and a better economy.”