Today’s Google celebrates Nigeria’s Independence Day! On this day in 1960, the most populous country in Africa achieved independence from Great Britain.
Celebrations start on the morning of Independence Day, when the President of Nigeria addresses the general public with a nationally televised speech. Nigerians then proudly sing the national anthem while raising the green and white flag — like the one featured in today’s Doodle. Later on, the Nigerian Armed Forces march to the rhythm of thumping drums and perform military maneuvers in the nation’s capital, Abuja.
Many Nigerians spend the rest of the day enjoying traditional meals with friends and family. It wouldn’t be a proper celebration without plantains and chicken served with jollof rice, a treasured Nigerian meal bursting with West African spices. Beaches are also a popular destination for family picnics, and later transform into outdoor clubs where the beat of fuji music continues into the night.
Happy Independence Day, Nigeria!