The Tafawa Balewa Square Management Board, in partnership with Lafarge Africa Plc, has unveiled a monumental Independence Obelisk to commemorate Nigeria’s hard-won freedom, celebrate national unity and reinforce their commitment to supporting initiatives that honour the country’s history and heritage.
The Managing Director of the Tafawa Balewa Square Management Board, Lucia Shittu, said the Independence Obelisk holds significant historical value, having been commissioned in 2010 for Nigeria’s 50th Independence Anniversary by the then Vice President, Namadi Sambo.
She said, “Tafawa Balewa Square has been a historic symbol of Nigeria’s independence and democracy, being the location where the Union Jack was lowered and the Nigerian flag was first hoisted. An obelisk adorned with carvings of the pioneer leaders proudly stands on this site. Furthermore, the square hosts the annual memorial service honouring the sacrifices of our armed forces.
“The idea for this initiative was sparked by visitors’ concerns about the absence of the Nigerian flag at this iconic location of the declaration of independence in 1960. This inspired us to create an Independence Garden and Park, aiming to foster tourism and uphold our heritage. Tafawa Balewa Square is both a business and heritage facility, where history is celebrated and preserved. Today marks the beginning of a new chapter in Nigeria’s long and storied history.”
In a similar vein, the Chief Executive Officer of Lafarge Africa Plc, Lolu Alade-Akinyemi, said the Obelisk, beyond its cultural significance as a national monument, is of unique importance to them at Lafarge Africa.
He explained, “As part of our corporate social responsibility initiative, we are adopting it to ensure its preservation and enhancement through adequate maintenance.
“The completion of this project reflects the power of collaboration. With a strong focus on structural integrity, aesthetics, safety and accessibility, every activity ensured the preservation of the original design and texture. We restored the inscriptions, engravings and symbolic carvings on the obelisk and also rehabilitated its immediate surroundings, including walkways, lawns and paving. The installation of a new drainage system and improved accessibility features, including ramps and pedestrian pathways, make for an aesthetic welcome to a whole new world.
“In line with creating a better environment, we used our eco-friendly cement products, which offer a significantly lower carbon footprint (at least 30 per cent less CO₂), thus contributing to the reduction of environmental impact, promoting sustainability and better living. We are very positive about this project and thank all our partners for their efforts in making it possible.”
Meanwhile, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, explained that the initiative aims to honour the nation’s heroes, preserve history and culture and safeguard the symbols and values that define Nigeria.
The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Commissioner of Tourism, Toke Benson-Awoyinka, said the obelisk stands as a living testament to the nation’s journey, reminding citizens of their collective responsibility to uphold the values of unity, peace, progress and nation-building.
