Independence Day, otherwise known as 1st October or First of October in Nigeria, is an annual celebration of nationhood in the country. It’s also an official national holiday in Nigeria, which marks the nation's proclamation of independence from British rule on 1st October, 1960.
However, every 1st October annually reminds Nigerians about the dawn of a new beginning, the beginning of an era of deliverance from the clutches of British colonialism.
It’s also a day to remember and honor our past heroes who made the nation‘s freedom from colonial rule possible.
Unique Nature of Nigeria
Nigeria became an independent nation 63 years ago, bringing an end to colonial rule. There is so much to celebrate about this nation. Yes, there is!
Nigeria is blessed with numerous natural resources, rich cultural heritage, greater landmarks consisting of home to over 200 million inhabitants, Nigeria has one of the largest populations of youth, and is the sixth most populous country in the world, it’s a multinational state, as it is inhabited by over 250 ethnic groups, of which the three largest are the Hausa, Igbo and Yoruba.
These ethnic groups speak over 500 different languages, have diverse cultures, and exhibit unique art. A rich array of cuisines, fashion styles and festivals exist across the different tribes.
Economic Downturn, Major Challenge Militating Against Devt in Nigeria
Interestingly, Nigeria will mark its 63rd independence anniversary on this day being Sunday, October 1st, 2023, although this year’s celebration will be a low-key one which will be commemorated on Monday, 2nd October with a public holiday all over the country.
The theme of this year’s anniversary is, “Nigeria @ 63, Renewed Hope for Unity and Prosperity.”
According to reports, George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, said the decision to scale back the festivities was taken in light of the country’s economic challenges. However, he noted that the government is aware of the economic challenges Nigerians are facing as a result of petroleum subsidy removal and is working to provide necessary palliatives.
Not long ago, I heard someone say that, “Our Nation's greatness is perhaps seen and felt mostly on screen,” when we watch our national teams compete at international events, displaying unity of purpose, blurring lines of tribes and religions, and winning laurels for the country.
He also emphasized that, “the sound of Nigeria’s greatness is mainly heard in the rhythm of our poetry and music.”
To me, there is an element of truthfulness in the above assertion. The ones who have made Nigeria great excelled through their striving and self-determination.
Kudos to our Academics, musicians and other talented and industrious Nigerians who have defined our nation’s greatness and brought glory, honor, and pride to Nigeria and Africa through their creativity.
Today, the dream of many citizens is to travel abroad and free themselves from the menace of economic downturn.
Virtually every youth wants to travel out of the country, “To Jappa as it’s profoundly called.” This according to some is to migrate in search of greener pastures to better their lives, because our political leaders have failed us.
Where are the promises of hope, justice, freedom, and equity birthed at independence? Where is the glory and honor that politicians swear always to uphold? The masses have lost hope in our leaders.
A Guide to National Building
Nation-building is hard, but not difficult as we make it in Nigeria. Nation-building is also intentional. It doesn’t happen by accident.
We have all that it takes to make Nigeria a first world nation, and so I’m calling out every Nigerian including our political leaders and other key stakeholders in government. “It is time for us to demonstrate to the World that we are Great People from a Great Nation.”
The change we are striving for could be made, only if we start to work together, irrespective of tribes, race, gender and religion without any bias, favoritism or disregard to human rights.
This too shall pass!
Happy Independence Nigeria!!
