As our dear nation and country marks another year of independence, it is a moment for reflection—not only on the triumphs and progress made since 1960 but also on the myriad challenges that have persisted throughout our history.
The journey of our great nation has been fraught with struggles, from colonial legacies to the complexities of post-independence governance which have threatened the very existence of the common man. However, today, we stand at a crossroads. The time has come for all Nigerians to unite, confront our present challenges, and work collectively toward a better today.
Today is not just a day of celebration and reflection but a day for us to act. A day for us to realize that we are not slaves or subjects in our nation. A day for our patriotism and nationalism should reach its peak and our national consciousness should be worn as a sleeve around our necks.
The foundation of our challenges can be traced back to its colonial history. The arbitrary borders drawn by colonial powers, coupled with a lack of understanding of the diverse cultures within these borders, sowed seeds of division that have blossomed into tribalism, ethnic tensions, and conflicts.
The Civil War of the late 1960s is a painful reminder of what happens when tribalism and sectionalism overshadow our shared humanity. The scars of this period linger, affecting our national psyche and complicating efforts for unity. The consequences continue to linger as history has not done justice to it. We still haven’t outgrown that war. But Ozoemena.
In the years following independence, we faced a tumultuous landscape marked by a series of military regimes, political instability, and economic mismanagement that shaped the nation’s trajectory in profound ways.
Each successive military coup not only undermined democratic institutions but also perpetuated a cycle of governance that prioritized power over progress. This environment fostered rampant corruption, which became deeply entrenched in the fabric of governance, eroding public trust and stifling economic growth.
The late 1970s and early 1980s witnessed a brief return to civilian rule under President Shehu Shagari, yet this period was marred by allegations of widespread graft and mismanagement. The oil boom of the 1970s, which initially promised prosperity, quickly turned into a double-edged sword.
While the nation reaped the benefits of high oil prices, the lack of accountability led to unprecedented levels of corruption among government officials. The result was not national development but rather a stark increase in inequality. A small elite amassed wealth while millions of ordinary Nigerians struggled to make ends meet. This oil dependency created a fragile economy that remained vulnerable to global market fluctuations. By the time the oil prices plummeted in the 1980s, the consequences were dire. The country slipped into a severe economic crisis characterized by hyperinflation, unemployment, and widespread poverty.
Many Nigerians found themselves trapped in a relentless cycle of hardship, their hard work overshadowed by systemic failures and corruption. Moreover, the promise of education as a pathway out of poverty has died. As the quality of education has declined, schools have become overcrowded, underfunded, and ill-equipped to provide the skills needed in a rapidly changing world. Even those who managed to complete their education often found themselves facing a bleak job market with limited opportunities. The dream of a better life through hard work and education has become increasingly elusive, replaced by frustration and disillusionment. Our Young graduates, once hopeful for the future, have begun to feel that their degrees were of little value in a society where connections and privilege often trump merit.
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Today, our country faces a multitude of challenges that threaten our collective future. Ethnic and religious divisions continue to plague our society, with many Nigerians still identifying more closely with their tribal affiliations than with their national identity. This fragmentation is exacerbated by political sentiments that often prioritize party loyalty over the common good. The consequences are evident in the proliferation of violence, kidnappings, and communal clashes that have disrupted lives and livelihoods. This has a great influence on our electoral choices and this has only enabled bad governance and voting of leaders without merits rather based on this evil condition.
We must revisit this and look into this urgently. Though we hold ethnic affiliation with great esteem nevertheless, our nation is on the brink of falling apart and if we continue on this path, surely it will break away. While the political class continue to feed off this disease, we must realize that only we can end this contemporary political exploitation by the political class.
Moreover, the economy grapples with high unemployment rates, particularly among the youth, who are often left disillusioned by the lack of opportunities. The education system, once a beacon of hope, is struggling with inadequate funding and resources, leading to a generation that is ill-equipped to compete in a globalized world. Healthcare services remain underfunded and overburdened, making quality healthcare a privilege rather than a right for many Nigerians. This is quite sad and disheartening. How much longer will we continue to live as slaves and second-class citizens in our own Fatherland? Enough is enough. In this context, it is easy for us to feel overwhelmed and despairing. Yet, the power to change our circumstances lies within us.
The theme of this article for Independence Day reflection—”Together We Rise“—is not just a slogan; it is a clarion call for every Nigerian to take responsibility for our collective future. It is essential to recognize that while we cannot change the past, we have the power to shape our present and create our future.
To begin, we must actively foster a culture of inclusivity that transcends ethnic, religious, and political divides. This requires intentional dialogue and understanding among various ethnic groups, families, individuals, and organizations. Our community leaders, religious leaders, and political representatives must come together to promote messages of unity and cooperation. By celebrating our diversity rather than allowing it to divide us, we can cultivate a sense of national identity that binds us together. Bind us together in a way that is impenetrable by the devices of the ruling class. A united people is what our dear nation needs and this we must achieve for us to birth a revolution of change and prosperity.
Furthermore, we must demand accountability from our leaders. Good governance is the bedrock of any thriving society. Citizens should engage actively in the democratic process, ensuring that elected officials are held responsible for their actions. Grassroots movements can play a pivotal role in driving change, and advocating for policies that prioritize the welfare of all citizens. Education and youth empowerment should be prioritized as well. Investing in the education system will equip the next generation with the skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly competitive world. Programs that focus on vocational training and entrepreneurship can provide young people with viable pathways to success, reducing unemployment and fostering economic growth.
While the challenges may seem daunting, there is hope for a better today and a greater tomorrow. Across Nigeria, individuals and organizations are already working tirelessly to make a difference. From grassroots initiatives aimed at community development to innovative startups addressing social issues, there is a growing movement of Nigerians committed to driving positive change.
As we reflect on these challenges, it is crucial to recognize that the issues facing Nigeria today are not merely remnants of the past but ongoing struggles that require immediate attention. The realization that hard work alone may no longer suffice to secure a better future has led to a growing sense of urgency. People are coming together to advocate for systemic change, pushing for policies that promote equity, accountability, and sustainable development. Ultimately, our nation stands at a critical juncture. While the shadows of the past loom large, the potential for renewal and progress is within reach if we collectively confront our challenges head-on. The path forward demands a commitment to integrity in governance, investment in quality education, and the empowerment of all citizens to participate in shaping their own destinies. Only by addressing these issues can we hope to break the cycle of poverty and inequality that has plagued our country for far too long.
As we celebrate our independence, let us remember that our strength lies in our unity. The road ahead may be challenging, but by standing together, we can overcome any obstacle. We must move beyond mere reflections on our history and instead act decisively in the present. It is our collective responsibility to create a Nigeria that reflects the aspirations of all its citizens—one that is just, equitable, and prosperous.
In conclusion, as we raise our flags high and commemorate Nigeria’s independence, let us also embrace the spirit of togetherness. Let us work hand in hand to address our challenges, knowing that the future we seek begins with the actions we take today. Together, we rise, not just for ourselves but for the generations to come. The time for change is now, and it begins with each one of us.
By Oladimeji Animashaun
Oladimeji is a philosopher, public speaker, author and thinker.
