Nigeria has clocked 66 years of independence, a milestone that calls for celebration, reflection, and assessment of the nation's journey. The country gained freedom from British colonial rule on October 1, 1960, and has since experienced different systems of government. At independence, Nigeria adopted a parliamentary system with regional administrations, which encouraged healthy competition among the regions and led to remarkable developmental strides. This period saw significant achievements, including the establishment of first-generation universities such as Ahmadu Bello University, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and the University of Ife.
The First Republic, which lasted from 1960 to 1966, was marked by notable economic stability and improved living standards. Agriculture formed the backbone of the economy, generating substantial revenue from groundnut pyramids, cotton, and hides and skins in the North, cocoa production in the South-west, and palm oil in the South-east. The quality of life for many Nigerians was relatively good, with accessible healthcare, education, and railway transportation systems. These infrastructure provided essential services and supported national development, laying a solid foundation for the country's growth.
However, the military coup of 1966 abruptly ended the First Republic, disrupting Nigeria's developmental trajectory and altering its political path. Many believe that had democracy not been truncated, Nigeria would have advanced rapidly, standing shoulder to shoulder with countries like India. Subsequent military regimes, though credited with building roads, bridges, institutions, and housing estates, were often criticized for corruption, human rights abuses, and lack of accountability. The era also witnessed suppression of dissent and limited political freedoms.
The return to democratic rule in 1999 ushered in renewed hope and opportunities for national growth. Yet, more than two decades after, Nigeria is still grappling with the challenge of achieving sustained and inclusive development. There is wide insecurity pervading the country, with Boko Haram terrorists attacking soft targets and bandits on rampage in various states. The call for state policing has been loud, resulting in the passing of the state police bill, which is being debated across state assemblies.
The removal of petroleum subsidy by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has brought untold hardship to Nigerians. While the reason for subsidy removal was to curb massive corruption in the subsidy regime, intervention policies rolled out by the Tinubu government to cushion the effects of high pump price have not achieved the desired results. Nigerians are yet to embrace the Compress Natural Gas (CNG) initiative, intended to make energy affordable. However, this initiative has not been achieved due to poor sensitization and inadequate conversion centers.
Despite progress recorded in some sectors, the country has yet to attain the level of transformation expected by citizens. At 66, there is deepening poverty in the country, with millions of Nigerians living below the one-dollar benchmark. Local governments' funds have been hijacked by governors, despite a Supreme Court ruling granting the third tier of government the right to receive direct allocation from the federation account. President Tinubu needs to enforce the ruling for more development at the grassroots.
As Nigeria celebrates 66 years of independence, it is time to stop lamentations and blame games. This moment calls not just for celebration, but for deep reflection. The promise of nationhood remains alive, but its fulfillment depends on leadership, accountability, and the collective resolve of its people. The nation looks to its leaders to drive transformation and address the country's challenges, ensuring a brighter future for its citizens.
Key points
- Nigeria has experienced different systems of government since gaining independence in 1960.
- The country is still grappling with the challenge of achieving sustained and inclusive development.
- The removal of petroleum subsidy has brought hardship to Nigerians, and the CNG initiative has not achieved desired results.
