Nigeria at 61: To Restore Greatness

Nigeria was made a British protectorate in 1914. When a strong movement of patriotic Nigerians succeeded in casting off the shackles of colonialism in 1960, the country was liberated from the shackles of colonialism. Nigeria became a republic in 1963, only to fall under military rule three years later, following a bloody coup.

For a country that gained independence 61 years ago, it appears to have led the way in corruption, bad governance, insecurity, lack of patriotism, nepotism, hatred, ethno-religious crisis, and acrimony.

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Our country’s motto, “Peace and Unity,” has eroded and may have failed, as former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Prof. Wole Soyinka have noted. The words of our national pledge – “to defend her unity, and uphold her honor and glory” – have become hollow, just as the prayers of the national anthem – “the labor of our heroes past shall never be in vain” – have become a hollow wish because of how the country’s leadership is tipping the country over the precipice. Despite all of the country’s economic resources, it is concerning that the country has yet to join the ranks of developed countries.

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There is no doubt that the country has been blessed with very strong and dedicated leaders who have served the country with zeal and left an indelible legacy from 1960 to the present. Indeed, Nigeria, as Africa’s largest economy, has helped other countries get back on their feet by providing assistance when it was needed.

But, on the other hand, the other side of the Nigerian story is that Malaysia gained independence in 1957, three years before Nigeria, and Malaysia is now where we send our children for study and medical treatment.

The United Arab Emirates gained independence in 1971, 11 years after Nigeria. It has grown to be the most beautiful country on the planet, with the tallest skyscrapers.

In order for Nigeria to progress, to stand on its own, to be free of corruption, hunger, insecurity, and insurgency, we must unite and love one another.

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In the words of Nigeria’s pledge, each of us must strive “to be faithful, loyal, and honest, to serve Nigeria with all (our) strength to defend her unity and uphold her honor and glory.” This is a collective responsibility; it is a task that we must all work together to make Nigeria great again.