Unarguably Nigeria as an entity is more than a century old and it’s legacy premiers, ethnics, empires, kingdoms etc can all be traced back to as far old as the African continent. However, the point f contention and celebration for every Nigeria and her citizens on every first October is independent existence. Hence, one could be tempted to ask at time like this that “Where are we as a nation”?
Nigeria gained her independence from colonial rule by the British on the first October 1960 and by implication is at 56 in this year 2016. Between the time of Independence and now, Nigeria has faced many trials and challenges in the form of civil war, mass genocide, military killings, economic hardships, political instabilities and any controversy that an ethno-religious havens can face. But, with the common resolve of country men and women as well as God’s intervention keep glowing even in the face of the worst predicaments imaginable by heart.
Critical analysis of the original Biafra quest, Maitasini Crisis, June 12 annulment, Niger Delta militancy, Boko Haram insurgence and other insecurity development that has faced the nation overtime, one cannot but say-“Nigeria Is A One Indivisible Entity Joined By Divine Arrangement”. Of course, it does no good to dwell on recollection of the past but the significance of the present to the future is too much to be over emphasized. Thus, our government at all level must rise to the challenges of the present with approach(es) and strategy that will bear delectable fruits for even generation yet unborn.
As it stands today, the Nigerian economy is bleeding and the welfare of the average earner is only guaranteed by the promise of God that he shall provide for all his servants in the proper and exact measure of their needs. The sane minds will admit to the fact that there is serious hardship in the land, the insane minds will deny it, the blind minds will not make any position, the clueless minds will blame past governments, the fools will be defending government, the wise will explain the predicaments and the progressive minds will be working toward making the situation normal.
In the words of Albert Einstein, he said-“Look deep, deep into nature and then you will understand everything better”. So, for us to move forward as a nation, we need to understand where we truly are. Let our reasonings be beyond sentiments but rationally, only that way we can be guaranteed of a great and better Nigeria. It is important to note here that Nigeria has not thrived upon the tales and dreams of those who talked about it, neither did it progress on the wishes and assumptions of those who dream big dreams but by the efforts and individual contribution of those who are committed toward making it great.
Therefore, as it marks yet another Independence celebration, let us all reflect on the journey line of great nations and turn our diversities to advancement in terms of human and social overhaul. Moreover, we are Nigerians before tribe, religion, gender, qualifications and privileges. History only remember people by the legacies they leave behind and the good thing about history is the fact that it doesn’t just come once in a day, as the day and night counts; that’s how history document and we never can tell which endeavor of ours shall make post generational impacts. Herbert Macaulay, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Ahmadu Bello, Obafemi Awolowo and all the names we mention as heroes and heroines weren’t just call because they belong to the first generation but for the imprints their endeavors have made in the history of our beloved Nation.
Arise O’ Compatriots,
Nigeria Call Obey,
To Serve Our Fathers Land…
Happy Independence Celebration,
God Bless Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Comr A. M. Nasir
naadejohs@gmail.com
twitter handle:@Naadejohs
