64th independence anniversary: Nigerians’ opinions divided over celebration, set agenda for government

By Samuel Akpan & Daniel Okejeme

Nigerians have expressed mixed reactions to the country’s 64-year nationhood, its achievements, and the challenges it faces amid the current economic hardships.

While some believe that the country has made progress in the last 64 years and that the birth date is worth celebrating, others believe that the country is not close to where it ought to be, given its human and material resources.

Mrs. Martha Ejimkeonye, who spoke to our correspondent, expressed her discontent over the economic situation, describing it as dismal.

“This is, without a doubt, the most dismal independence day celebration I have ever experienced. The rising prices of basic necessities have drained my pockets and dashed my hopes.

“There’s no time to celebrate independence because I’m struggling to put food on the table for my children,” he told Persecondnews.

“We need relief, not just celebrations. We need policies that lift the burden off our shoulders and ameliorate our condition.

The escalating cost of living and price of petrol have tripled my expenses.

“The transportation fares alone are staggering—if I tell you the amount I spend weekly to come here and sell my wares, you will be shocked.

However, Mrs. Hadiza Bullus, a civil servant who spoke on a note of optimism in spite of the challenges, commented: “Despite things not being perfect, we have quite a lot to be grateful for.

“First, we are not at war as a nation despite the various happenings, and for me, that is a blessing.”

She acknowledged the government’s spirited effort and policies to get things back on track, expressing the hope that it will eventually find its footing.

Hadiza urged Nigerians to unite and support the government’s efforts, recognizing that Nigeria is our sole homeland deserving of protection.

She regretted that rumours of a protest had dashed her initial enthusiasm to attend the independence day celebration. “We must rally together to safeguard our nation’s progress,” she said.

“We must put aside our differences and work towards a common goal—a better Nigeria for all. Supporting government initiatives and promoting peace can help us overcome challenges and build a brighter future.

“We are the stakeholders of this great nation,” she said, adding, “let’s join hands to ensure Nigeria’s prosperity for ourselves, our children, and generations to come.”

Mrs. Ochanya Gladys, another civil servant, expressed her frustration, saying cancelling the Independence Day celebration wouldn’t be a bad idea, considering the “dissatisfaction among workers.’’

According to her, the government’s failure at all levels to pay the new minimum wage agreed upon with the organized labour has left many disenchanted.

“Workers are the backbone of this nation, and it’s demotivating to see our efforts unvalued and unacknowledged,” she emphasized.

“The widening gap between the haves and have-nots fuels resentment.’’

Businessman Mr. Kunle Omoboriowo states: “We celebrate 64 years of freedom on paper, but in reality, economic servitude shackles us.” Nigeria’s independence rings hollow when we are beholden to international lenders.’’

“Will future generations be saddled with the weight of our current debts? Or will we find a way to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and generate revenue to pay off this loan without mortgaging our country’s future?

“The real celebration will come when Nigeria’s potential is truly unleashed.”

Persecondnews reports that with the present administration’s effort in the process of retooling and rebuilding the country’s economy, President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians to be hard-working and patient with his economic policies.

Tinubu said this when the Forum of Former Presiding Officers of the National Assembly, led by former Senate President Ken Nnamani, paid him a visit in Abuja.

“People say we are hungry. Yes, I understand that. We don’t want to keep the people hungry and angry, but we say be patient—we must work hard.

“There is no free beer parlour anymore. We will retool and rebuild Nigeria’s economy,” said President Tinubu.

Also, Senate President Godswill Akpabio assured Nigerians that despite the increasingly bumpy times, Nigeria would definitely triumph.

Echoing the president’s plea, he urged the citizenry to be patient and hopeful, saying Nigeria’s brightest days are ahead.

On Sunday, September 29, he delivered a speech at an interdenominational church service commemorating Nigeria’s 64th independence anniversary at the National Christian Centre in Abuja.