Nigeria@65: The Journey, The Struggles, The Possibilities

The journey since independence has been everything but smooth. Military coups, civil war, political instability and economic downturns have defined much of Nigeria’s trajectory. The hopes of 1960 were soon tested by the turbulence of nation-building, exposing the cracks in the delicate balance of ethnicity, religion and regional interests. The question, however, is whether Nigeria has learned from those mistakes or is still repeating them in different shades.

One cannot write about Nigeria’s journey without recalling the 30-month civil war that claimed over a million lives. That tragic chapter of our history remains a scar that still haunts the nation. It was a reminder of the dangers of disunity and the heavy cost of intolerance. Even after the “No victor, no vanquished” declaration in 1970, the country has struggled to truly heal from that wound. Ethnic suspicions and mutual distrust remain alive.

The military era, which spanned almost three decades, stifled democratic growth and entrenched authoritarian tendencies. While some coups were carried out under the guise of correcting corruption, they ended up deepening the malaise. Nigeria was robbed of the opportunity to mature politically in those crucial years. Institutions were weakened, and the culture of impunity became normalised. The aftershocks of those years are still visible in today’s governance.

Yet, Nigeria’s resilience is undeniable. From the rubble of war and dictatorship, the people have consistently shown their ability to survive, to innovate, and to dream. Whether through the creativity of Nollywood, the global dominance of Afrobeats, or the entrepreneurial spirit that drives millions, Nigerians have proven that they can excel even in the most difficult circumstances. This resilience is perhaps the country’s greatest asset.

Democracy returned in 1999 with the Fourth Republic, raising hopes of a new dawn. Twenty-six years on, democracy is still a work in progress. Elections are regularly conducted, but questions of credibility, transparency and fairness remain unresolved. The political class has too often placed personal ambition above national interest. While there have been moments of progress, the reality is that Nigeria’s democracy is still fragile.

Economically, the story is equally complex. Blessed with abundant natural resources, especially crude oil, Nigeria should by now be an economic powerhouse. Instead, the paradox of poverty amidst plenty continues to define the nation. Mismanagement of oil wealth, corruption, and poor planning have left the majority of Nigerians struggling with unemployment, inflation and infrastructural decay. For a country so richly endowed, this remains one of the greatest tragedies of the post-independence era.

The struggles of ordinary Nigerians cannot be ignored. From the farmer battling insecurity in the North, to the trader contending with high exchange rates, to the young graduate roaming the streets in search of work, the daily realities paint a sobering picture. Independence, for many, has not translated into improved living conditions. Instead, the gap between the rich and the poor continues to widen, threatening the social fabric of the nation.

Security has emerged as perhaps the greatest challenge of the present era. Insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and communal clashes have turned large parts of the country into theatres of violence. Thousands have lost their lives, and millions have been displaced. Without security, development becomes almost impossible. At 65, Nigeria must urgently find a lasting solution to these crises if it is to secure the future of its citizens.

But amid these struggles lies immense possibility. Nigeria’s population, now estimated at over 220 million, represents a vast human resource that, if properly harnessed, could transform the country into a global economic giant. The energy, creativity and innovation of the youth are unmatched. However, without the right policies and opportunities, that potential risks being wasted.

Education and healthcare remain critical areas where Nigeria must invest to unlock its possibilities. A country cannot rise above the quality of its human capital. The dilapidated schools, underfunded universities and struggling hospitals must give way to systems that can compete globally. Only then can Nigeria truly position itself for greatness.

The call for restructuring and true federalism remains loud. Many believe that Nigeria’s current structure stifles growth and fuels discontent. Giving more autonomy to states and regions to manage their resources and development could unlock healthy competition and innovation. At 65, Nigeria must have the courage to revisit its federal arrangement if it truly desires progress.

On the global stage, Nigeria continues to command respect as the “Giant of Africa.” Its peacekeeping roles, leadership in regional organisations, and cultural exports give it a unique place. But to translate this potential into actual influence, the country must first put its house in order. A nation battling poverty, insecurity and corruption cannot fully claim leadership abroad.

At 65, it is clear that Nigeria’s journey has been turbulent, its struggles many, but its possibilities endless. The past may have been wasted in many respects, but the future is still within reach. The time has come for leaders and citizens alike to recommit to the ideals of justice, equity, unity and accountability.

Independence anniversaries are not just for celebration but for sober reflection. Nigeria must look back at where it is coming from, confront the realities of where it stands today, and deliberately chart a path to where it wants to be tomorrow. The dream of the founding fathers may be unfulfilled, but it is not dead. At 65, Nigeria still has the chance to rise, if only it has the will.

– Sodiq Lawal, the Press Officer at the Office of the Directorate of Media & Public Affairs, Ooni’s Palace writes from Ile-Ife, Osun State.