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  • The thrill of independence

    The thrill of independence

    • By Abdu Rafiu

    There is something that is thrilling about independence which triggers a feeling of upliftment. It is an upswelling of a deep sense of freedom, even though it is not every time that independence and freedom are one and the same. One can see that independence is not always connected with freedom, deep within us. One is a means to an end, for example, and not the end by itself. I will come to it presently. The thrill helps one to see, share and swing in the enrapturing  experience of Alhaji Babatunde Jose, now of blessed memory, on the night of Nigeria’s Independence Day. He wrote:

    “As the clock struck mid-night, they took their positions on the dais and watched the lowering of the Union Jack (British Flag) and the hoisting of the Nigerian Flag…and so ended 100 years of British rule…100 years of colonial bondage…And I am happy. And I am sobbing…”

    That was the classic impressionistic reporting by Alhaji Jose, the exceptionally gifted editor and newspaper administrator extra-ordinary, the one and only managing director/chairman of the Daily Times. He filed his report from the Race Course, years later renamed Tafawa Balewa Square. The report was appropriately bylined Babatunde Jose, Editor, Daily Times Newspaper on 01 October, 1960. For those of us privileged to have passed through his hands, his mentorship and his exemplariness on how to be a leader, in our magic kingdom and empire, the largest newspaper organization in Africa South of the Sahara are simply exceptional. On momentous occasions, joyful as Independence Day, devastatingly sad as the bloody Dimka coup, Alhaji Jose would mount the typewriter himself in the Newsroom. The report he filed and his thoughts on the lowering of the Union Jack cannot but evoke sweet nostalgic memories. For the campaigners and freedom fighters, for the generality of Nigerians it was dream come true. School children marched through the streets to gather on fields designated for the great Day, waving the Green-White-Green National Flag to blow away the Empire Day and to welcome the dawn of Independence and freedom in their land.

    The Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, said in his triumphal tone: “Today is Independence Day. The First of October 1960 is a date to which for two years Nigeria has been eagerly looking forward. At last, our great day has arrived, and Nigeria is now indeed an independent sovereign nation. We are grateful to the British officers whom we have known, first as masters, and then as leaders, and finally as partners, but always as friends.” That was 65 years ago.

    What were the dreams, what was the vision of the nation’s founding fathers and their lieutenants in the field of battle? Have the promises held aloft been realised over the years? Why are we still in the doldrums? Newspaper editorials and political pundits did justice to this in the run-off to last Wednesday, the anniversary day, the day of the re-enactment of the thrills of 01 October, 1960. Political leaders of different hues did broadcast or issued statements, the kernel of which, as accustomed, hammered on the Eldorado in the offing and the plea for peace and cooperation. In spite of the failings, the anniversary every year rekindles sweet memories, especially seeing school children in a march past, and soldiers and policemen doing likewise and, in addition, saluting the National Flag in state capitals.

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    Overtime, President Bola Tinubu has gained confidence and pose, away from tentative steps of his early days in office. As he spoke on Wednesday he exuded warmth and confidence, evidently because he has a list of concrete achievements of his Administration this time to brandish before our gaze, but first what the country has achieved in general. The speech was beautifully put together, uncluttered with tired clichés of the past. It was inspirational, too. Hear him:

    “For decades, the promise of our Independence has been tested by profound social, economic, and political challenges, and we have survived. While we may not have achieved all the lofty dreams of our forebears we have not strayed too far from them. In 65 years since our independence, we have made tremendous progress in economic growth, social cohesion, and physical development. Our economy has experienced significant growth since 1960.

    “Although it is much easier for those whose vocation is to focus solely on what ought to be, we must recognize and celebrate our significant progress. Nigerians today have access to better education and health care than in 1960.  At Independence, Nigeria had 120 secondary schools with a student population of about 130, 000. Available data indicate that, as of year 2024, there were more than 23,000 secondary schools in our country. At Independence, we had only the University of Ibadan and Yaba college of Technology as the two tertiary institutions in Nigeria. By the end of last year, there were 274 universities, 183 Polytechnics, and 236 Colleges of Education in Nigeria, comprising Federal, State and private institutions. We have experienced a significant surge in growth across every sector of our national life since Independence—in healthcare, infrastructure, financial services, manufacturing, telecommunications, information technology, aviation and defence, among others.

    “Our country has experienced both the good and the bad times in its 65 years of nationhood, as is normal for every nation and its people.” Tinubu spoke of the civil war and political storms and efforts to build a “more perfect union in which every Nigerian can find better accommodation and find purpose and fulfillment.”

    As for his Administration, President Tinubu said although he inherited what he called near-collapsed economy flowing from decades of fiscal policy distortions and misalignment; he has rolled up his sleeves to redirect the economy by embarking  on fundamental reforms through channeling money “to fund education, healthcare, national security, agriculture, and critical economic infrastructure, such as roads, power, broadband, and social investment programmes…As a result of the tough decisions we made, the Federal and State governments, including Local Governments, now have more resources to take care of the people at the lower level of the ladder, to address our development challenges.”

    Pledging to work and justify the confidence reposed in him, the President said: “I am pleased to report that we have finally turned the corner. The worst is over, I say. Yesterday’s pains are giving way to relief. To further soothe nerves, he reeled out what his Administration has achieved in specific terms, what he attributed to the reforms as follows: Gross Domestic Product grew by 4.23 per cent, outpacing the 3.4 per cent the International Monetary Fund (IMF) projected; inflation dropped to 20.12 per cent and the administration is working to bring food cost down. There is record-breaking rise in non-oil revenue to over N20trillion as of August; last month alone, the government raised N3.65trillion, 411per cent higher than what was raised in May. Debt service-to-revenue ratio has gone down markedly from 97 per cent to 50 per cent. For him, according to his score-card, things are looking up. “We have paid down the infamous ‘Ways and means’ advances that threatened our economic stability and triggered inflation,” he said. The external reserves rose to $42.03 billion last month, the highest, he said, since 2019. Nigeria trade export rose by 44.3 per cent in the second quarter of the year N7.46 trillion ($4.74 billion). Goods manufactured in Nigeria and exported jumped by 173 per cent with non-oil component accounting for 48 per cent. This time Tinubu came on broadcast stage loaded and waving a glowing record of achievements. The hope glitters that these will manifest in tangible effect at the micro level. Indeed, he spoke proudly of Nigeria being an exporter of Aviation Fuel, credit one must state to Dangote Refinery.

    However, be that as it may, an anniversary cannot detract from reflection and thanksgiving as parts of its essence. As it is in the lives of all human beings, that we are travellers, a country is on a journey also. An anniversary provides the opportunity for reflection, opportunity to look back: How has this journey fared. That is what Tinubu just did on Wednesday. Then, a resolution ensues for renewed striving to attain the goal. For human beings, that goal is fulfilling the purpose of life. For a nation, it is to facilitate the attainment of that goal, through guaranteeing the right environment for the unfolding of talents and abilities, the environment for ennoblement, love, honour and dignity, otherwise all the exertions will come to nothingness. As it is said: “What does it profit a man to gain the whole world, but lose his soul!” We are also told: “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by the words that proceedeth from Word of the Lord.”

    Part of the contemplation would involve asking if independence and freedom are vehicles for the attainment of that goal. Contemplation of the Independence and Freedom thus becomes germane. Independence is not being dependent, whether as a nation, community or a human being. It is a state in which a nation is not dictated to. It is in a position, even if influenced by experiences and lessons learnt from other lands, to take its own decisions thought to be in its interest, and own that decision. It is in a position to take its destiny in its own hands. The nation can plan its life—political or economic without external interference. It can plan to fashion out its own means of protection and secure its borders.

    An independent nation would be free to make its own laws and regulations. Among such laws would be those that guarantee freedom of thought, of speech, freedom of assembly, of movement, freedom to own property and the laws must guarantee fundamental human rights. There can be expansion of such rights by going into a collaborative working or entering into an alliance with other countries and signing treaties with them. To protect their citizens and see to their wellbeing, nations post ambassadors to other lands. So important, therefore, is independence that it enjoins a nation to own allegiance to no other land but to its citizens.

    The independence, however, is a means to an end; it is not an end in itself. That end is free will. The laws which are a feature of independence only serve as guarantees for free will which constitutes an inalienable and inherent essence and property of a human being, the human spirit which is the real man. Any wonder, therefore, that a government can constrain the exercise of freedom only for a while. In the end the spirit will triumph. Over millennia, nations have fought wars; communities have gone into battle in defence of freedom. But then there are restraints to freedom. For there not to be restraints, there would be chaos and confusion. It is not infrequent that we hear it said: “Your freedom ends where mine begins.” We cannot use our freedom to harm others. The immovable limit to freedom is encapsulated in the statement by the Lord when He said: “Do unto others as you would want done unto you.” He also admonished us mankind: “Love thy neighbour as thyself.”

    As it is human beings, so is it with nations. A country cannot in exercise of its freedom invade another country. It may wish to from the point of view of independence but it is forbidden by international sanctions. National laws are consequences of debates among legislators as I discussed last week. The legislators may have come under the external influences such as from constituents, friends, experiences or practices from other nations. The external impressions may have arisen from learning, from reading journals, reading of newspapers, and magazines, or watching television, videos or listening to radio. In these days of social media, internet susceptibility to external impressions is real. All these assail the brains. Thus, the brains receive these for internalization by individuals. The internalization requires that the impressions are passed down for sorting, weighing and examining by the spirit which has as its handmaiden the free will in the modern world of imbalance between the frontal brain, the cerebrum and the small brain, the cerebellum also known as the hind brain, however, the spirit is unable to sift, sort, weigh and examine. And so the laws are not infused with the loftiness that is its inherent quality. Thus what passes as law today is largely the product of the frontal brain. And the laws are passed by show of hands: The ‘yeas’ have it! 

    The spirit is a non-material consistency, totally alien to material in which it sojourns. It can make contact with the outside world only through its body which is material. The brain, on the other hand, is wholly material even if it is more ethereal than any other part of the body. The order is for the spirit to be assisted by the frontal brain which is of material consistency with materials it has gathered using its own instrument, the intellect. The spirit is to take the decision while the intellect carries them out. The spirit has its own freedom of choice called the free will. The more the frontal brain is consulted the more weakened the free will gets, and the situation gets to the point the faculty of free will is totally forgotten. And without the input of the spirit all manner of aberrations ensue. Because the spirit is not called upon to make decisions it is unable to unfold its abilities. And so is it that the law becomes fulfilled; what we use develops and what we don’t use atrophies. In the unfolding of the abilities of the spirit we develop the essence of true love, compassion, helpfulness, patience, understanding, gracefulness, refinement, polish, beauty and love of beauty, humility, kindness and nobility of spirit. And there you are:  A true human being. He stands there radiant, confident, unhampered, healthy and full of joy in worshipful adoration of the Most High, the Almighty. All these cannot happen without the spirit, in the exercise of free will, living and swinging in the Laws of Nature, the Divine Laws. Without the familiarization of oneself with them and obeying them, no man is free, for without inner freedom a man is a slave even if he were a king or an  emperor. He is dependent! There can be no true independence without freedom as its foundation, and freedom not based on the exercise of free will soon leads to unfreedom, indeed, enslavement. The ultimate freedom of man, therefore, lies in the inner freedom!

    • This article was culled from www.radiatingthetruth.com
    • Abdu Rafiu is a renowned editor, newspaper manager and respected elder of journalism.
  • Independence Blues: Nigeria at 65: A broken promise?

    Independence Blues: Nigeria at 65: A broken promise?

    Sixty-five years ago, on October 1, 1960, the green-white-green flag was hoisted in Lagos amidst jubilation and boundless hope. With pride Nigeria stood at the threshold of greatness, a giant awakening from its colonial bonds.  The air was thick with promise—promises of prosperity, unity, and continental leadership. Recently, as we marked another independence anniversary, those promises still ring hollow, echoing through the years a collective disappointment, like a dirge for dreams deferred.

    The indices tell a story our patriotic songs and anthems cannot drown out. A nation blessed with abundant crude oil reserves remains trapped in fuel queues. A country with some of Africa’s most fertile lands cannot feed its people. A populace that produces some of the world’s brightest minds watches helplessly as millions of its youth flee in waves of desperation, seeking dignity in foreign lands. This is not the Nigeria our founding fathers envisioned. This is not the beacon of black excellence that Kwame Nkrumah, Jomo Kenyatta, Nelson Mandela and millions across the African diaspora looked toward with anticipation.

    The most painful indictment of post-independence Nigeria lies squarely at the feet of our political elite and leadership class—a brotherhood that has consistently chosen self-enrichment over nation-building. From military dictators to civilian kleptocrats, Nigeria’s leadership has exhibited a breathtaking capacity for plunder and an equally stunning deficit of vision.

    Our leaders inherited institutions, infrastructure, and an economy that, while nascent, held promise. What have they bequeathed to succeeding generations? An educational system in ruins, where universities are shuttered for months due to strikes while politicians’ children study abroad. A healthcare sector so decrepit that those who govern it flee to foreign hospitals at the first sign of illness. An infrastructure deficit so profound that businesses generate their own electricity, build their own roads, and provide their own security—essentially paying taxes for services never rendered.

    The political elite have perfected the art of primitive accumulation. They loot treasuries with impunity, stash billions in foreign accounts, and when caught, receive mere slaps on the wrist. They weaponize ethnicity and religion to divide the populace, ensuring that Nigerians fight each other rather than demand accountability from those who govern. They have transformed public service into private enterprise, viewing political office not as a call to duty but as an opportunity for wealth extraction.

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    Perhaps most tragically, this leadership class has failed in the fundamental task of nation-building. Sixty-five years after independence, Nigeria remains a mere geographical expression—a collection of ethnic nations held together by the fragile threads of mutual suspicion and the strong-arm of federal might. We have built no shared national identity, no unifying ethos beyond, corruption,  the naira and the Super Eagles. Our diversity, which should have been our strength, has been cynically exploited by leaders who benefit from our divisions.

    Yet, in this tale of national tragedy, the Nigerian citizen is also complicit, yes! You and I cannot claim innocence. We are not merely victims of bad leadership; we are, in many ways, its enablers. We have cultivated a political culture that rewards mediocrity and celebrates brigandage. We applaud politicians who throw rice and cash at us during campaigns, then act surprised when they steal billions once in office.

    The average Nigerian condemns corruption loudly—until their kinsman is the one being investigated. We demand merit and competence—except when it disadvantages our ethnic group or religious community. We cry out against injustice—unless we are the beneficiaries of that injustice. This moral schizophrenia has created a society where wrong is right if it favors “our own,” and right is irrelevant if it doesn’t serve our immediate interests.

    Our tolerance for dysfunction has become legendary. We have normalized the abnormal. We celebrate citizens who provide basic amenities in their communities—water, roads, electricity—things that governments should provide as a matter of course. We have become so accustomed to failure that we praise minimal competence as extraordinary achievement. We have set the bar so low that it now lies buried underground.

    Furthermore, too many Nigerians have become complicit in the system of exploitation. From the civil servant who demands bribes to process legitimate documents, to the police officer who extorts motorists at checkpoints, to the lecturer who demands gratification for grades—corruption has metastasized from the political class into the social fabric. We have created a society where cutting corners is celebrated as smartness, and integrity is dismissed as foolishness.

    But Nigeria need not remain trapped in this cycle of mediocrity and failure. The dreams of our founding fathers—Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, Ahmadu Bello, and others—were not foolish fantasies, nor were they tales of Sugar Candy land. They were achievable visions grounded in Nigeria’s enormous potential. What we lack is not resources or capability, but the political will and moral courage to build the nation we deserve.

    The founding fathers believed in Nigeria. Marcus Garvey dreamed of it. W.E.B. Du Bois anticipated its greatness. Millions of black people worldwide once looked to Nigeria as proof that black self-governance could succeed, that we could build nations rivaling any in the world. That faith, though battered, is not dead. But it requires resurrection through action.

    This resurrection demands transformative leadership that prioritizes education, healthcare, infrastructure, and security. It requires leaders who understand that development is not about white-elephant projects but about creating systems that work for ordinary citizens. It demands an end to impunity and the establishment of true accountability. Most fundamentally, it requires a commitment to building a genuine nation where every citizen, regardless of ethnicity or religion, feels valued and protected.

    Sixty-five years of failure is enough. Nigerians deserve better. Africa deserves a Nigeria that fulfills its promise. The world deserves a  black nation that will raise it’s brows at the maltreatment of any black man in any part of the world. The question is whether those in positions of power and influence—political leaders, business elites, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and every citizen—have the courage to make it happen.

    The independence blues need not be our permanent state. But changing the tune requires each Nigerian to demand more from our leaders and from ourselves. The giant of Africa must finally awaken, not to rhetoric and empty promises, but to purposeful action and genuine transformation. Our founding fathers lit a torch sixty-five years ago. It is time we stopped letting it flicker and instead let it blaze, illuminating a path to the Nigeria that was promised, the Nigeria that is possible, the Nigeria that must be.

  • Foursquare celebrates Nigeria’s independence

    Foursquare celebrates Nigeria’s independence

    Lagos was agog as the Foursquare Gospel Church celebrated Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary with a prophetic gathering at the historic Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Lagos—the very ground where the Green-White-Green flag was first hoisted on October 1, 1960.

    Worshippers also gathered simultaneously across all the church’s worship centres nationwide.

    The event, tagged ‘Refreshing Dew,’ was distinct from the church’s quarterly Holy Spirit Refreshing Vigil and marked the last major gathering for the quarter. It featured powerful song ministrations by renowned gospel artistes, including Deacon Adun Bohan, Pastor Tope Folajinmi, and Emma “Oh My God,” leading the congregation in vibrant praise and worship.

    Ministering at the programme, the General Overseer of the Foursquare Gospel Church in Nigeria, Revd. Dr. Sam Aboyeji, who  made prophetic declarations concerning the nation.

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    Speaking under divine instruction, he explained that the Lord had directed him to carry out symbolic acts at the source of Nigeria’s independence.

    Reading from 2 Kings 2:19–21, Aboyeji declared a spiritual cleansing over the land, likening Nigeria’s challenges to the “bad water” healed by Prophet Elisha. His sermon, titled “Restoring Complete and Perfect Blessings,” emphasized that God intends to restore and perfect Nigeria’s blessings.

    “Today, October 1, 2025, as Nigeria turns 65, we have returned to the very place where independence was proclaimed. This is prophetic fulfillment. God wants to restore this nation’s blessings, and by spiritual authority, every obstacle—the ‘but’ we have been contending with—shall be erased,” Aboyeji proclaimed.

    Explaining the symbolism of white attire worn by worshippers, he said: “Salt is white, and you are the salt of the earth. God brought you here to neutralize corruption in Nigeria. Whatever happened on October 1, 1960, that hindered the nation’s destiny is corrected here today by the authority of the Lord.”

    In a symbolic act, Aboyeji invited Bishop Stephen Adegbite, Lagos State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), to join him on the altar as they held the Nigerian flag and made prophetic declarations, drawing from Leviticus 25:13.

    In his remarks, Bishop Adegbite described the event as historic: “There was no national parade in Abuja today, but this gathering is bigger than any national parade. Rev. Aboyeji had no knowledge of our coming, yet God orchestrated it. As the chaplain at the Aso Rock Villa, I affirm that this is divine confirmation.”

    Adegbite also prayed for the General Overseer, the church, and the nation.

    The celebration also coincided with the 70th anniversary (Platinum Jubilee) of the Foursquare Gospel Church in Nigeria. Aboyeji congratulated members and urged them to see the day as both a national and spiritual jubilee. He further announced the church’s Annual National Convention, themed “Completion and Perfection,” scheduled to hold at the Ajebo Campground, Ogun State, from October 6–12, 2025.

    The independence celebration was marked with joy, prophecy, and hope, as thousands lifted prayers for Nigeria’s peace, restoration, and progress.

  • President Bola Tinubu and the true meaning of Independence

    President Bola Tinubu and the true meaning of Independence

    • By Gbenga Abiola

    On October 1st, 1960, Nigeria gained independence from British colonial rule. It was celebrated as freedom from centuries of human and economic exploitation. It marked the end of the slave trade, the dehumanization of our people, and the systematic drain of our natural wealth. But more than six decades later, the question still echoes: Did Nigeria truly achieve independence, or was it only the beginning of another phase of control?

    From the very first administration in 1960, it became clear that independence was not complete. Nigeria’s leadership was forced to operate within frameworks designed by Western interests, particularly around the control of natural resources. 

    As military coups toppled governments and dictatorships emerged, foreign influence remained in place. Policies were shaped abroad, debts piled up, and sovereignty was limited. Independence too often looked like an illusion.

    At the heart of this neo-colonial arrangement was the constant effort to dominate Nigeria’s natural wealth. By keeping the country dependent on foreign refineries, international lenders and imported goods, external powers ensured that Nigeria remained under their grip. Successive governments, from one Head of State to another, found it difficult to break free. Progress was slowed and dignity was weakened.

    The story began to change with the rise of Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Though educated abroad, Tinubu was forged in Nigeria’s own political struggles. From his days in NADECO resisting military dictatorship to his transformation of Lagos State into Africa’s fastest-growing economy and one of the most creative hubs in the world, he built a reputation for resilience, vision and innovation. What he did in Lagos was a preview of the national rebirth he now drives as President.

    Today, under President Tinubu, Nigeria is walking firmly toward true independence. 

    His words, “It is time to work as partners, not as masters and servants,” capture a new spirit of leadership. His government has refused to bow to external pressure, choosing instead to design policies that directly serve Nigerians. His leadership beats like the drum of freedom, breaking the chains of neo-colonialism that have held the nation for decades.

    In the oil and gas sector, Nigeria now hosts the world’s second-largest refinery, a bold step that ends reliance on foreign refineries. In finance, Tinubu’s reforms focus on reducing debt, exempting the poor from excessive taxes and strengthening the naira. These are practical steps that secure Nigeria’s sovereignty and give the people control over their future.

    Healthcare, education, infrastructure and agriculture are also being reshaped. Federal medical centres are being expanded and the cost of dialysis has been reduced. A new health insurance network is being built to protect citizens. The NEL Fund supports students and young people. 

    Airports are being revived and transport systems upgraded. In agriculture, regional food hubs are being established to stabilize prices, ensure food security and reduce dependence on imports.

    In less than two years, these reforms have started to show real results. Nigerians are seeing change in their daily lives, from cheaper access to healthcare to new opportunities in education and work. 

    Unlike past administrations that kept the country tied to dependency, Tinubu’s government is building structures that guarantee lasting independence. For the first time, Nigeria is setting its own terms and standing tall in global affairs.

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has proven himself to be more than a reformer. He is the leader who has finally redefined independence for Nigeria. 

    What began in 1960 as political freedom is now becoming full economic and institutional independence. Under his leadership, Nigerians can celebrate freedom that is real, practical and irreversible.

    – Gbenga Abiola, national coordinator, Tinubu Media Force, Nigeria’s largest progressive grassroots media structure

  • FG to honour 250 outstanding Nigerians for 65th independence anniversary

    FG to honour 250 outstanding Nigerians for 65th independence anniversary

    Ahead of the 65th Independence Anniversary, the Federal Government has announced plans to honour 250 exceptional Nigerians who have demonstrated excellence, innovation, and patriotism in their respective fields.

    The initiative, flagged off on Thursday, is part of a landmark project titled “Nigeria Celebrates”, which will culminate in the publication of a compendium showcasing top-performing Nigerians across the globe. 

    The commemorative project is a collaboration between the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) and OyanaHealth Limited.

    This was contained in a statement by Director of Information and Public Relations in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Segun Imohiosen, 

    Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Abuja, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, CON, described the initiative as a “historic and remarkable documentary” that not only pays tribute to Nigeria’s finest achievers but also reflects the enduring values of resilience, innovation, and patriotism.

    “This initiative presents a timely opportunity to reflect, project and celebrate the values that define the Nigerian spirit,” Akume said in a message delivered on his behalf by Mallam Mohammed Sanusi Danjuma, FCNA, the Permanent Secretary overseeing the General Services Office.

    Akume emphasised that the compendium will represent the face of Nigeria’s human capital potential, offering a vista of opportunities for the youth and inspiring the next generation to pursue excellence. 

    He further noted that the project aligns with national goals of unity and inclusive development.

    According to the SGF, the initiative will also highlight key achievements of the present administration as well as celebrate 11 top-performing state governors. 

    A series of other activities—including quiz competitions, exhibitions of creativity and innovation, patriotic musical concerts, and performances of songs of hope—will be staged as part of the broader celebration.

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    Engr. Nadungu Gagare, FNAIE, Permanent Secretary in the Political and Economic Affairs Office, lauded the compendium as both a strategic tool for positive storytelling and a historical archive of Nigerian excellence. 

    He said the effort would foster a renewed sense of purpose and national pride while showcasing inspiring stories of Nigerians succeeding both at home and abroad.

    “This will serve as a historic record and a strategy for inspiring talents and promoting credible narratives about Nigeria. It is about recognising excellence in governance and honouring those who are shaping Nigeria’s global image,” Gagare remarked.

    The convener of the project and CEO of OyanaHealth Ltd, Jennifer Chinyelu Obiasor, underscored the scope and significance of the initiative. 

    She said the compendium would spotlight 250 Nigerian trailblazers across sectors including medicine, technology, business, sports, entertainment, diplomacy, and academia.

    Obiasor described the theme “Nigeria Celebrates” as a rallying call to honour those whose contributions continue to uplift the country’s profile globally. 

    “This project is a celebration of distinction. It is about honouring Nigerians who have made tremendous impact globally and whose work continues to reflect the best of Nigeria,” she stated.

    The compendium is expected to be unveiled during the 65th Independence Day celebrations in October and will serve as a definitive guide to Nigeria’s top contributors across generations and disciplines.

  • Independence: Nigeria’s brightest days ahead of us, says Akpabio

    Independence: Nigeria’s brightest days ahead of us, says Akpabio

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Sunday, September 29, called on Nigerians to remain patient and hopeful, assuring them that the nation’s best days are yet to come.

    Akpabio made these remarks during the Inter-Denominational Church Service held at the National Christian Centre in Abuja, in commemoration of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Anniversary.

    Addressing the congregation, Akpabio acknowledged the country’s challenges but emphasized the importance of optimism and resilience as the nation moves forward.

    He said: “Yes, the road ahead may be bumpy. Yes, there will be setbacks. But together, united in our faith and love for Nigeria, we will prevail.

    “Our journey to become a prosperous nation is just beginning and I urge each of you to be patient, to hold on to hope, and to believe that change is not only possible but inevitable.

    “Nigeria’s brightest days are ahead of us. Together, with unwavering belief, we will build a nation that our children and generations to come will be proud of.”

    Akpabio acknowledged the indomitable spirit of Nigerians to withstand and overcome a myriad of challenges from the earliest struggles for independence up to date.

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    “Undoubtedly, the Nigerian nation is defined by resilience. From our earliest struggles for independence to the challenges of modern governance, we have continually shown our indomitable spirit.

    “When faced with adversity, we rise. When confronted with challenges, we unite. Today, I thank God for the Nigerian spirit that has led us through turbulent times, across our Red Seas and Jordan Rivers, over our hills and mountains, and through every valley we have encountered,” Akpabio said.

    He particularly commended the leadership qualities of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for steering the ship of the nation toward the path of prosperity.

    Akpabio said President Tinubu’s leadership gave the nation hope that “Nigeria can and will be better” adding that Tinubu’s “courage and dedication to Nigeria’s advancement is indeed inspirational.”

    The Senate President recalled some pro-development laws passed by the 10th National Assembly which were aimed at bringing renewed hope to the citizenry and fostering growth in key sectors.

    “As we commemorate Nigerias’ independence today, let us celebrate the achievements that have brought us this far.

    “Every milestone we have crossed is a testament to our collective will, strength, and determination as Nigerians. Our nation is in the process of a Renewed Hope Project that is tailored to rejuvenate our economy, empower our people, and lift the most vulnerable among us,” Akpabio said.

    Earlier, the Archbishop of Abuja, Methodist Church of Nigeria, Most Rev. Michael Akinwale preached a sermon of hope for the country when he spoke prophetically of seeing a dream that Nigeria would be great again and become one among the giants of nations of the world.

    Also in his remarks, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume said the government was making “huge progress.”

    He made specific reference to the efforts made by the government including the Students Loans scheme, gains recorded in the battle against insecurity, and the CNG initiatives.

    “There is hope. I have a dream too, that this country under Asiwaju is going to be the most blessed, most successful, and prosperous in Africa and the world,” Akume said.

  • Reflections on Nigeria’s 63rd independence anniversary

    Reflections on Nigeria’s 63rd independence anniversary

    Sixty-three years after independence, Chekwas Okorie, founding national chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), reflects on the journey so far and the way forward

    Nigeria’s 63 years of independence is checkered. I was already seven years old at independence. The celebration was palpable and widespread. As pupils in primary school, we were assured of a glorious future. Civics, a social science subject dealing with the rights and duties of citizens, was part of our primary education curricula during our time. We were nurtured with a high sense of responsibility and patriotism. By 1963, barely three years after independence, Nigeria became a Federal Republic made up of four regions, namely, the Northern Region, the Western Region, the Midwestern Region, and the Eastern Region.

    The regions enjoyed substantial levels of autonomy. There was healthy competition among the regions. Development was rapid. At the level of the federation, revenue allocation was based on the formula of 50 per cent by derivation. The Eastern Region became the fastest-growing third-world economy based on the Guinness World Records. The other regions also recorded impressive developmental strides in education and human capital resources. With the benefit of hindsight, the leadership Nigerians had at that time was the best. My generation still refers to that era as the good old days. Nigeria held great promise.

    The military coup of 1966, which toppled the Federal Government led by the late Alhaji Tafawa Balewa as Prime Minister and Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, as President, shattered the great promise Nigeria held and plunged the country into what has become an irreversible retrogression in all conceivable respects. The erstwhile fast-developing Northern Region, which is today made up of 19 states, has now acquired the unenviable tag of the poverty capital of the world.

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    The worst thing that hit Nigeria hard was the imposition of the 1999 Constitution on the people without their consent, which a national referendum on the document would have resolved. Nigeria lost its essence as a federation with the military incursion in the governance of the country in 1966. The 1999 constitution was mischievously designed to stagnate the country’s development; with the overwhelming majority of the citizens holding the short end of the stick.

    Many well-meaning Nigerians look up to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to initiate the process of restructuring the country without delay. The president’s current efforts to heal the nation and unite Nigerians from different parts of the country must be sustained to restore their faith as citizens.

    Similarly, the National Assembly must prioritize the review of the electoral laws. It must elect the enabling law for a full electronic voting system a mandatory provision in our electoral laws.

    I urge President Tinubu to use every presidential dispensation available to him as President and Commander-in-Chief of the Nigerian Armed Forces to introduce State/Community Police to tackle the growing insecurity in the country from the grassroots. The present arrangement of deploying police personnel to areas where they are resented or regarded as an army of occupation makes intelligence gathering and policing ineffective and unproductive. The president may start by directing the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to carry out the immediate redeployment of police personnel from the position of Divisional Police Officers downwards to their respective states or local governments of origin. This should be treated as a matter of national emergency. This singular measure will douse the tension of insecurity in the country to the lowest ebb.

  • How 63rd Independence anniversary was marked 

    How 63rd Independence anniversary was marked 

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    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday led top government officials and diplomats to observe a low-key, but colourful 63rd  Independence Anniversary at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

    It was the first independence anniversary celebrated by the Commander-in-Chief. 

    The day was marked with a presidential broadcast to Nigerians at 7:00am, the change of guards/cutting of cake/release of pigeons at Aso Villa by mid-morning and a church service at the Christian Ecumenical Centre in FCT Central Business District.

    The mid-morning event took off with symbolic military parade and entertainment by military and civilian troupes.

    President Tinubu was ushered into the Forecourt, the venue of the event, at exactly 10:15am by a 14-man Presidential Pipers dressed in Scottish attire.

    He took the national salute, after which he inspected the guards on parade mounted by the members of the Presidential guards.

    President Tinubu, who was decked in a traditional agbada in the national colours of green and white, signed the anniversary register, cut the cake, and released white pigeons into the air.

    Another significant event of the day was the ceremonial Change of Guards, which is regarded as the symbolic hand over of state’s control from the colonial British authorities to indigenous rulers.

    At the ceremony were Vice President Kashim Shettima; Senate President Godswill Akpabio; House of Representatives Speaker Abbas Tajudeen; the Chief Justice of the Federation, Olukayode Ariwoola; ministers, and some National Assembly members.

    There were also numerous diplomats from various countries, including those of the United Kingdom (UK), Morocco, India, Turkey, Burundi, Ireland, Cape Verde, Cote d’Ivoire, Argentina, Poland, South Africa, and Kenya.

    The Forecourt event replaced the regular full military parade, drills and other sundry entertainments, which used to hold at the popular Eagle Square in Abuja.

    Since 1st of October, 2010 when the anniversary celebration was disrupted by bomb blasts at the Eagle Square, the former President, Goodluck Jonathan, marked all subsequent anniversaries under his administration in the Forecourt at the Presidential Villa.

    However, former President Muhammadu Buhari broke the jinx by marking the 58th anniversary at the Eagles Square.

    The church service

    The inter-denominational anniversary service held at the National Christian Centre, had First Lady Oluremi Tinubu as guest of honour. 

    She pleaded with Nigerians to be patient with the president, saying he is not a magician.

    The first lady said while the administration is not blaming any administration, its primary purpose is to fix what is damaged.

    Mrs. Tinubh said: “We just came back from UNGA ‘78. It was really successful for us as a nation. The world awaits Nigeria. We came back with good news and all we inherited are things that have happened many years ago. We are not here to put blame on any administration, but to fix what is damaged.

    “My husband is not a magician; he is going to work brick by brick and I believe and hope that you will have faith in this administration. The best is yet to come for us.”

    The first lady expressed gratitude to God for enabling her to celebrate the Independence Day at the National Christian Centre as the First Lady.

    She described her participation at the event in her capacity as the president’s wife as a testimony on its own.

    She said: “I bring you warm greetings from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Today, as we gather to praise and worship God. Let us remember God’s faithfulness and love to us.

    “These words remind us that hope is not just a phrase, but a spirit that resides in each and every one of us. It is hope that transcends many challenges and uncertainties of the present. A hope that is deeply rooted in love and sacrifice; this is all what the love of Christ signifies. 

    “As a nation, we need to recognize that Christ being in us would only be exemplified by his nature or embodied in the food of the spirit  which is love, joy, peace, gentleness, goodness, faith and neatness, against such there is no love.”

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    Quoting Galatians: 5 verses 22- 23, she added: “Good governance can only be impactful. The faithful follow the example of Jesus Christ, who taught about forgiveness when they are offended and to forgive one another and be patient with one another.”

    The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, said: “I have listened to the very inspiring statement by the Rev Dr Israel Akanji. However, I want to observe one thing. I believe most of you listened to the broadcast of Mr. President this morning. 

    “The statement of hope,  not only that the major inputs in place were spelt out in that statement. This government was sworn in on May 29 2023. Nigerians gave President Bola Tinubu 48 months to transform Nigeria. He has done four months. Solutions to complex problems can never be as instant and prompt in this time.”

    The SGF said the government was considering mass funding of vehicles that can use CNG while ongoing reforms will yield greater results in the financial sector to ensure the growth of the economy on a scale that has never been known before.

    He added: “Remember what the former President said about President Tinubu when he was then candidate. He did it in Lagos and I believe very strongly that he would do it across the country. He has started and by the time the report of the CBN is out, that is when Nigerians will know why we are where we are today.”

    Rev. Akanji said the country had been wounded and bleeding, following insecurity.

    He advised the government to avoid making empty promises like by past administrations and take actions.  

    Akanji frowned at the feud between labour unions and the Federal Government on the removal of fuel subsidy.

    He called on both parties to embrace fruitful dialogue and avoid a situation that will put the economy in a bad shape.

    Rev. Akanji said: “Bandits have come, robbers have come, the wicked have come. Nigeria has been wounded, bleeding and dying. And God is calling upon us to rise up.

    “God is calling us to be the Samaritans. Jericho is between your house and the office. There are people wounded, bleeding and they need to be lifted up.

    “I called on our government to see Nigeria as a bleeding, wounded and dying country and we need Samaritan leaders, we need Samaritan principals, vice chancellors, Samaritan business men, Samaritan pastors who will help members of their churches to get back on their feet. Samaritan senators, Samaritan ministries, Samaritan president.

    “We don’t want additional wounds; we want to be healed. We want to thank President Bola Tinubu for his speech on Democracy Day and wonderful promises. The promise on our economy, security, empowerment, even women and youths will be accommodated to come out of the woods.”

    Other dignitaries at the service were Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, Representative of the Speaker, other members of the National Assembly, President Court of Appeal Monica Dongban-Mensen, Minister Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, Acting Inspector -General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, Service Chiefs’, diplomats and other government officials. 

  • First Lady arrives Ecumenical center for 63rd Independence service 

    First Lady arrives Ecumenical center for 63rd Independence service 

    Wife of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has arrived the Ecumenical Center for the 63rd Independence service. 

    Senator Oluremi Tinubu, arrived the venue at about 2:40pm amongst other dignitaries.

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    The service is billed to officially hold by 3:00pm.

    Details shortly…

  • Independence: Oyo gubernatorial hopeful felicitates Nigerians

    Independence: Oyo gubernatorial hopeful felicitates Nigerians

    A gubernatorial hopeful in Oyo State, Peter Olaoluwa has facilitated Nigerians on the occasion of the 63rd independence celebration.

    He said Nigerians and Oyo residents must come together to build strong nation and economic super power with prosperity for all and preeminence in the comity of nations.

    A statement by Olaoluwa urged Nigerians to keep hope alive and support the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has shown excellent leadership skills with Governor Seyi Makinde. 

    He urged them to overcome fear, banish doubts, and overcome the political and economic conditions that degrade and dehumanize them.

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    “We are blessed with a numerous endowments, especially the presence of massive natural resources. However, our greatest assets are our people. With a population of over 200 million people and being the largest black nation in the world Nigeria is without doubt a force to reckon with.”

    Olaoluwa, who has assisted communities across Oyo State to fixed infrastructure, expressed readiness to continue imparting positively on people and stand by them. 

    He also congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his recent victory at the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal and called on opposition parties to team up with him.