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ABIODUN OMODARA and BENEDICTA BASSEY write that as the pulsating rhythms of celebration echo through the vibrant streets of Nigeria, the nation marks its 64th year of independence in the midst of terrible economic challenges that have tested the resilience and fortitude of its people.
Nigeria, a country rich in cultural diversity and natural resources, finds itself at a critical juncture as it navigates through a landscape of economic hardships, yet continues to stand tall with undying spirit and unwavering hope for a brighter tomorrow.
On this momentous occasion, amidst the colorful festivities and commemorative events, the Nigerian populace is reminded of the struggles and triumphs that have shaped the nation's journey since gaining independence in 1960.
The road to progress has been fraught with obstacles, ranging from political instability and corruption to poverty and infrastructure deficits, all of which have contributed to the current economic challenges facing the country.
The Nigerian economy, historically buoyed by its oil wealth, has experienced severe downturns in recent years due to fluctuating oil prices, mismanagement of resources, and a lack of diversification.
The impact of these economic hardships has been felt by the everyday Nigerian, with many struggling to make ends meet and provide for their families.
However, amid these adversities, there is a prevailing sense of resilience and determination that defines the Nigerian spirit. The people of Nigeria have shown time and again their ability to overcome obstacles, adapt to change, and find innovative solutions to pressing issues. Communities have come together to support one another, entrepreneurs have forged new paths in the face of adversity, and civil society organisations have worked tirelessly to advocate for positive change.
This year's independence celebrations serve as a poignant reminder of the challenges that lie ahead and the collective resolve needed to address them. As Nigeria looks towards its future, there is a renewed sense of urgency to drive sustainable economic growth, promote inclusive development, tackle corruption, and invest in critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Government officials, civil society leaders, and everyday Nigerians alike are joining hands to chart a course towards a more prosperous and equitable future for all. Calls for transparency, accountability, and good governance ring loud across the nation, as Nigerians thrive to build a worthy economy that would benefit the citizenry and ensure a better quality of life for future generations.
As the sun sets on Nigeria's 64th year of independence, the nation reflects on its journey filled with triumphs, challenges, and aspirations. The rich tapestry of Nigeria's history is woven with tales of resilience, cultural diversity, and the continuous quest for unity amid diversity.
From the struggles of the past to the promises of the future, Nigeria stands at a crossroads, poised to harness its potential and shape a brighter tomorrow for its people. As the shadows lengthen and the night falls, the spirit of unity and progress shines brightly in the hearts of Nigerians, guiding them towards a future of prosperity, peace, and inclusive growth.
Speaking on the nation’s current challenges, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in his national broadcast today to mark Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day anniversary, emphasised his administration’s commitment to long-term reforms for economic recovery, security, and youth development.
Some of the highlights the President's broadcast today are as follows:
Economic reforms and high cost of living
In Tinubu's address concerning the economic difficulties faced by Nigerians, he emphasised his administration’s commitment to reforms aimed at restoring growth and stability, acknowledging that, “many of you struggle with rising living costs and the search for meaningful employment but be reassured that we are beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel.”
Recall that Nigeria, the Africa’s most populous nation is currently grappling with rising prices, owing to fuel subsidy removal and exchange rate unification by Tinubu’s administration.
Though headline inflation has slowed for the second consecutive months to 32.15 per cent in August 2024, the living conditions of the citizens have yet to get any better.
Analysts have explained that food inflation, which constitutes over 50 per cent of Nigeria’s headline inflation, has also decelerated to 37.52 per cent due to seasonal harvests.
Nigeria, a nation with over 220 million people, has more than 24 million people who are food insecure and plunged into hunger, according to the 2024 Global Report on Food Crises.
The government, though, has rolled out measures, including distribution of grains to the most vulnerable groups, to douse the pains, yet food insecurity continues to be a major challenge as most Nigerians are just earning to survive the hardship.
The Nigerian government has also recently suspended duties, tariffs, and taxes for the importation of maize, husked brown rice, wheat, and cowpeas for 150 days.
However, the palliative measures are yet to cool the prices of staples already up in the market as Nigerians continue to spend 65% per cent of their income on food, according to the World Food Programme (WFP).
The CBN has so far raised the monetary policy rate by a combined 850 basis points from 18.75 per cent in July 2023 to 27.25 per cent last month, reaching the highest ever recorded in the country to bolster the battered economy.
Security progress
On the security front, Tinubu celebrated the military’s successes against insurgents, particularly Boko Haram and bandit commanders.
He revealed that over 300 commanders have been eliminated in the past year, restoring peace to several communities in the North.
“Our target is to eliminate all threats of Boko Haram, banditry, and kidnapping for ransom,” he declared.
Insecurity remains a primary driver of the food crisis, disrupting agricultural production, hindering distribution, and limiting access to essential resources.
Disaster relief
In response to recent natural disasters, particularly flooding, the president announced the approval of a Disaster Relief Fund by the Federal Executive Council.
He noted that his government had conducted integrity tests on all dams to prevent future calamities. “This federal government will always stand with our people in their times of trouble,” he pledged.
In 2012 and 2022, devastating floods attributed to dam releases displaced millions, destroyed thousands of homes, and severely impacted agricultural production.
Following the collapse of the Alau Dam a few days ago, devastating floods inundated approximately 70% of Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, posing further strain on Nigeria’s already dire food crisis and worsening hunger.
Flood is one of the drivers of Nigeria’s ballooning internally displaced persons (IDPs), which stood at 3.34 million at the end of 2023, according to the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC).
Focus on youth and job creation
The president announced plans for a National Youth Conference aimed at addressing the challenges faced by young Nigerians.
He emphasised the importance of giving young people a platform in nation building, stating, “We are creating a pathway for a brighter tomorrow by ensuring that young people’s voices are heard in shaping policies that impact their lives.”
Also, the government’s 3 Million Technical Talents (3MTT) programme, designed to develop tech skills and create employment among the youth, was emphasised.
Nigeria is grappling with a rising jobless rate with unemployment soaring to 5.3 per cent in the first quarter (Q1) of 2024 from 4.1 per cent reported in the corresponding period of 2023, according to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).
The unemployment rate rose by 19.1 per cent in four years, moving from 14.2 per cent in 2016 to 33.3 per cent in 2020, while the underemployment rate accelerated from 21 per cent to 22.8 per cent.
“But based on a new methodology that the NBS recently migrated to, the unemployment rate in 2024 Q1 was 5.3 per cent and the time-related underemployment rate was 10.6 per cent,” Analysts and Data Services and Research (ADSR) said in its recent report.
Energy
On the energy front, Tinubu reiterated his government’s commitment to the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) for mass transit, ensuring cheaper public transportation.
Fiscal policy and debt management
The president highlighted his administration’s efforts to stabilise the economy, including clearing inherited foreign exchange backlogs and reducing the debt service ratio from 97% to 68%.
He stated, “We have managed to keep our foreign reserve at $37 billion while meeting all our obligations.” Fiscal policy reforms are also underway to stimulate investment and reduce tax burdens.
The president also highlighted ongoing efforts to reform the fiscal system, emphasising that the country attracted over $30 billion in foreign direct investments within the past year.
He stated, “If we do not correct the fiscal misalignments that led to the current economic downturn, our country will face an uncertain future.”
Also, former President Goodluck Jonathan has called for the strengthening of democratic institutions as the key to ensuring good governance and fostering national prosperity.
In a statement he shared on his X handle, Jonathan emphasised that the country’s future depends on the integrity of its institutions and the development of a democratic culture that promotes transparency, equity and inclusion.
He said, “For us to deepen the roots of our democracy and foster inclusive economic growth, we must strengthen our institutions and develop a good democratic culture that will support peaceful, transparent, free and fair elections."
He argued that without robust institutions that ensure accountability and uphold the rule of law, the country’s progress would remain stunted.
Jonathan believed that the foundation of good governance lies in electoral integrity, urging that transparent elections are critical for building trust in leadership and promoting national unity.
Jonathan underscored the need for governance systems to prioritise justice, equity, and inclusion.
Governors preach unity, oneness amid hardship
As part of the activities to mark this year's independence, state governors have encouraged citizens to persevere and have faith in God and in the leaderships across the states and the Federal Government, assuring the citizens that there is light at the end of the tunnel.
Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has hailed Nigerians as the country marks her 64th independence anniversary, urging citizens to work in unity to surmount the economic and security challenges facing the country.
In a statement in Asaba by Festus Ahon, his Chief Press Secretary, Oborevwori admonished Nigerians to work in unison, irrespective of political, religious and ethnic diversities, to ensure the country overcomes its current challenges.
“At 64, Nigeria has come a long way, despite economic, security and political setbacks. It is important we remain strong, exercise patience and be of good faith in God and our nation’s leaders at this critical period of economic and security challenges,” he advised.
Alhaji Mohammed Bago, the Niger state Governor, said the problems facing Nigeria “are enormous but surmountable”.
Bago made the remarks in a message to mark the 64th independence day of the country.
He asked Nigerians to be prayerful for things to change for the better
He stated, “The nation is, indeed, going through a difficult time at the moment, I believe that the prevailing harsh economy, orchestrated by several factors, will soon be a thing of the past. The governments at all levels are making efforts to ameliorate their sufferings and stabilise the economy.”
In the message by his Chief Press Secretary, Bologi Ibrahim, Bago said the federal and state governments were doing everything possible to improve the citizens’ condition of living.
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, said the development and unity of the state remained his priority.
Represented by Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Deborah Aber Esq, Alia said he was determined to change the fortunes of Benue through new socio-economic policies.
He stated, “I have prioritised staff welfare, basic infrastructure, pensions and gratuity, health, education, agriculture youth and women empowerment. I want Benue citizens to smile and remain proud for voting me in.
“My administration has been working tirelessly to bring sustainable development and strengthening the security agencies to ensure peace across the state.”
Similarly, the Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, has called on Nigerians, including political leaders across the country, to embrace unity and pursue inclusive national economic development for the common good of the nation.
Mbah made the call in a message to mark Nigeria’s 64th independence anniversary. He described the country’s 64th anniversary as a milestone, adding that it is a testament to the resilient spirit of the people.
While underscoring the significant role of government in sustaining democracy, the governor stressed that the country could only thrive in an atmosphere of a sense of inclusion for everyone, with a deliberate effort to banish feelings of alienation.
Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki enjoined the people of the state and Nigeria, in general, to recommit to the ideals of democracy.
Obaseki said, “My dear good people of Edo State, I join you in marking Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day celebration, as we journey together on the path of building a strong, virile and prosperous nation.
“It is imperative to restate our commitment to democracy even in the face of pressures from different interests that seek to set us back.
“As we celebrate Nigeria’s Independence Day today, I urge you all to hold steadfastly to the belief in the assured prosperous future of our great state and the Nigerian nation, even as we all individually and collectively play our path in realising the noble vision of our founding fathers.”
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has said that the 2024 Independence anniversary came at a time of severe economic stress in many households, as the nation is grappling with economic difficulties due to the unfair global economic system and years of mismanagement.
Governor Uba Sani spoke at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna, on the occasion of Nigeria’s Independence Anniversary, on Tuesday.
Afenifere, others call for improved security, citizens' welfare
Pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and political organisation, Afenifere, urged the governments, politicians to improve security, people’s welfare as Nigeria marks her 64th independence anniversary.
Afenifere stated, “We celebrate not just the freedom we have achieved, but the collective effort that has brought us thus far. We honour the struggles of our past, the sacrifices of our heroes, and the unwavering spirit of our people.
"We recognise that nation-building is a marathon, not a sprint – a journey of incremental progress, not a single achievement. Even where the road is rough, we trudge on; spurred by the fact that independence is neither an end in itself, nor is it a destination. It is a continuous process of building, striving, and overcoming.”
“Sixty-four (64) years on, there have been highs and lows, ups and downs on the journey, but we are still striving. And there is cause for cheer. We have enjoyed uninterrupted democratic governance for twenty-four (24) years. Economically, Nigeria has experienced economic growth, becoming Africa’s largest economy.
"However, this anniversary comes at a time of severe economic stress in many households. Our nation is grappling with economic difficulties due to the unfair global economic system and years of mismanagement.”
Leader of Afenifere, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, in a statement signed by Afenifere’s National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, said although the country was going through a challenging moment, there was need to acknowledge the modest progress made since independence.
He stated, “Mentioned in this respect were the fact that Nigeria remains as one country, in spite of the civil war that was fought as well as some other internal crises that have taken place in the last 64 years.”
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) also charged Nigerians to use the 2024 Independence Day anniversary to reawaken the spirit of nationalism in defence of democracy and national sovereignty against allegedly emerging totalitarianism being foisted on the country by the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a statement by PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, the party urged Nigerians not to surrender to the bullying tactics of the APC administration, which, he alleged, sought to undermine the constitution, emasculate citizens, compromise institutions of democracy, and turn Nigeria into a fiefdom, where APC leaders arrogantly carried on like lords and treat other citizens as conquered people.
PDP said the Independence Day celebration underscored the freedom of the citizens to express themselves, pursue legitimate endeavours, and freely participate in the process of choosing those who lead them through an unhindered expression of their will at elections.
Ologunagba stated, “The independence of a nation is embedded in the respect for the rule of law and constitutionally guaranteed rights of citizens by a transparent and responsible government that is democratically elected, answerable and committed only to the good of the people.
“Since its calamitous arrival in the Nigerian political space, the APC continues to barefacedly stifle these fundamentals of our nation’s independence.
“It is, therefore, an irony that the APC deludes itself that Nigerians should celebrate Independence, which essence has been completely diminished by the anti-people policies and programmes of the APC that have not only discounted the lives of citizens but also deprived them of the independence to legitimately pursue their endeavours and freely participate in governance.”
Mixed feelings over celebration
There were mixed feelings among Nigerians regarding this year's Independence Day celebration as Rocketparrot News took to the streets of Lagos to sample the opinions of Nigerians.
A driver, who also doubles as the a member of the Ipaja Motor Park management described the situation of Nigeria as really bittersweet.
He said, "Honestly, Nigeria situation is bittersweet. Independence used to feel like a big deal, but now, with the rising cost of living and unemployment, it feels like a hollow celebration. "He said the government of President Biola Ahmed Tinubu is trying as he inherited most of the challenges in Nigeria but he could do better as he promised to take Nigeria to Promise Land.
“I still believe in Nigeria, but we need real change,” he stressed.
A business woman, identified simply as Beatrice, said the situation in the country had left her in a hopeless and helpless state.
She said, "I am indeed worried about the state of the nation. The prices of goods are skyrocketing on a daily basis. Last year, I could buy a bag of rice for much less than what I can buy now. It’s hard to celebrate when you are struggling to feed your family.
“I live in swampy area, when rain falls, my children and I will not be able to sleep; we are really suffering in Nigeria. The government should help the masses, we are hungry and acute poverty pervades the land,” she lamented.
Also for a bread retailer, who gave his name only as Alabi, said, "I feel frustrated as a graduate with good grades, but no jobs.
"Independence should mean freedom and opportunity, but it feels like we are still trapped in our struggles."
He urged the government to do what the citizens wanted and reduce hunger and alleviate people's poverty.
He added, "Government should reduce pump prices of petrol; if it means that the government will return the fuel subsidy, let them do so," he pleaded.
Also for a market trader, who spoke to Rocketparrot News at Iyana Ipaja, Lagos State, she hailed Nigeria for the country's independence but called for more methodology on the part of the government to tackle the economic situation.
She said, "I am proud of my country, and I will celebrate. However, the economic situation is tough. My business is barely surviving. We need better policies to support small businesses. Celebrating is important, but we need action to back it up."
Protesters lament Nigeria economic woes
There was a heightened security presence at the Ojota axis of Lagos State on Tuesday at about 1:30 pm as Nigerians protested what they described as untold economic hardship and bad governance.
Security operatives gathered at Freedom Park in Ojota, Lagos on Tuesday protesting against bad governance as the nation attains 64.
The security presence at the park was pronounced with the personnel of the different security outfits armed to the teeth.
Some of the security outfits were the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps (LNSC), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and Lagos State Task Force.
The October 1st protest against hardship in Nigeria continued as members of civil society groups, including Omoyele Sowore, called on the government to reduce the price of petrol and provide Nigerians with relief from hardship and suffering.
The Lagos Police Commissioner, CP Ishola, while speaking with newsmen, described the protest as peaceful and urged the protesters to continue being peaceful.
The groups in their numbers were brandishing placards with various inscriptions such as “End bad governance", "reduce petrol price to N197 per litre", "end scarcity", "reverse electricity tarrif", "end hunger and hardship."
They protesters marched from Ikeja Underbridge Lagos to the popular Freedom Park at Ojota, about 7km, chanting songs to reflect their moods on the state of the nation.
