As Nigeria celebrates yet another Independence Day on October 1, 2024, it’s a moment for reflection; a time to trace the nation’s footsteps from its first breath as a sovereign state in 1960 to the present day. This leap-by-leap journey through the decades highlights milestones, challenges, and lessons, offering a sobering reflection on how far we’ve come and how far we still need to go.

The First 20 Years (1960–1980): The Birth of a Nation

1960–1970: Early Growth and Civil War

Nigeria’s first decade as an independent nation was characterized by high hopes and deep political challenges. Gaining independence on October 1, 1960, the country embarked on a mission to unite over 250 ethnic groups under one national identity. However, the political structure was fragile, and tensions between ethnic groups, particularly between the Northern and Eastern regions, intensified.

The result was the tragic Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970), which left scars that would shape Nigeria’s politics for decades to come. Yet, in spite of the challenges, the nation displayed remarkable resilience, emerging from the war with its unity intact.

Let all your views in life be directed to a solid, however moderate, independence; without it no man can be happy, nor even honest

1971–1980: Economic Boom and Political Instability

The early ’70s saw a significant economic boom driven by oil discoveries. By 1974, Nigeria had become one of the world’s largest oil exporters, ushering in a period of affluence. However, this prosperity was coupled with political instability. A series of military coups throughout the ’60s and ’70s left Nigeria struggling for consistent leadership.

A striking example of Nigeria’s potential during this period occurred in 1974, when the International Monetary Fund (IMF), recognizing Nigeria’s wealth and resources, borrowed money from Nigeria. As noted by Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji, then Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Finance, Nigeria was in a position of economic strength, bolstered by oil revenue. Reflecting on that moment years later, Alhaji lamented Nigeria’s current challenges, saying: “I weep for Nigeria for what it has become today.” This era was marked by national pride and economic promise, but the seeds of corruption and mismanagement had already begun to take root.

The Second 20 Years (1981–2000): Turbulence and Transition

1981–1990: Economic Decline and Structural Adjustment

The economic boom of the ’70s was short-lived. By the early ’80s, Nigeria was facing serious economic difficulties due to the global oil market crash. This led to a period of austerity measures and the introduction of the Structural Adjustment Program (SAP) under the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida in 1986. These policies, dictated by the IMF and World Bank, were meant to stabilize the economy but resulted in hardship for many Nigerians, as unemployment and inflation soared.

Independence is of more value than any gifts; and to receive gifts is to lose it.

1991–2000: The Return to Democracy

The ’90s were marked by political unrest, human rights violations, and continued military rule. However, the decade closed on a hopeful note with the return to democracy in 1999, as Nigeria transitioned from General Abdulsalami Abubakar’s regime to the presidency of Olusegun Obasanjo. After nearly two decades of military dictatorship, Nigeria entered the new millennium with a renewed sense of optimism for democratic governance.

The Third 20 Years (2001–2020): Growth and Struggles

2001–2010: Post-Democratic Reforms

The first decade of the 21st century brought both hope and hurdles. President Obasanjo’s administration focused on economic reform, tackling debt relief, and fighting corruption. Significant steps were taken, such as the creation of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in 2003. Nigeria also experienced growth in sectors such as telecommunications, with the introduction of mobile networks bringing connectivity to millions.

However, systemic corruption remained a major impediment to progress, and despite rising GDP figures, poverty levels continued to increase.

2011–2020: Security Challenges and Economic Recession

The second decade of the millennium saw the emergence of Boko Haram, a militant Islamist group that wreaked havoc in the northeastern part of the country, displacing millions and killing thousands. At the same time, the global drop in oil prices hit Nigeria’s economy hard, leading to the country’s first recession in over two decades by 2016.

Efforts to diversify the economy, focus on agriculture, and encourage entrepreneurship among the youth were initiated, but the implementation remained inconsistent.

Nelson Mandela … “For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others

Where Are We Now? (2021–2024)

In 2024, Nigeria stands at a crossroads. Despite being Africa’s largest economy, the country grapples with persistent issues: high unemployment, insecurity, inflation, and political instability. Young Nigerians, many of them graduates, face the grim reality of limited job opportunities, as reflected in the poignant story of the father with four son; an engineer, a master’s degree holder, a Ph.D. holder, and a thief where the thief is the only one making a living.

This tragic irony underscores the disillusionment with the promises of education and government assistance. Many youths are forced to navigate a system that seems rigged against them, while the nation’s leaders struggle to provide sustainable solutions.

Reflecting on Our Independence: Lessons and the Way Forward

The journey from 1960 to 2024 tells a story of potential, missed opportunities, resilience, and hope. From the economic highs of the ’70s to the struggles of today, Nigeria has endured turbulent times but remains standing.

As we celebrate this year’s Independence Day, we must ask ourselves: What lessons have we learned? How can we harness our vast resources, both human and natural to chart a new course? The IMF once borrowed from us, a testament to our nation’s economic potential. The challenge now is to reclaim that potential by investing in our people, empowering our youth, and holding our leaders accountable.

In the words of Alhaji Abubakar Alhaji: “I weep for Nigeria for what it has become today.” But even in sorrow, there is a glimmer of hope. Nigeria’s journey is far from over. We are a resilient people, and with the right leadership, we can reclaim the promise of independence and steer our nation towards greatness once again.