“Presently, we are witnessing our country being torn asunder, yearning for a miracle to halt the upheaval. The Nigeria we see today is a result of our collective actions, while the Nigeria we do not see is a consequence of our collective inaction. The power to shape Nigeria for better or worse rests solely in our hands. The prevailing discontent in the nation is understandable, as Nigeria has not been fair to all. The unfairness has occurred as a result of the framework we have constructed. Unfortunately, we are hesitant to reevaluate this framework.”
Several years ago, one of our priests, Fr. Amaechi Ugwu, SJ, visited a local church under St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Benin City, Nigeria, to celebrate Mass. It was customary in the local church for the Catechist to summarize the priest’s homily in simple pidgin language during the announcements so the congregation could better understand. On this particular day, the Catechist began by stating in pidgin language, “na only one thing dey vex me.” This surprised Fr. Ugwu, who had just finished celebrating Mass, as he wondered what had upset the Catechist. The Catechist continued in pidgin language, saying, “Pinkin wey be 40 years still the drink akamu… no be die be that?” Intrigued by this statement, Fr. Ugwu sought clarification from the Catechist about its meaning. After careful observation, Fr. Ugwu realized that the Catechist was referring to Nigeria, which, despite reaching the age of 40, still exhibited immature behavior. If only the Catechist was alive today, he would realize that Nigeria has not changed. The nation continues to struggle with maturity at 64. This story resonates with me every Independence Day, serving as a poignant reminder of Nigeria’s struggles to fulfill its fundamental needs despite its long existence.
I have never witnessed an Independence Day celebration as subdued as the one in 2024. On October 1, 2024, Nigeria marked its 64th Independence Day Anniversary. However, instead of the usual exuberant displays of national pride, an unusual quietness pervaded the atmosphere, almost as if the entire nation was in mourning. Usually, people would flood social media with images of Nigeria and line the streets with flags, but this time, it was remarkably quiet. The usual vibrant displays of patriotism and national pride were conspicuously absent. This subdued atmosphere was a stark departure from the usual exuberant national pride and unity displays. The subdued Independence Day celebration prompted reflection on Nigeria’s current social and political climate. Many citizens and observers began questioning the factors contributing to this shift, raising concerns about the nation’s challenges and the reasons behind the subdued national spirit. The subdued atmosphere sparked discussions about the need for unity and resilience in Nigeria’s socio-political complexities, fostering a deeper contemplation of the country’s path forward.
As Nigeria commemorates its 64th anniversary of independence on October 1, 2024, the sense of national pride has become increasingly fragile. Once hailed as a beacon of hope for post-colonial Africa, Nigeria reflects wasted potential and lost opportunities. The 2024 Independence Day was no longer just a celebration of national accomplishments but a stark reminder of political dysfunction, economic mismanagement, and social decline. Nigerians’ current realities are far from the promises made in 1960 when the country gained independence from British colonial rule. Decades of leadership failures, corruption, and ethnic tensions have undermined trust in the country’s institutions. The streets, once vibrant with parades and enthusiastic flag-waving, now stand eerily quiet, symbolizing the disillusionment felt by many citizens. For many, independence has seemingly lost significance, and there is a growing call for meaningful change and a brighter future for Nigeria. The 64th Independence Day comes amidst introspection, unpredictability, and increasing dissatisfaction among its populace. Typically characterized by patriotic festivities, processions, and public addresses, this year’s commemorations have been muted with the following issues:
Nigeria’s economy has historically relied heavily on revenue from oil, making it vulnerable to fluctuations in global oil prices. This overreliance has left millions of Nigerians at risk of economic instability when external shocks occur. Despite rhetoric from past governments about diversifying the economy, little progress has been made in shifting toward more sustainable sectors. The lack of diversification has hindered the country’s ability to withstand economic downturns and has perpetuated a cycle of dependence on oil revenue. The current administration’s economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidies, have had a detrimental impact, exacerbating financial burdens on the population. The removal of fuel subsidies has led to a sharp increase in fuel prices, which has had a domino effect on the cost of goods and services, leading to high inflation and a significant decline in purchasing power for many Nigerians. Similarly, President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies, designed to stabilize the economy and reduce government debt, have inadvertently led to widespread hardship for millions. The cost of living has skyrocketed, making it increasingly difficult for ordinary citizens to afford necessities. As a result, the negative impact of these economic measures has overshadowed any potential celebratory mood, highlighting the urgent need for effective policy adjustments to address the hardship faced by the population.
The social fabric of Nigeria is also under siege by an unprecedented wave of insecurity. Terrorism, banditry, and kidnappings have ravaged the nation, particularly in the North, where the Boko Haram insurgency continues to wreak havoc. The government’s failure to secure its citizens’ safety is a glaring indictment of its leadership. According to reports, between 2018 and 2024, over 11,000 lives have been lost due to insurgent activities, and millions have been displaced from their homes. This lack of security has crippled both local and foreign investments, making economic recovery even more elusive. The impact of this insecurity is deeply felt across various sectors. Schools have been forced to close several times, denying children access to education and jeopardizing the nation’s future. Healthcare services have been disrupted, leading to increased suffering and loss of life. Furthermore, the agricultural sector, a critical component of Nigeria’s economy, has been severely affected, resulting in food shortages and economic hardship for farmers. In addition, the psychological toll on the population is immeasurable, with communities living in constant fear and anxiety. The prevailing insecurity in the region has significantly hindered the smooth movement of goods and services, impeded cross-border trade and economic growth and overshadowed any potential celebratory mood.
Nigeria’s political landscape remains tense due to various factors, including governance, transparency, and accountability issues. These challenges have sparked public discontent and widespread calls for reform nationwide. Citizens, civil society organizations, and multiple stakeholders advocate for significant changes to address these issues and improve the political environment. The lack of transparency in government operations refers to the opacity surrounding public expenditures, contracts, and decision-making processes. This lack of transparency has led to mismanagement and financial impropriety, fueling public dissatisfaction. Widespread corruption, ranging from embezzlement to bribery, has further exacerbated the situation, eroding trust in public institutions and impeding socio-economic development. The unequal distribution of resources has also contributed to social and economic disparities, prompting demands for fairer resource allocation and wealth distribution. In addition to these challenges, there is a growing concern about the influence of special interest groups on policymaking. Many fear these groups hold undue sway over government decisions, potentially prioritizing their agendas over the public interest. This has underscored the need to strengthen democratic institutions, such as the judiciary and electoral bodies, to ensure fair representation and effective governance. Amidst these challenges, many citizens expressed a profound disillusionment and disenchantment, believing that pervasive challenges overshadowed any reasons to rejoice and commemorate the nation’s independence.
The frequency of social unrest and protests in Nigeria has increased significantly in recent years, reflecting the deep-seated frustration and widespread demand for change among the Nigerian populace. The underlying causes of these demonstrations are multifaceted, encompassing economic inequality, high levels of unemployment, political corruption, and a lack of accountability among government officials. Additionally, the protests are fueled by calls for improved social services such as healthcare and education and demands for better governance and transparency. The Nigerian people are actively voicing their concerns and seeking meaningful reforms to address the pressing issues that directly impact their daily lives. Moreover, environmental pressures have exacerbated the challenges faced by Nigeria. The country is grappling with deforestation, leading to biodiversity loss and impacting the livelihoods of many Nigerians who rely on forests for resources. Pollution from industrial activities and urbanization contributes to health issues and environmental degradation. Furthermore, the effects of climate change, including erratic weather patterns and rising temperatures, pose significant challenges to the country’s agricultural activities and food security. These environmental issues add another layer of complexity to the already pressing social and economic concerns the Nigerian population faces. These challenges have cast a shadow over the usual celebrations, prompting a reflection and a call for action to address the nation’s pressing issues as it marks its 64th year of independence.
Nigeria’s 64 years of independence have been marked by persistent tribalism and deep-seated ethnic divisions. The nation’s population consists of over 250 ethnic groups, each with its own distinct cultural heritage and traditions. This rich diversity, while a source of strength, has also contributed to challenges in fostering a unified national identity. The struggle to find common ground among these diverse groups has led to ongoing tensions and conflicts. Various movements, such as the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) in the Southeast, have emerged, advocating for regional autonomy and even secession. These movements argue that their respective ethnic groups have been marginalized and seek to establish independent states along ethnic lines. This further exacerbates the lack of national cohesion and poses significant challenges to Nigeria’s unity. The enduring ethnic tensions have created a sense of alienation among some Nigerians, who find it difficult to identify with a unified national identity. For them, the broader narrative of independence and nationhood feels disconnected from their lived experiences. These underlying issues continue to shape the socio-political landscape of Nigeria, highlighting the complexities of fostering solidarity and unity in a nation with such diverse ethnic tapestry.
At the heart of Nigeria’s long-term development are two critical sectors: education and healthcare. Both are in disrepair, with severe consequences for the country’s future. According to UNICEF, once known for its educational prowess, Nigeria now has the world’s highest number of out-of-school children—17.81 million- a staggering figure representing a significant loss of human potential and talent. This educational crisis is exacerbated by the brain drain among educators, with many talented teachers leaving the country in search of better opportunities, further weakening the education system. In addition to the educational challenges, Nigeria also faces significant healthcare issues. The exodus of doctors and healthcare professionals due to better opportunities abroad has left the country with a severe shortage of medical personnel. This, coupled with decades of underfunding, has resulted in a healthcare system that struggles to meet the population’s needs. As a result, many Nigerians are forced to seek medical treatment abroad, leading to a drain on the country’s resources and a loss of faith in the domestic healthcare system. The consequences of these challenges are far-reaching. A nation that cannot invest in the education of its youth is doomed to a future of mediocrity, with long-term implications for economic development and social progress. Similarly, a healthcare system that forces its citizens to seek medical treatment abroad is a national failure, undermining the population’s well-being and eroding confidence in the country’s institutions. The phenomenon of Nigerians seeking better living conditions abroad, known as “Japa,” has come to symbolize the country’s inability to provide decent living standards for its people. The lack of thorough and impactful government policies to tackle the challenges in these sectors has led to a widespread feeling of disillusionment among the population. This disillusionment has added to a general sense of hopelessness about the future, as people believe these sectors have provided little cause for celebrating and acknowledging the nation’s independence. As a result, the prevailing disillusionment and disengagement have intensified.
For all its challenges, Nigeria holds enormous untapped potential across various sectors. The emergence of its tech industry and the entrepreneurial drive of its young population serve as beacons of hope for the nation’s future. Nevertheless, realizing this potential hinges on a shift in fundamental government approaches. This shift necessitates a steadfast focus on economic diversification, robust infrastructure development, and enhanced institutional accountability. Regarding economic diversification, Nigeria must move beyond political rhetoric and implement actionable policies to expand into agriculture, technology, and manufacturing. This expansion should not only be aspirational but also backed by concrete strategies. The country’s burgeoning startup ecosystem, often overlooked, presents a promising avenue for growth within the private sector. By tapping into this resource, Nigeria can unlock substantial economic opportunities. Moreover, ensuring reliable and affordable infrastructure, particularly in energy and internet access, will be pivotal in unlocking Nigeria’s potential. Access to dependable energy and affordable internet services facilitates growth and innovation across various industries, including technology and manufacturing. The absence of comprehensive and effective government policies to address technological challenges has resulted in widespread disillusionment among the youth. This disillusionment has contributed to a pervasive despair about the future, as the youth feel that the lack of progress has given them little reason to commemorate and recognize the nation’s independence.
Many Nigerians felt the 64th Independence Day did not warrant celebration due to the nationwide scandal involving government agencies. Instead of observing the national holiday, many individuals turned to social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram to discuss the contentious Bobrisky scandal involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the National Correction Service, and the sensational figure known as VeryDarkMan. The scandal, which revolved around allegations of fraud, money laundering, and identity theft, captured the public’s attention and provided an alternative to the Independence Day festivity, which many found unworthy of celebration. As a result, the focus shifted from patriotic events to intense discussions about the scandal and its implications for the country’s legal and social systems. Furthermore, amidst the lack of enthusiasm for Independence Day celebrations, many Nigerians followed the latest updates on Big Brother Naija’s popular reality TV show. The show garnered widespread attention and became a significant source of entertainment and distraction for the populace during national disillusionment. The country’s ongoing challenges, including high unemployment rates, increasing insecurity in various regions, and economic instability, contributed to disillusionment among the populace. This disengagement from traditional Independence Day celebrations reflected many Nigerians’ deep-seated concerns and frustrations regarding the nation’s state. The prevalence of social media discussions and the focus on alternative forms of entertainment underscored the impact of these challenges on the collective mindset of the Nigerian people.
The lingering question is: Does Nigeria still drink akamu? Despite 64 years of independence from British colonial rule, the country still continues to drink akamu. Nigeria’s lack of progress has led to a notable transformation from being the powerhouse of Africa to a nation in turmoil. Presently, we are witnessing our country being torn asunder, yearning for a miracle to halt the upheaval. The Nigeria we see today is a result of our collective actions, while the Nigeria we do not see is a consequence of our collective inaction. The power to shape Nigeria for better or worse rests solely in our hands. The prevailing discontent in the nation is understandable, as Nigeria has not been fair to all. The unfairness has occurred as a result of the framework we have constructed. Unfortunately, we are hesitant to reevaluate this framework. Any leader who aims to make a meaningful impact must transcend personal biases and group affiliations to unite Nigerians in service of the nation. Such a leader must redefine Nigerian citizenship to instill patriotism and foster a deep love for our country. This is the only path to reignite hope for Nigeria. Our collective hope for the future must come from within us, the people of Nigeria.
In response to the previous question, Nigeria continues to drink akamu. While the government is actively working to address this issue and instill hope for the future, many Nigerians believe greater efforts are required to achieve these objectives. Therefore, the government must promptly and decisively tackle longstanding governance, security, and economic management issues. This entails addressing corruption, political instability, inequality, insurgency, and economic diversification. By confronting these challenges, Nigeria can move beyond its turbulent history and construct a future that embodies its diverse population’s resilience, strength, and potential.
Rev. Ma, S.J., is a Jesuit Catholic priest of the North West Africa Province of the Society of Jesus. He writes from Abuja, FCT.
