Independence day; What you should know about Nigeria

Independence day; What you ought to understand about Nigeria

West African nation, Nigeria today, on October 1st 2021, commemorates its 61st Independence day, an occasion observed each year to signify the cessation of British colonial governance in the region.

This day is typically celebrated by Nigerians from all sectors, along with Nigerians and admirers of the nation abroad.

Many individuals whose youth spanned from 1960 to around 2006 would recollect participating in the parade marches within their respective states, where government officials from various tiers were present to receive the salutes from schoolchildren.

Although this custom has faded, it remains one of the enjoyable activities associated with such a day.

The celebration of Independence Day commences with an address from the President of the nation, who discusses the current state of the country, its accomplishments, and future aspirations.

For this year, President Muhammadu Buhari will deliver a message to the populace.

In his address on October 1st, 2021, Buhari stated, “For the events of October 1st, 1960 to transpire, everyone was involved. People from the East, West, and North united to honor freedom. Today should not only remind us of the occasion when the British transferred authority to Nigerians but also unite Nigerians across all ethnic backgrounds, faiths, and regions.”

Independence Day is a recognized public holiday in Nigeria, where all Nigerians within the nation, including those in both public and private sectors, observe a day off to celebrate their country.

For the younger populace who may be unaware, Nigeria attained independence from Britain on October 1st, 1960, which coincided with the period when many African nations under British colonialism also achieved their own liberation.

The late Abubakar Tafawa Balewa served as the Prime Minister who led the coalition government of the parliamentary system at the federal level.

The independence in 1960 was not a complete severance from British rule as the Queen remained the sovereign.

Nevertheless, three years subsequent, Nigeria was established as a republic.
In October 1963, this is why the country is referred to as the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the late Nnamdi Azikiwe became the nation’s inaugural President; thus, granting the country full sovereign rights.

Another significant point is that the term Nigeria is a constructed name attributed to Flora Shaw, who derived it from the Niger River.

Prior to receiving the name Nigeria, the country was officially known as the Royal Niger Company Territories; during this phase, Nigeria could be perceived as a commercial enterprise for the colonial powers.

With the 61st independence celebration unfolding today, Nigeria has evolved into the home of the largest black population globally and one of the most significant markets in Africa.