Today marks my country’s 54th year of getting it’s independence from our colonial masters. Nigeria, a newly created country comprised a multiplicity of diverse ethnic groups which have generated complex systems of government.
The aim of the British masters was targeted at welding together these groups and territories, with diversity of culture at different stages of growth and development into a nation. In the process, the British Administration became aware of the historical diversity and uniqueness of the country. This attracted their respect for the country’s culture and tradition even as they disregarded others.
The 1914 amalgamation was not just a history, but a milestone and watershed in Nigerian record. Sequel to that, the present shape and size of Nigeria was carved out. It was a great beginning of a united and peculiar Nigeria. This was the very reason Binyavanga Wainaina opined that, “There is no country in the world with the diversity, confidence and talent and black pride like Nigeria.”
Despite the upheavals putting off the country’s light today, we must not let go the fact that Nigeria is answering the call of change and developmental stride in a rapid manner. The momentum of a brighter future of Nigeria of our dream has been gathered and we are already moving in that direction. Most often, we tend to tell the bad side of the story ignoring the good side of it. Hence, all we see is the evil, menace and the inhumane in the society.
The civil war must not be left out in this celebration, the experiences and lessons created made us who we really are today. The war had come and gone. The story of the war and what led to it has been told, is being told and will continue to be told. Though we have learnt our lesions in hard way, we hope and strongly believe that the past will not be ignored, but rather, it will be utilized effectively to avoid the mistakes of a grievous present.
I see a bright future in Nigeria; a powerful nation with well nourished citizens, beautiful smiling faces, peace in all nook and cranny and above all, a Nigeria bonded by love.
I am proud to be a black
I am proud to be a Nigerian
I am Nigeria.
Happy independence day Nigeria.
Acha Harrison
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