For those who witnessed the joy and celebration that welcomed October 1, 1960, when the British Union Jack was lowered to pave way for Nigeria’s green and white flag, the story of the freedom from perceived tyranny of the colonial masters and the celebration fever that gripped the entire nation, remain fresh in their memories.
For the 50th anniversary, which is a landmark in the history of any nation, adequate preparations were made, with a month-long activities lined up for the Golden Jubilee celebration of the ‘Giant of Africa.’
“This is an avenue for stock-taking and re-appraisal of both the nation's failures and successes, with a view to improve on where mistakes have been made,” President Goodluck Jonathan said recently during his visit to Lagos.
Oh yes, the story of Nigeria is that of bitter-sweet memories, especially for the older generation, who witness the smooth and promising take off of a nation saddled by the likes late Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Alhaji Ahmadu Bello, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Belewa and a host of other statesmen, most of whom had joined their ancestors, who fought for this freedom.
Regrettably, 50 years after, Nigeria is still struggling to have steady power supply, motorable roads, potable water, basic infrastructure, quality educational system, healthcare delivery and generally good governance.
With the billions of naira budget for the anniversary celebration expended and politicians campaigning from East to West, North to South over who becomes the new president of the most populous black country, Nigerian youths are already looking into the next 50 years of Nigeria, when most of them will be in their 70s, 80s and above.
Is it going to be the same sweet-bitter experience? Are we going to see a better Nigeria in the next 50 years to come? Is this generation going to bring about the Nigeria of our dream? Well, all these questions and more will surely be answered in few years to come.
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