As Nigeria marks its 64th Independence Day, residents of Bauchi State have expressed mixed feelings about the nation’s journey, highlighting both achievements and setbacks while pondering the wayforward for the country.
Comrade Abdullahi Yalwa, Ph.D, a public analyst and senior lecturer at Abubakar Tatari Ali Polytechnic (ATAP), Bauchi, while speaking to our correspondent, described the 64-year milestone as a significant achievement, noting, “To reach 64 years as a nation is an accomplishment, especially considering the many efforts that have been made to divide the country over the years.”
He emphasised that many Nigerians have paid the ultimate price to maintain the nation’s unity. However, he expressed concerns about the current state of democracy. “The democracy we practice today appears to be holding the nation back, serving interests other than those of the people it’s supposed to benefit,” he said.
Yalwa highlighted concerns about Nigeria’s developmental trajectory, lamenting the nation’s inability to make progress despite efforts by previous administrations. “From the First Republic’s efforts in building Nigeria to the contributions of military rulers, one wonders how we have arrived at this point,” he stated.
He pointed out that since 1999, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) has operated without a single functional refinery, yet staff members continue to be paid. “We have Nigerian Airways without aircraft, and our railway system has lost even the basic locomotive rail lines,” he said, adding that the country has yet to make meaningful progress in power generation and transmission.
The analyst also highlighted the Ajaokuta Steel Rolling Mill as a prime example of wasted potential. “While it remains a white elephant project, its counterpart in India has progressed to supply us with tricycles, motorcycles, and even military trucks,” he noted. According to him, the decline of Nigeria’s once-thriving textile industry, cotton ginneries, and automobile assembly plants are also worrisome.
The analyst didn’t hold back in criticising the nation’s leadership. “Our leaders lack the desired focus and quality needed for effective leadership,” he asserted. “The best among us are often overshadowed by the worst, and instead of celebrating, we should reflect on the missing links and sincerely make necessary adjustments.”
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He stressed the importance of reviewing Nigeria’s laws and governance structure while addressing corruption at all levels. “If we are to make any serious progress, we must elect leaders with clean records who are focused on serving the people, rather than choosing them based on personal gains during elections,” he advised.
Adding his voice, legal practitioner, Barrister Jibrin S. Jibrin, Esq., shared a similar sentiment, describing Nigeria’s journey as a mix of “hard, bad, and good times.” He acknowledged the country’s vast potential, stating, “Nigeria is a potentially great nation, blessed with human and natural resources. Unfortunately, we are still far from realizing that potential.”
Barrister Jibrin identified Nigeria’s greatest asset as its human and natural resources, which have remained intact despite numerous challenges. “The fact that we still have these resources and have even made strides in some sectors offers hope and gratitude,” he said.
He urged Nigerians to use this milestone as an opportunity for introspection and change. “The 64th anniversary should prompt a period of sober reflection, self-assessment, and a commitment to change our relationship with the country going forward,” he suggested.
The legal expert emphasised the need for collective responsibility, urging both leaders and citizens to accept their share of the blame for Nigeria’s current state. “We all need to change our attitudes and work together to bring about the Nigeria we want to see,” he said.
Jibrin concluded on a hopeful note, saying, “Above all, we thank Almighty Allah for sustaining the nation at 64, and we hope our youth will take a leading role in making Nigeria a country that truly thrives. God bless Nigeria.”
As Nigeria reflects on its 64th Independence Day, it’s evident that the road ahead requires unity, purposeful leadership, and an unwavering commitment to progress.
