Nigeria@65,a Nation Reflects:Voices Call for Renewal, Responsibility, and Rebirth.
By Raymond Enoch
Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary took on renewed significance on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, as the Nigeria First Foundation hosted a landmark gathering in Abuja. The event brought together political leaders, civil society actors, diaspora representatives, and cultural figures with a unified goal: to celebrate the country’s journey so far while calling for renewed patriotism, ethical leadership, and inclusive nation-building.
In his opening remarks, Comrade Vik-Morrow Ulo, Speaker of the Nigeria First Foundation, described the occasion not merely as a celebration, but as a starting point for building a lasting national legacy. He urged Nigerians both at home and abroad to align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s vision for national self-reliance and grassroots development, stressing the importance of believing in the nation’s potential and creating opportunities that reflect its greatness.
The event served as a platform for frank reflection on Nigeria’s democratic journey, particularly the challenges of gender inclusion and governance. Ambassador Lucy Fadumila, FCT Coordinator on Special Needs for the Foundation, passionately advocated for greater representation of women in leadership. She argued that after 65 years of independence, Nigerian women must no longer be left on the sidelines of national development. Supporting her stance, Dr. Chinwe Nnorom, National Publicity Secretary of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), warned that patriarchy remains a major barrier to progress, insisting that women must be present where key decisions are made.
Diaspora voices also featured prominently, bringing fresh perspectives and a renewed call for patriotic engagement. Speaking from Australia, Ambassador Obinna Ejiaya lamented the declining spirit of patriotism among Nigerians and called for personal sacrifice and commitment to national growth. He shared his own example of returning home to establish businesses aimed at creating employment for Nigerian youths. He urged leaders to lead with sincerity and purpose.
Also speaking on the need for diaspora involvement, HRH Chief Amina Temitope Ajayi, President of Nigerians in Diaspora, appealed to Nigerians living abroad to invest in the country and contribute to its development. She emphasized that only Nigerians can build Nigeria, calling on the diaspora community to look back home and help create a nation future generations would be proud of.
In a deeply reflective moment, Mrs. Sarah Jibril, former presidential aspirant and former Special Adviser on Ethics and Values to President Goodluck Jonathan, called for a national moral rebirth. She asserted that at 65, Nigeria is old enough to distinguish right from wrong and must now rebuild its dignity through ethical leadership, trust, and peace.
The event also featured goodwill messages from notable figures including former Akwa Ibom State Governor Obong Victor Attah and Dr. Olubunmi Usim-Wilson, who joined virtually. Both urged citizens to maintain hope and continue working toward unity and peaceful coexistence. The celebration concluded with colorful cultural performances that showcased Nigeria’s rich heritage, resilience, and enduring spirit.
As Nigeria moves into its 66th year of independence, the message from the Nigeria First Foundation was clear and resonant: unity, patriotism, gender inclusion, and principled leadership remain the foundational pillars on which a truly great nation must be built.
