Nigeria at 64: Celebrating Independence Amid Economic Hardship

By Aminu Adamu*

As Nigeria marks its 64th Independence Anniversary, the question that looms in the minds of many Nigerians is: What are we truly celebrating? For a country once hailed as the "Giant of Africa," the pride of independence has been overshadowed by the harsh realities of daily living. The Tinubu administration, still in its infancy, faces mounting criticism as the cost of living spirals out of control, with many Nigerians struggling to survive.

This year, on October 1st, there is little jubilation in the air, and many wonder if independence is even worth celebrating. In a country where food has become a luxury, fuel prices have skyrocketed, and hope is fast fading, it begs the question: Do Nigeria's leaders understand the plight of the average Nigerian?

The Price of Food and Hunger in the Land

Nigeria's food crisis is a ticking time bomb, and the skyrocketing cost of basic necessities reflects the nation's economic decline. A trip to the market today is a painful reminder of how far things have fallen. Staples like rice, beans, and garri have seen price hikes so steep that many families can no longer afford them. For a large portion of the population, three square meals a day is no longer a given—it is now a privilege.

Farmers, who should be the backbone of Nigeria’s agricultural economy, face severe challenges. Insecurity in the form of banditry and herdsmen conflicts in agricultural regions has made farming increasingly dangerous. This disruption in the food supply chain only adds to the problem, leaving markets empty or selling goods at inflated prices.

For many Nigerians, it’s a choice between feeding their families and other basic necessities like rent or transportation. With inflation soaring, there’s no relief in sight. Food insecurity has spread like wildfire, leaving millions at risk of malnutrition and hunger. For those at the top, this may seem like a distant issue, but for the average Nigerian, it’s a matter of survival.

Fuel Prices: A Thorn in the Flesh

One of the most glaring symbols of Nigeria’s economic crisis is the price of petrol, which has now surged above 1000 Naira per liter. This spike is a direct consequence of the subsidy removal under the Tinubu administration—a move that, while seen by some economists as necessary for long-term economic stability, has caused immediate hardship for the masses.

The removal of fuel subsidies without an effective social welfare cushion has left Nigerians reeling. Transport costs have doubled or tripled, and with a population heavily reliant on petrol for their daily activities, the impact has been severe. Small businesses, the lifeblood of Nigeria’s economy, are struggling to survive as they can no longer afford the cost of fueling generators amidst constant power outages. For many, closing shop has become inevitable.

While government officials argue that the subsidy removal will free up funds for other developmental projects, the immediate suffering it has caused is undeniable. The question remains: Was there a better way to implement such a policy without crippling the poor?

Cost of Living: A Daily Struggle

The ripple effects of rising fuel prices and food costs have led to an astronomical increase in the cost of living. In 2023, the inflation rate in Nigeria reached alarming levels, pushing more Nigerians below the poverty line. Basic amenities such as healthcare, housing, and education are slipping out of the reach of the common man.

Parents are pulling their children out of schools because they cannot afford tuition fees, and health care services have become a luxury. Public hospitals are overcrowded and under-resourced, leaving the sick to fend for themselves. Housing in urban centers has become unaffordable, with rent prices skyrocketing in cities like Lagos and Abuja. For many, the dream of owning a home is now a distant fantasy.

It is a paradox that in a country so rich in natural resources, poverty is so rampant. The disconnect between Nigeria’s potential wealth and the lived experience of its citizens is a glaring indictment of leadership across generations. As ordinary citizens face increasing hardship, the elite remain largely insulated from the economic shocks. This disparity fuels growing anger and frustration among the populace.

Leadership and the Disconnect from the People

At the heart of Nigeria’s crisis is a leadership that seems disconnected from the realities of the average Nigerian. While government officials continue to earn salaries and benefits far above what most citizens can even dream of, the masses are left to bear the brunt of bad policies and economic mismanagement.

Do Nigeria's leaders truly understand what the average citizen is going through? Judging by the lavish lifestyles many of them lead, the answer seems to be no. The growing gap between the ruling class and the common man has created an environment of distrust and resentment. As long as those in power remain insulated from the everyday struggles of their citizens, meaningful change will remain elusive.

It’s easy for politicians to make promises, but delivering on them requires empathy, foresight, and a genuine commitment to serving the people. Nigerians are not asking for handouts—they are asking for policies that reflect their realities and improve their standard of living. Unfortunately, the current administration, like many before it, appears out of touch with these basic expectations.

The Question of Independence: Is It Worth Celebrating?

In light of all these challenges, it’s hard to see what there is to celebrate on this Independence Day. When Nigeria gained its freedom from British colonial rule 64 years ago, there was hope for a brighter future, a future where Nigerians would enjoy the benefits of their country’s abundant resources. Today, that dream seems far from reality.

Instead of celebrating freedom, many Nigerians feel trapped—trapped in a cycle of poverty, corruption, and mismanagement. The promises of independence have not been fulfilled, and the ideals of democracy seem distant when citizens are not enjoying the basic necessities of life.

That being said, independence is still a significant milestone. It represents the freedom of a people to govern themselves and shape their own destiny. However, true independence goes beyond the political act of breaking free from colonial rule. It is about empowering citizens, improving their quality of life, and ensuring that every Nigerian can live with dignity. In that sense, the fight for independence continues.

Where Do We Go from Here?

The road ahead is not easy, but it is not without hope. Nigeria is a country with immense potential, and its people have shown time and time again that they are resilient. However, resilience alone cannot solve the problems at hand. What Nigeria needs is visionary leadership—leaders who not only understand the challenges but are willing to make the tough decisions needed to turn the tide.

The Tinubu administration, still in its early days, has the opportunity to shift course and address these urgent issues. Policies that focus on economic stability, security, and job creation must be prioritized. There must be a concerted effort to bridge the gap between the government and the people, ensuring that future policies are inclusive and reflective of the needs of the average Nigerian.

Nigerians themselves must also remain engaged in the political process. Holding leaders accountable, demanding transparency, and actively participating in governance are crucial steps in ensuring that the future is brighter than the past.

As Nigeria marks its 64th year of independence, the challenges are clear, but so is the potential for change. While the celebration may be muted, it should serve as a reminder that the journey is far from over. The question is no longer just about whether independence is worth celebrating; it is about what each Nigerian can do to ensure that the future is worth fighting for.

* Aminu Adamu is a Sociologist, Freelance Journalist from Nigeria