Nigeria has indeed come a long way from being a nation with just over forty-five million people in 1960 to one that is now brimming with a massive population size of 190 million. The nation has seen huge growth in the number of citizens it accommodates but this has not really translated into measurable progress in terms of development. It has been many steps backward with regards to the economy as well as the polity of the state.

The reason is not however far-fetched when one considers the level of misadministration [of human and natural resources] that have befallen our beloved nation. And surely, it is not inappropriate to point a finger [of accusation] at the ever-present cankerworm [as empowered by its vitalizer] that has bury itself deep into the fabric of the nation since years gone by – corruption is the tag we have given it and it remains a great menace to national development.

But while some of us may feel the situation is irredeemable, and with the ‘power-grabbers’ making it appear as though the labour of our heroes will end up in vain, our beloved Nigeria is still looking to you and I for her survival.

Today marks our 58th year as an independent nation, and going by the mood on the streets, there seems to be no reason to celebrate – quite understandable you mat say. Notwithstanding, the fact that the nation is still standing amidst the ills she has been [and is still being] subjected to, should give us a reason to be thankful for this very moment.

Though there may be ‘gold-diggers’ within the coffers of power that are bent on sucking the nation’s wealth dry…though the sacredness of life may be lost in the consciousness of some malevolent individuals; Nigeria is far from being over.

And while we are thankful, there is a need for us to make a resolve to stand up and be counted as being a critical part of the change that Nigeria longs for. A change that sheds light – no matter how little – unto the dark path around you. A change that disregards partisanship in favour of nationalism in order to ensure that the goods of the land are left within the reserves of some ‘anointed’ few.

We may not have the Nigeria of our dream yet and though the hope of having one may seem dashed, we have got to stand strong – not against one another but against the forces that are out on putting us apart.

Technically, we are free from our colonial master but the ultimate independent Nigeria is yearning for will only come when those within her bound start living for her goodness. There is still much to desire if only we look inward and make concerted efforts to right the wrongs of the past. Rescuing Nigeria from the abyss is a good fight we need to undertake and that should begin from this very day.

Nigeria needs YOU!