As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence Anniversary on October1, 2025, contrasting messages emerged from key political voices and advocacy groups, capturing the complex state of the nation — a blend of enduring hope and harsh realities.
Former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, used the occasion to issue a scathing critique of the current administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accusing the All Progressives Congress (APC) of presiding over what he described as an era of “economic strangulation” and “dangerous hopelessness.”
In a statement released by his media office, Atiku praised the “uncommon patience, endurance, and resilience” of Nigerians, many of whom he said are surviving in a nation weighed down by insecurity, food scarcity, mass unemployment, and rising poverty. He blamed the APC-led government for what he called an abandonment of its core duty to protect and provide for its citizens.
“It is tragic,” Atiku said, “that in a country blessed with immense human and material resources, millions of our people have been reduced to refugees and beggars in their fatherland.” He further accused President Tinubu’s administration of standing “unmoved and uncaring” as hunger and violence claim lives daily.
However, in a more optimistic tone, the Northern Nigeria Minorities Group (NNMG) offered a message of unity and hope, describing the 65th Independence Anniversary as an opportunity to reflect on Nigeria’s resilience and shared future.
The NNMG, led by Chief Jacob Edi, commended Nigerians for standing firm over the decades despite immense challenges. “Our unity and resolve to remain as one indivisible nation have been tested repeatedly. We remain solid and unwavered,” the statement read.
In sharp contrast to Atiku’s condemnation of the Tinubu government, the NNMG lauded the President’s “courage and vision,” crediting his policies as “a testament to statesmanship” and evidence of his commitment to Nigeria’s long-term survival and stability. The group urged citizens to remain purpose-driven and renew their faith in the Nigerian project.
Despite the divergent perspectives, both messages converge on one point: the resilience of the Nigerian people. Whether through critique or commendation, the underlying message is that Nigeria’s journey — though fraught with trials — is far from over. For Atiku, the path forward lies in political change at the ballot box in 2027. For NNMG, progress depends on unity, leadership, and shared responsibility.
As the nation commemorates 65 years of independence, the conversation around its future remains as complex and contested as ever — a reflection of both its challenges and its enduring hope.
