Independence Day (Nigeria)
Independence Day is observed nationwide through official ceremonies including military parades and flag-raising events, alongside traditional dances and cultural celebrations—a pattern mirrored by Nigerian communities abroad who mark the holiday by celebrating their heritage.
[4] By the 1940s, nationalist efforts intensified, prompting the British to introduce reforms such as the Richards Constitution of 1946, which created regional assemblies and expanded Nigerian representation in governance.
[7][8] Political parties such as the National Council of Nigeria and the Cameroons, under the leadership of Nnamdi Azikiwe, and the Action Group, led by Obafemi Awolowo, emerged as representatives of regional and ethnic interests while advocating for independence.
[11][1] Following the 1959 federal election, in which the Northern People's Congress became the single largest party, a coalition government was formed with Abubakar Tafawa Balewa as prime minister, paving the way for independence.
[12] The independence ceremony in Lagos featured international dignitaries, including Princess Alexandra of Kent, who presented constitutional documents on behalf of Queen Elizabeth II.
[15] In his Independence Day address, Prime Minister Balewa reflected on the significance of self-governance and outlined Nigeria's role in global affairs, committing the nation to peaceful diplomacy and cooperation within the Commonwealth.
[19][16] In the United States, Independence Day celebrations have been held annually in New York City since 1991, featuring parades, music, dance, and traditional cuisine.
On 1 October 1967, during Nigeria's seventh Independence Day, Yakubu Gowon delivered a speech emphasising national unity amidst the ongoing Nigerian Civil War.
[29][25] In his 1986 address, Babangida discussed plans for self-reliance, economic liberalisation, and structural reforms, but public dissatisfaction grew due to the SAP's effects, including inflation and unemployment.
[31] On 26 September 1992, a Nigerian Air Force C-130 Hercules transport plane crashed shortly after takeoff from Lagos, killing approximately 160 passengers, including military officers and foreign dignitaries.
President Ibrahim Babangida cancelled all scheduled Independence Day events, including the customary presidential address and military parade, as a mark of respect.
During the 2016 economic recession, President Muhammadu Buhari used his Independence Day speech to acknowledge the struggles facing Nigerians, urging resilience and emphasising the government's commitment to tackling unemployment, inflation, and insecurity.
