The name Nigeria is gotten from the great River Niger about 94 years ago. She was named by the wife of Sir frderick Lugard the then Colonial Governor General.
Nigeria came out of the Shackles of Colonialism on the 1st of October 1960 from the hands of Britain.
A country richer in Natural resources than the whole of Europe put together held so much promise at the time of Independence.
Forty Nine years down the line most of these promises are far from being achieved.
The country is facing great challenges in credible leadership and certain infrastructural development.
However, her greatest acheivement is that the country has remained one indivisible entity inspite of the bitter civil war of 1967-1970 and other threats of secession and pockets of ethnic and religious crisis.
I find it difficult some times to place My country among other nations. I am not sure wether to describe her either as a rich or poor country. Perhaps she can best be described as a RICH COUNTRY WITH POOR PEOPLE. Her wealth has not impacted much on the life of her people.
I am only sure of one thing;her people are intellectually enterprising, hardworking, peacefull, heart warming, religious and honest.
As we celebrate her birthday, I pray and also beleive that some day she will rise to her greatness and take her proper place among the comity of nations.
How soon will my prayer and belief come to pass? I dont know, may be not during my life time. But The important thing is: the March towards a greater and prosperous Nigeria has begun and I am a part of this process.
GOD BLESS THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA- AMEN