The Creativity Site

  By Victor Olubiye Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary on October 1, 2026, but many details about how the country became independent are often reduced to a few familiar names and the lowering of the Union Jack. Nigeria became independent from Britain on October 1, 1960, under a parliamentary system of government. Abubakar Tafawa Balewa was Prime Minister, while Nnamdi Azikiwe became Governor-General. Beyond the date and the celebrations, there are other details about Nigeria's independence that are less commonly discussed. Here are 10 of them. 1. Nigeria did not become a republic on October 1, 1960 Independence and becoming a republic were two different events. Nigeria became independent on October 1, 1960, but remained a constitutional monarchy within the Commonwealth. The Queen was still the head of state, represented in Nigeria by the Governor-General. Nigeria became a republic in October 1963, when Nnamdi Azikiwe became the country's first President. 2. Tafawa ...

By Victor Olubiye October 1 is not only Nigeria’s Independence Day. It is also the beginning of another month, giving Nigerians another opportunity to look at what they have achieved so far in 2026 and what they still want to accomplish before the year ends. But beyond the celebrations, October can also be a month to make practical changes. With three months left in the year, here are 10 things Nigerians can consider doing differently this October. 1. Review the goals you set at the beginning of the year Many people started 2026 with plans but may have forgotten some of them along the way. October is a good time to look back at those plans. What has been achieved? What is still possible before December? Which goals should be adjusted? A simple review can help separate what still deserves attention from what no longer fits the current situation. 2. Take your personal finances more seriously October can also be a good point to check how money has been spent since January. Review your reg...

By Samuel Ashiwel On October 1, 1960, Nigeria was born with promise. The Union Jack was lowered, the Green-White-Green was hoisted, and the world looked at Africa's most populous nation as the Black man's great hope. We were a nation with resources, intellect, and resilient people. Sixty-six years later, as we mark another Independence anniversary, it is a time for sober reflection, not just celebration. We must ask ourselves: How far have we truly come from that starting point in 1960, and how much longer is the journey to the Nigeria of our dreams? THE POLITICAL JOURNEY: FROM NATIONALISTS TO CAREERISTS Politically, we have travelled a long and winding road. From the parliamentary system of the First Republic led by nationalists who debated ideology and development, we descended into military coups, a 30-month civil war, and 29 years of military dictatorship that eroded our institutions. Since 1999, we have enjoyed 27 years of unbroken civil rule - the longest in our history. ...