As Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary, poet, writer and minister Noah Ademola Adejare has called for stronger governance, improved infrastructure, greater security and a more equitable society where ordinary Nigerians can thrive.
Adejare made the call on 30 September 2026 in Lugbe, Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, while reflecting on Nigeria’s progress and challenges since independence.
Reacting to the state of the nation, Adejare said his assessment was one of “mixed reaction,” arguing that Nigeria, given its history, population and resources, should be performing better than it currently is.
According to him, Nigeria has fallen behind some countries that previously appeared less economically developed, particularly in areas such as infrastructure, currency strength and the welfare of citizens.
He cited Ghana and South Africa as examples, noting that Nigeria’s economic position and the value of the naira have changed considerably over the years.
Adejare also identified corruption as one of the major factors affecting Nigeria’s development and international image. He expressed concern over allegations of public funds being misappropriated and said corruption involving individuals in positions of authority had contributed to the country’s difficulties.
However, he stressed that Nigeria’s challenges should not obscure the country’s achievements.
He pointed to the country’s accomplishments in sports, particularly the recent performances of the women’s national football team, as evidence that Nigerians continue to excel despite the difficulties confronting the country.
“Nigeria can be better,” Adejare said, stressing that his criticism was not intended to suggest that the country had achieved nothing, but that its performance should be measured against its history, potential and the progress of comparable countries.
Insecurity and the “Japa” phenomenon
Adejare also expressed concern over the worsening insecurity in parts of the country, including kidnapping and other violent crimes.
He linked the security situation to the growing “Japa” phenomenon, through which Nigerians, particularly young professionals, leave the country in search of better opportunities abroad.
According to him, the continued departure of professionals is contributing to a serious brain-drain problem.
He particularly referenced Nigerian doctors and nurses working or seeking opportunities in countries such as the United Kingdom, United States, Canada and Australia.
He questioned what would happen to Nigeria if a significant proportion of its skilled professionals continued to leave.
Adejare argued that while financial resources are important, money alone cannot guarantee a country’s long-term development if its human capital continues to leave.
“Nigerians are not asking for too much”
The poet said the average Nigerian is primarily asking for basic conditions that would make it possible to live and work with dignity.
Among these, he identified reliable electricity, affordable transportation, security and an enabling economic environment.
He argued that even a consistent supply of electricity sufficient for small businesses, artisans and households to operate would make a significant difference to ordinary citizens.
He also expressed concern about the impact of fuel prices and the broader cost of living on Nigerians, saying economic policies ultimately affect the ordinary citizen most directly.
According to him, Nigerians are “hustlers” who are capable of succeeding when given the opportunity and a supportive environment.
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A call for a more equal Nigeria
One of the central themes of Adejare’s message was the need for greater social equality.
He recalled an earlier period when, in his view, there was a stronger sense of a level playing field in education and opportunities, with children from different socioeconomic backgrounds able to attend the same institutions.
He said Nigeria should work towards restoring an environment in which an individual from an ordinary background can compete and succeed alongside people from wealthy families.
“What I’m asking for right now is a Nigerian that is fair for every common man to thrive,” he said.
Adejare said such an environment would allow “a nobody” to become “somebody,” arguing that this should be one of the country’s fundamental aspirations.
He called on government to put the appropriate policies and structures in place while also acknowledging the importance of faith and spirituality in Nigerian society.
Hope for Nigeria at 66
Despite his criticism of the country’s challenges, Adejare ended his message on a hopeful note.
He said Nigeria could still become a better country if government, citizens and other stakeholders worked together to address the country’s fundamental problems.
He expressed hope that Nigeria would eventually live up to its long-standing description as the “Giant of Africa.”
Adejare, who described himself as a poet, writer and minister, wished Nigeria a happy 66th anniversary and expressed hope for “better days ahead,” saying he looked forward to a better tomorrow for the country.
“Happy 66th birthday to Nigeria,” he said, while calling for a fairer, safer and more enabling country for all Nigerians.
