Nigeria Independence Day 2023: Independence Day in Nigeria is on October 1. It commemorates the 1960 declaration of independence from British control. The government of Nigeria annually observes this holiday. The festivities commence with the President’s address to the public, which is broadcast on radio and television. This day is celebrated by the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police Force, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the workforce, and the national education services. On this day, offices and markets will be closed, and citizens will dress in green and white to celebrate. Additionally, elementary and secondary schools execute a parade in various state capitals and local government districts.
DAY OF THE HISTORY OF NIGERIA’S INDEPENDENCE
In 1917, the Southern Nigeria Protectorate and the Northern Nigeria Protectorate were merged to form the Colony and Protectorate of Nigeria. This is what we now refer to as contemporary Nigeria.
In 1950, the British Empire began to decline, and African territories demanded independence. This resulted in Nigeria’s independence from Britain on October 1, 1960, and its transformation into the Federation of Nigeria. A new constitution with an elected prime minister and a ceremonial chief of state was established. The first President was Nnamdi Azikiwe, who was previously the Governor-General. Since 1957, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa continued to serve as the country’s prime minister.
In October 1961, the Southern Cameroons merged with the Republic of Cameroon to create the Federal Republic of Cameroon. On October 1, 1963, Nigeria became a republic with Azikiwe serving as its first president.
Ethnic competition, educational disparity, and economic imbalance all contributed to regional tensions. To combat this the Mid-Western region was created in August 1963 but the country was still divided into three distinct geographic regions, each controlled by an ethnic group: the west by the Yoruba, the east by the Igbo, and the north by the Hausa-Fulani.
The October 1965 fraudulent election precipitated the disintegration of order in the West. In January 1966, a group of army officers attempted to overthrow the federal government, which resulted in the deaths of Prime Minister Balewa and two regional premiers. General-major Johnson Aguiri-Ironsi established a military administration. He intended to abolish the regions and establish a unified government, but anti-Igbo unrest broke out in the north in response. The military intervention exacerbated the political situation as the army divided along ethnic lines. The instigators and leaders of the January rebellion were accused of favoring Igbo dominance when officers clashed over power.
After many failed attempts to save the country in July 1967, civil conflict broke out. It lasted from 6 July 1967 until 15 January 1970.
World Vegetarian Day 2023: Importance, Activities, and Dates
International Coffee Day 2023: History, Activities, FAQs and Dates
Thunderbirds Day 2023: History, Dates, FAQs And Activity
FAQs about NIGERIA INDEPENDENCE DAY
When did Nigeria become an independent nation?
The Federation of Nigeria was granted complete independence on October 1, 1960.
How long has Nigeria been a colony?
From 1914 to 1954, the Colony and Protectorate of Nigeria were colonized, and from 1954 to 1960, the Federation of Nigeria was colonized.
Who gave her the moniker Nigeria?
Flora Shaw, a journalist, suggested the moniker Nigeria.
HOW TO CELEBRATE NIGERIA’S DAY OF INDEPENDENCE
Wear white and green
Celebrate with green and white attire. If you don’t have any clothing in those colors, wear the flag.
Host a festivity
Plan a party and invite your peers to celebrate with you. The day can be spent listening to traditional music and partying.
Prepare an authentic Nigerian dish
Celebrate by preparing traditional Nigerian cuisine. Why not sample some of Nigeria’s renowned delicacies today?
NIGERIA INDEPENDENCE DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | October 1 | Sunday |
| 2024 | October 1 | Tuesday |
| 2025 | October 1 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | October 1 | Thursday |
| 2027 | October 1 | Friday |
