Nigeria’s independence on October 1, 1960, marked a significant moment in its history. Here are 63 remarkable things about Nigeria at independence:

1. British Colony: Nigeria gained independence from British colonial rule.

2. First Prime Minister: Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa became the first Prime Minister.

3. Constitutional Monarchy: Nigeria adopted a parliamentary system with a constitutional monarchy.

4. Queen Elizabeth II: Queen Elizabeth II was the monarch at the time.

5. Federal Structure: Nigeria established a federal system of government.

6. Three Regions: Nigeria was divided into three regions: Northern, Western, and Eastern.

7. Parliamentary Democracy: Nigeria’s government followed a parliamentary democracy.

8. Flag: Nigeria’s flag featured two green stripes and a white stripe in the middle.

9. National Anthem: “Nigeria, We Hail Thee” was the national anthem.

10. National Motto: “Unity and Faith, Peace and Progress.”

11. Common Law: Nigeria adopted the British common law legal system.

12. Official Language: English became the official language.

13. Education: The country invested in education, with universities and colleges established.

14. Infrastructure: Development of roads, railways, and other infrastructure began.

15. Agriculture: Agriculture was a vital sector of the economy.

16. Cocoa Production: Nigeria was a leading cocoa producer.

17. Export of Resources: Nigeria exported palm oil, groundnuts, and rubber.

18. Oil Discovery: Commercial oil production started in the Niger Delta region.

19. Population: Nigeria’s population was around 45 million at independence.

20. Diverse Ethnic Groups: Nigeria was home to numerous ethnic groups.

21. Cultural Diversity: A rich cultural heritage with diverse traditions.

22. Nnamdi Azikiwe: He was the first President of Nigeria.

23. Ahmadu Bello: A prominent leader in the Northern Region.

24. Obafemi Awolowo: A key figure in the Western Region.

25. Civil Service: A well-structured civil service was established.

26. Lagos Capital: Lagos was the capital city.

27. Newspapers: Newspapers like “The Daily Times” were influential.

28. Currency: Nigerian Pound was the official currency.

29. Independence Celebrations: Festive celebrations marked the day.

30. Diplomatic Relations: Nigeria established diplomatic ties with many nations.

31. National Symbols: Development of national symbols like the coat of arms.

32. Foreign Aid: Nigeria received foreign aid for development.

33. UN Membership: Nigeria joined the United Nations.

34. Nigerian Air Force:
Formation of the Nigerian Air Force.

35. Nigerian Navy: Establishment of the Nigerian Navy.

36. Federal Elections: First federal elections were held in 1959.

37. House of Representatives: Formation of the House of Representatives.

38. Independence Act: The Nigeria Independence Act of 1960.

39. Constitution: The 1960 constitution defined the new nation.

40. Peaceful Transition: Independence was achieved peacefully.

41. Pan-Africanism: Nigeria played a role in Pan-African movements.

42. African Unity: Advocated for African unity and independence.

43. Cold War Era: Nigeria navigated global politics during the Cold War.

44. Non-Aligned Movement: Nigeria pursued a non-aligned foreign policy.

45. Commonwealth: Nigeria joined the British Commonwealth.

46. Women’s Rights: Efforts towards women’s rights and empowerment.

47. Infrastructure Projects: Initiated major infrastructure projects.

48. Telecommunications: Expansion of telecommunications services.

49. Industrialization: Promoted industrialization efforts.

50. Youth Empowerment: Initiatives for youth development.

51. National Parks: Creation of national parks and wildlife reserves.

52. Export Diversification: Efforts to diversify exports.

53. Nationalization: Some industries were nationalized.

54. Independence Day Parade: A grand parade in Lagos.

55. Indigenous Leaders: Emergence of indigenous leaders.

56. Foreign Policy: Engagement in international diplomacy.

57. Pan-Africanism: Influential role in Pan-African movements.

58. African Union: Nigeria’s involvement in the African Union.

59. Economic Growth: Positive economic prospects.

60. Regional Cooperation: Encouraged regional cooperation.

61. Educational Expansion: Increased access to education.

62. Health Services: Expansion of healthcare services.

63. Hopes for the Future: A nation full of hope for the future.

These 63 aspects reflect Nigeria’s complex and diverse history at the time of its independence.

• Sodiq Lawal