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The Oyo State Government is targeting an internally-generated revenue of ?100 billion by the end of 2025 financial year,making it sit comfortably as a leading financial hub in the country.

The present administration has increased IGR to ?65 billion in 2024, and as at July this year, it rises to ?58 billion just ?7 billion short of the 2024 total revenue gathered.

Dotun Oyelade, Commissioner for Information, who said the past administration struggled to reach the ?15 billion mark annually, stated that the ‘implication of the leap in the IGRs is that Oyo State will beat its own record by the end of this year with a target close to ?100 billion.

While confirming the report that since last year, Oyo State has been the best place to live in Nigeria based on quality of life, functional infrastructure, service delivery and security, reacted to a report by the State Performance Index (SPI), handled by a consultancy firm.

He said, ‘Obviously, the State’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), which has improved dramatically in the past few years, is being put to good and productive use for the benefit of the citizenry.

The Commissioner said that ‘unlike most sub-nationals and past administrations in Oyo State, IGR collection has been seamless and has not increased the burden on investors.

‘Rather, it has opened up the economy through agribusiness, infrastructure and tourism. This expansion of the economy, coupled with the ripple effect of consistent payment of ?14 5billion to over 130,000 workers monthly, has had a salutary effect on the increasing IGR of the state.

The Commissioner however revealed that the month of September ?15.4 billion was paid as salaries instead of the usual ?14.5 billion.

Another area of concentration of the Governor Seyi Makinde-led administration is healthcare, saying 264 primary healthcare centres have been upgraded and over 3,900 professionals recruited, which has significantly restored the healthcare system.

Oyelade recalled that during a courtesy call at the Governor’s Office two weeks ago,Celine Lafocriere, the UNICEF Country Representative said that UNICEF has had more engagements with Oyo State than any other state in Nigeria in the past two years.

The United States Embassy in Nigeria has reassured Nigerians that visa and passport services will continue to run despite the ongoing partial shutdown of the US government.

In a statement issued on Wednesday via its official X handle, the embassy explained that while its social media accounts would not be updated regularly during the funding lapse, essential consular services remain operational.

‘Due to the lapse in appropriations, this X account will not be updated regularly until full operations resume, except for urgent safety and security information.

At this time, scheduled passport and visa transit services in the United States and at U.S. Embassies and Consulates overseas will continue during the lapse in appropriations as the situation permits,’ the embassy stated. The clarification came after widespread concerns among Nigerians that the shutdown in Washington might disrupt visa processing, affect student travel, and delay other consular services.

The shutdown began after US lawmakers and President Donald Trump failed to reach a compromise on a federal budget deal. At the centre of the dispute is Democratic Party pressure for expanded healthcare funding, which Republicans have resisted. Trump, defending the shutdown, said the deadlock could help him cut back on Democratic-linked programmes.

While the shutdown will not affect critical services such as the military, postal operations, or welfare schemes like Social Security and food stamps, it is expected to place a heavy burden on federal workers.

The Congressional Budget Office estimates that as many as 750,000 federal employees may be sent home daily without pay until a funding agreement is reached.

This marks the first government shutdown since the record-breaking 35-day closure nearly seven years ago, also under Trump’s administration.

Since 1976, when the modern budget process was introduced, the US has experienced 21 shutdowns, most of which were resolved before causing widespread disruptions.

The embassy advised Nigerians to rely on official sources for consular information during the shutdown.

‘Nigerians are encouraged to visit travel.state.gov for the latest updates on visa appointments and passport processing,’ the notice added.

As Nigeria celebrates 65 years of independence, writer and social commentator Keem Abdul offers a timely reflection on leadership and democracy through two books that examine the country’s most recent presidents.

Together, the works provide a thoughtful look at the past and present, inviting Nigerians to consider the lessons of leadership as the nation charts its future.

In Scorched Earth: Anatomy of the Buhari Years (2015-2023), Abdul explores the life and presidency of Muhammadu Buhari, from his days as a military ruler to his two terms as a democratically elected president.

The book reflects on Buhari’s reputation for integrity, the challenges he faced while in office, and the lessons his leadership leaves behind.

Abdul writes: ‘The story of Buhari is the story of a man who became the symbol of integrity in Nigeria, but whose government eventually became a byword for competence tested by enormous national challenges.’ (p. 9)

He adds: ‘The Buhari years will be remembered not only for the change they promised, but for the lessons they leave behind for a country still seeking its democratic balance.’ (p. 313)

While Scorched Earth looks back, Abdul’s The King Maker: Chronicle of a Roller Coaster Life turns to the present. This volume follows Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s remarkable journey from his early years and career abroad, to his achievements as Governor of Lagos State, and his pivotal role in building political coalitions that led him to the presidency.

It highlights Tinubu’s resilience and strategic brilliance, while also addressing the controversies that have accompanied his career.

The book observes: ‘Tinubu’s genius lies not only in winning power for himself but in constructing platforms that made others possible.’ (p. 12) It concludes:

‘The question now before Nigerians is whether the skills that brought Tinubu to power are the same ones that can

rescue a fragile Republic.’ (p. 280)

Taken together, the two books form a companion study of leadership at a defining moment in Nigeria’s history.

Buhari’s years in office serve as a reflection on service and the weight of expectations, while Tinubu’s ongoing story raises questions about the future of governance and the meaning of political mastery in a young democracy.

Keem Abdul, the author of both works, is a Nigerian writer and social commentator who focuses on politics, governance, and society.

His books are not written in the language of praise or attack, but as chronicles that encourage Nigerians to reflect deeply on their leaders and on the

Republic itself.

Scorched Earth: Anatomy of the Buhari Years (2015-2023) and The King Maker: Chronicle of a Roller Coaster Life are both available on Mainstack and Selar.

The travel and tourism industry plays a major role in Nigeria’s economic development. In this interview with BusinessDay, IFEANYI EZEOKOLI, the MD/CEO, Incel Holidays and Tourism Limited, highlights the innovative ways Incel Holidays is redefining the tourism industry in Nigeria. Excerpts:

The tourism sector, to a very large extent, gives the state of health of the country. How has your experience been in Nigeria’s tourism sector, especially in the last 2 years?

The last two years have been both challenging and inspiring. On the challenging side, we have had to deal with rising costs in the industry from flights, visas, and even processing our local passports due to the exchange rates. I would also add that there are also infrastructure gaps and global travel restrictions that have reshaped customer expectations. Some years ago, you could travel to Dubai with N500,000 with flight, hotel, and visa inclusive; now N500,000 can barely cover return flights even to neighbouring Ghana.

But on the positive side, there has been a strong shift in interest towards other international destinations, including our very own domestic tourism. More Nigerians are realising that they don’t always have to go abroad to enjoy rich culture, scenery, and relaxation. Taking a cue from the last ‘Detty December’ in Lagos, seeing how Nigerians and foreigners trooped into Lagos to enjoy the excitement Lagos has to offer. That shift has kept the sector alive and given us hope for bigger opportunities ahead. Besides Lagos, we should remember Calabar Carnival, Obudu Resort, Ikogosi, and other interesting places within Nigeria.

More Nigerians are realising they don’t always have to go abroad to enjoy rich culture, scenery, and relaxation-Ezeokoli

What unique features stand your firm out in the nation’s holiday and tourism sector?

At Incel Holidays and Tourism Limited, we offer more than just travel planning. We provide complete solutions for our clients – end-to-end travel service, which includes affordable flights, smooth visa processing, hotel bookings, transfers, corporate travels, airport protocols, and guided tours. We have holiday packages designed to be fun-filled and convenient. Also, on request, we create bespoke holiday packages so our customers can focus on enjoying their trip while we take care of everything else. This ability to simplify travel for individuals, families, and corporate clients has helped us gain the trust of our customers over the years.

There are so many players in Nigeria’s tourism industry. How does your firm handle competition and disruptions in the industry?

Travel and tourism in Nigeria is a highly competitive space. However, we don’t approach it with fear. Instead, it pushes us to be innovative, go the extra mile to satisfy our customers while staying flexible.

When challenges come up-like changes in exchange rates, flight cancellations, or new rules-we adjust quickly. We negotiate new deals, look for new destinations, and keep open communication with our clients. This ability to adapt, along with our personal touch, helps us succeed in a very competitive industry.

The new government policies concerning exchange rates and subsidy removal created opportunities and new challenges. Could you please share your experience on how your firm tapped the opportunities and addressed the new challenges?

The policies definitely raised travel costs, but they also pushed us to think smarter. We leveraged stronger partnerships with airlines, other agencies, travel vendors, and hotel groups to secure discounted deals. We also expanded our domestic travel options, encouraging Nigerians to visit and see places in Nigeria. We have invested in reaching more customers around the world, using our Dubai branch as a key example. We are also using digital tools to provide our clients with more flexible payment options. While we faced challenges, these also gave us the opportunity to diversify and innovate. Nigeria will be 65 years old on October 1st. What message do you have for the country’s leaders at the federal and state levels?

At 65, Nigeria has much to celebrate, but we also need to look forward. I want our leaders to understand that tourism can be an integral part of our economy if we focus on it. Investing in infrastructure, safety, and promoting our destinations will attract foreign visitors and encourage Nigerians to explore their own country. If the government and private sector collaborate effectively, tourism can create as many jobs and contribute to the nations GDP as much as the oil and gas industry in the next ten years.

The Yuletide season is almost here and it is the time of the year customers expect a unique experience. Any special packages in the pipeline for your current and prospective clients?

Yes, this Christmas we have put together packages that give our clients something truly memorable. For those who want to explore closer to home, we are running a 7-DAY CHRISTMAS ADVENTURE ACROSS FOUR WEST AFRICAN CITIES, COTONOU, OUIDAH, LOMÉ, AND ACCRA.

It is a mix of history, culture, and fun, with stops at places like the Amazon Statue in the Republic of Benin, Casa del Papa resort, a Lomé boat cruise, and Accra’s Kwame Nkrumah Park. It promises to be a thrilling and relaxed road trip in a comfortable air-conditioned bus. The tour runs from 22nd – 28th December, 2025. This special offer allows clients to deposit only 30% by 15th October, and the balance due by 25th November, 2025.

For travellers looking further abroad, we have created a Singapore package that covers four nights of sightseeing, including Merlion Park, the famous Cable Car ride, and a guided tour of Scentopia. Everything from the visa to airport transfers and hotels will be handled by us thus making the trip stress-free. This valid from 1st September 2025 to 20th January 2026.

And for sports fans, December is extra special because of the AFCON 2025 in Morocco from Dec 21 to 31, 2025. Our Package takes you to three live Super Eagles matches, with 10 nights’ accommodation, tours, visa support with flights included.

Our Christmas package this year is different from the norm, as there are options that fit different target markets in the travel space. For those looking for a ONE-STOP travel partner this Yuletide season, Incel Tourism offers you everything from visa assistance and processing to flight tickets, hotel bookings and airport transfers. Our end-to-end solutions make your travel easy and stress-free. For bookings and further enquiries Call/WhatsApp 09113218885, 09113218886 or mail [email protected]

What is the outlook for the holiday and tourism sector in Nigeria?

The future is definitely bright for Nigeria’s tourism industry. Nigerians love to travel and experience new things. Aside from wanting to ‘JAPA’, more people are looking to build their travel history for either tourism or relocation to study or work. The Nigeria travel space has better online booking options and greater awareness of local attractions; the tourism sector is growing. If the government invests in the travel and tour industry and collaborates with private businesses, Nigeria’s tourism industry can become one of the strongest in Africa in the coming years.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that Nigeria’s armed forces are making decisive gains against insurgents, separatist groups and criminal gangs, insisting the country is ‘winning the war against terrorism, banditry and other violent crimes.’

In his Independence Day broadcast on Wednesday, the President praised the sacrifices of security personnel and said their efforts had brought peace back to swathes of the country that were once under threat.

‘They are winning the war against terrorism, banditry and other violent crimes,’ Tinubu told Nigerians. ‘We see their victories in their blood and sweat to stamp out Boko Haram terror in the North-East, IPOB/ESN terror in the South-East and banditry and kidnapping. We must continue to celebrate their gallantry and salute their courage on behalf of a grateful nation.’

According to him, peace has returned to ‘hundreds of liberated communities’ in the North-West and North-East, allowing thousands of displaced people to return home. He added that security improvements were already strengthening the economy by creating a safer environment for farming, investment and trade.

Tinubu’s comments come amid continuing concerns about sporadic attacks in rural areas and the resilience of armed groups, but the President maintained that the trend was moving firmly in Nigeria’s favour.

The Institute of Change Management (ICM) has called on Nigerian businesses to prepare for a future defined by the convergence of people, processes, and technology, noting that successful organisations will be those that approach digital transformation with intentionality and agility.

Nat Osewele, president/chairman of the council of ICM, during his address of welcome at the 2025 ICM Annual Conference themed, ‘Navigating to the Future: Synchronising People, Processes and Technology for the Next Era of Change,’ said the gathering was more than a meeting of professionals but a launchpad for transformation.

‘This conference reflects our collective commitment to shaping the future with intention, innovation, and integrity,’ Osewele stated.

He emphasised that the future is not to be feared but designed, while urging change leaders to build cultures that embrace agility, collaboration, and continuous learning.

During a panel session on ‘digital transformation and organisational agility,’ industry leaders highlighted both opportunities and challenges facing Nigerian firms.

Morolayo Igeleke, country marketing manager at UPS, stressed that successful transformation depends on leadership commitment.

‘It starts from the top,’ he said. ‘The shoulders of implementation begin with leadership, and everyone else will pick from it.

‘To invest in digital transformation as a leader, you must be digitally literate, set visions and timings, and grow incrementally. Mindset change is very difficult, but with execution and time, things will change,’ Igeleke noted. Folorunsho Aliu, group chief information officer of Dangote Industries Limited, said agility is not just speed but alignment with an organisation’s realities.

‘A lot of people are jumping to AI because it’s the real thing, but you can’t digitise processes if your business is still running on paper,’ Aliu stated. ‘You must evaluate your stage, set the right foundation, and grow organically. There is no need to rush just to catch up with everybody.’

He added that small businesses may find it easier to embed digital systems from scratch, while larger organisations must take a more structured approach.

The panel agreed that Nigerian businesses must prioritise continuous learning, workforce audits, and communication when adopting AI. Small pilot projects, investment in digital literacy, and ethical considerations were also identified as critical success factors.

Obiageli Nwobi, managing consultant at HR Allied Services Ltd, noted that AI is already embedded in everyday work.

She stated that there is an urgency to prepare today’s workforce for an AI-driven future. ‘AI has come to stay. Many of us already use it daily without realising it – from personalised recommendations to research tools.

‘The workforce of tomorrow will not only be assisted by AI, it will be shaped by it. The focus is shifting from jobs to skills, and success will depend on human-AI collaboration.’

It was noted that AI is increasingly taking over repetitive jobs, but new roles are also being created, from AI ethics officers to process improvement engineers.

‘Our jobs are not disappearing; they are evolving.’

Industry experts have urged the Federal Government to embrace full digitalisation of the oil and gas sector, describing it as the only sustainable solution to crude oil theft, vandalism, and wastage.

They made the recommendation at a leadership forum in Houston, Texas, warning that Nigeria continues to lose significant amounts of income weekly to theft and inefficiency because of outdated tracking and opaque validation systems.

Charles Deigh, a petroleum engineer, and Oluwatoyin Joseph Gbadeyan, a researcher, in their joint presentation, said every barrel of oil should represent national prosperity, but large amounts are lost annually through sabotage and poor accountability.

‘This is not just unfortunate-it is unacceptable. Nigeria cannot afford to let another barrel go to waste.

‘We need bold, transformative action,’ they said.

According to the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), daily crude losses dropped from about seven million dollars in 2021 to 700,000 dollars in 2025.

The agency attributed the reduction to initiatives such as the Nigeria Upstream Measurement System (NUMS), the Automated Hydrocarbon Accounting System (AHAS) and provisions in the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) mandating metering technologies.

However, the experts stressed that enforcement remained weak, with manual reporting and lack of real-time oversight still enabling theft.

They recommended the deployment of advanced digital tools such as Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, drones, satellites, blockchain tracking, artificial intelligence and automated metering across the oil infrastructure.

According to them, such technologies-already in use in countries like Norway and Saudi Arabia-would cut the 10,000 to 20,000 barrels lost daily to theft and wastage, restore investor confidence and give all stakeholders access to transparent, real-time data.

The experts said Nigeria must set a firm milestone of achieving full digital coverage of its oil infrastructure by December 2025, if the country was to secure its resources and translate them into wealth.

‘Government must move beyond policy to action, ensuring digital oversight is not just written into the PIA but rigorously enforced, with real consequences for non-compliance,’ Deigh and Gbadeyan said.

They further urged oil companies to invest in durable monitoring systems and called on host communities to embrace transparency as a pathway to shared prosperity.

They warned that continued losses would erode national wealth, while urgent digitalisation could power economic growth, stability and diversification.

‘The flames of wasted oil wealth have burned for too long.

‘It is time to extinguish them with innovation, strong laws, advanced technology and political courage. The future of Nigeria depends on it,’ they said.

Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum acknowledged the challenges the country has faced over the past six and a half decades, but emphasised that Nigeria has consistently emerged stronger. He called for continued unity, mutual understanding, and peaceful coexistence amongst its citizens.

Zulum congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other Nigerians on Wednesday on the occasion of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day Celebration.

The Governor commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and continued support to the armed forces and other security agencies involved in counter-insurgency operations in the North East, particularly in Borno State. Zulum, in a statement he personally signed, also expressed commitment to providing peace and development to Borno, stating, ‘We will not rest. We will not be complacent. We will continue to work, strive more, and fight for a Borno where everyone can dream of a better life, every farmer can till their land, our industries can thrive, and every family can sleep in peace.’

Governor Zulum’s full statement below:

‘As we join our brothers and sisters across the country to mark the 65th anniversary of our independence. We celebrate the Nigerian nation’s freedom, unity, and resilience. But on this day, our reflections in Borno are particularly profound. Our journey has been uniquely tested, yet our hope remains unbroken.’

‘It is indeed worth celebrating 65 years of nationhood as an indivisible nation. Despite the threats of insecurity, such as Boko Haram, ISWAP, and other criminal elements, our gallant military officers and security forces are winning the battle. We must unite as a people to fight the common enemy.’

‘We remember with solemn gratitude the sacrifices of our gallant men and women in uniform, the military, the police, the Civilian JTF, and all security agencies who have paid the ultimate price to keep us safe. We honour the memory of our sons and daughters, fathers and mothers, who were lost to the insurgency.’

‘ Let me use this opportunity to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and continued support to the armed forces and other security agencies involved in counter-insurgency operations in the North East, particularly in Borno State.

‘Our primary and most sacred duty has been the restoration of peace and security. We adopted a multi-faceted approach, understanding that a purely kinetic solution is not enough.’

‘We have consistently and directly supported our security forces. From providing hundreds of operational vehicles, armoured personnel carriers, and sophisticated communication and other operational gadgets to consistently visiting difficult frontline locations, so that we ensure that our troops are motivated and better equipped to face the enemy. We have built and renovated accommodations for our security operatives, among many other supports.’

‘Peace cannot be complete without restoration. Therefore, we have undertaken the most ambitious resettlement programme in Nigeria. We have successfully closed all the official internally displaced persons (IDP) camps within Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, moving our people from a state of dependency to dignity and self-reliance.’

‘We have supported the safe and voluntary return of a significant number of our displaced population to their ancestral homes by providing them with livelihood packages. We have constructed thousands of resettlement houses across local government areas, providing shelter for returnees.’ ‘We have rebuilt critical infrastructure, including hundreds of healthcare centres, primary and secondary schools, ensuring that our children can learn and our sick can be treated in their communities.’

‘Dear Citizens of Borno, our vision extends beyond survival to prosperity. We are laying the foundation for a post-insurgency economy.

‘Our administration’s peacebuilding and recovery efforts are greatly succeeding. The integrated policies, designed to address the root causes of insurgency, build community resilience, and promote reconciliation, have been fruitful.

Trade and Commerce as a cornerstone, we have reestablished and upgraded to an international standard our cattle markets in Gamboru Nagal, Banki and the one in Kasuwan Shanu in Jere Local Government Area.’ ‘We are pursuing the establishment of the African Inter-Continental Free Trade Zone in Banki and a Dry Inland Port in Maiduguri. We have invested a lot of resources to support the federal government’s initiative of international operations at Muhammadu Buhari Airport. These, among other strategic plans we have drawn, will significantly boost the economy of our state and create several employment opportunities.’

‘Through our various empowerment schemes, we have provided startup capital, tools, and training to tens of thousands of our youths and women, turning them from victims into entrepreneurs and employers of labour.’

We have constructed and equipped modern and specialised hospitals, two nursing colleges, and recruited hundreds of healthcare professionals to bring quality medical services to our people. Our world-class Kashim Ibrahim University Teaching Hospital will soon be activated.’

‘We have invested hugely in the education sector, recruited over 4,000 teachers and renovated schools across the state. Our scholarship programmes have sent thousands of Borno indigenes to universities at home and abroad, investing in the human capital that will drive our future.’

‘In the agricultural sector, we have distributed thousands of tonnes of fertiliser, improved seeds, and agricultural machinery to our farmers. We have revived some sections of the South Chad Irrigation Project, enabling the cultivation of thousands of hectares of land and moving us towards food sufficiency.’

‘My dear people, the journey is not over. Challenges remain. We still face the threat of remnant terrorists. But there is a gradual return to peace in Borno. Many of our communities have reestablished themselves, our markets are bustling, and our farms are again yielding bountiful harvests.’

‘On this Independence Day, let us draw strength from our collective resilience. Let us renew our commitment to unity, peace, and the progress of Borno State within a prosperous Nigeria.’

President Bola Tinubu has said the Nigerian economy is recovering faster than expected due to the reforms his administration embarked on more than two years ago, adding that ‘yesterday’s pains are giving way to relief.’

‘I am pleased to report that we have finally turned the corner. The worst is over, I say. Our economy is recovering fast, and the reforms we started over two years ago are delivering tangible results,’ Tinubu said in a televised Independence Day broadcast Wednesday.

Tinubu, who took over from late President Muhammadu Buhari some two years ago, said he inherited a near-collapsed economy, a situation that warranted his resolve to take on bold market reforms to put the country on the path of growth.

The reforms, though unpopular, phased out fuel subsidies that crippled the country’s finances while benefiting ‘a tiny minority’ and unified the exchange rate in a bid to make it more market-driven and remove longstanding arbitrage. The consequences of the reforms were mixed. For Nigerians, it crushed spending power as inflation soared to a multi-year high and led to the worst cost-of-living crisis in a generation. Poverty rose quickly and dried up the middle-class economy.

On the other hand, Nigeria’s economy became more resilient with annual growth now at 4.23 per cent as of the second quarter of 2025, the quickest pace since 2021, while inflation has continued to cool for the fifth straight month this year, a development that has allowed the monetary authorities slashed key interest rates by half point to 27 percent in first since 2020. ‘Our administration has redirected the economy towards a more inclusive path, channeling money to fund education, healthcare, national security, agriculture, and critical economic infrastructure, such as roads, power, broadband, and social investment programmes. These initiatives will generally improve Nigerians’ quality of life.’

He noted that his administration has achieved 12 economic milestones, including achieving more than N20 trillion in non-oil revenues as of August. That’s more than the total figure for last year at N21.7 trillion.

Tinubu said Nigeria’s debt service-to-revenue ratio has reduced to less than 50 per cent from 97 per cent, adding that with external reserves at more than $42 billion, the naira has stabilised from the turbulence and volatility witnessed in 2023 and 2024.

According to the president, Nigeria’s tax-to-GDP ratio has risen to 13.5 per cent from less than 10 per cent, with the ratio expected to increase further when the new tax law takes effect in January.

‘Nigeria has recorded a trade surplus for five consecutive quarters. We are now selling more to the world than we are buying, a fundamental shift that strengthens our currency and creates jobs at home,’ the president said.

‘Nigeria’s trade surplus increased by 44.3% in Q2 2025 to N7.46 trillion ($4.74 billion), the largest in about three years. Goods manufactured in Nigeria and exported jumped by 173%. Non-oil exports, as a component of our export trade, now represent 48 per cent, compared to oil exports, which account for 52 per cent.’

Every year on October 1st, Nigerians gather to wave the green-white-green, listen to speeches, and watch parades that commemorate our independence. Yet, as we mark another year of nationhood, one must ask: independence to what end? For too long, our celebration has been heavy on symbolism and light on substance. The true measure of independence is not how many years we have been free from colonial rule, but how free and equipped our people are to live meaningful, productive lives.

In theory, our enviable demographic treasure is our Independence Dividend, a vibrant youth bulge with the potential to power industries, build new enterprises, and reimagine our national identity. But in practice, the dividend is slipping through our fingers. Millions of young people leave school with certificates that employers do not trust, while industries complain about a shortage of skilled hands. This paradox, abundance of people, scarcity of talent, is our national contradiction. And unless we resolve it, Independence Day will remain more performance than progress.

Our notion of independence certainly needs to evolve. True independence in the 21st century is not about flags, anthems, or military displays. It is about whether citizens are equipped to compete in a world driven by ideas, technology, and innovation. China, South Korea, India, etc., did not become global players by leaning on resources alone; they built people. They made national strategies out of education, training, and research. That is what gave them independence in the truest sense: freedom from dependence on foreign expertise, freedom from poverty traps, and freedom to innovate their own futures.

For us here in Nigeria, this means measuring our progress by hard numbers: How many children entered school and graduated with usable skills this year? How many young people gained employable training, not just certificates? How many new jobs were created in industries of future tech, green energy, and advanced manufacturing? How many women were empowered with access to education, leadership opportunities, and finance? Until we can answer these questions with pride, our independence remains incomplete.

So, what would it take to truly invest in people as a national strategy? It requires a framework we can consider under three pillars: education for relevance, skills for the future, and growth opportunities.

Our education system remains too theoretical, too distant from the reality in the labour market. This requires bold reforms: modernising our curricula to include digital literacy, critical thinking, and problem-solving; investing in teacher training; and bridging urban-rural gaps through technology-enabled learning.

Beyond formal education, our technical colleges and vocational centres should be revitalised as engines of skill creation. Every region has a comparative advantage waiting to be harnessed, but this requires deliberate investment in training hubs that blend academia with industry needs.

Talent without opportunity breeds frustration. So, we must build ecosystems where young people can apply their skills. This means investing in entrepreneurship support, expanding access to credit, incentivising businesses that train and retain local talent, and creating public-private partnerships that generate jobs. Government budgets must also reflect this shift: for every naira we spend on roads and bridges, an equal commitment should be made to people’s infrastructure, training, mentorship, and innovation hubs.

This framework cannot remain in theory. We should codify it in policy and practice. Nigeria needs state-backed innovation hubs that decentralise opportunity from Lagos and Abuja into Aba, Kano, Calabar, Eket, Jos, Makurdi and others. And we need accountability: every Independence Day, the President’s speech should not only recount history but also present a Human Capital Scorecard showing what progress has been made in education, jobs, and skills development.

The opportunity cost of delay is staggering. Nigeria is projected to reach 400 million by 2050. If we fail to harness this youth bulge, we will not just miss economic growth, we will incubate instability. Idle hands are not only GDP left on the table; they are fertile ground for crime, unrest, and migration crises. But if we seize the moment, Nigeria could become one of the most dynamic workforces in the world, supplying talent to Africa and beyond.

So, on this Independence Day, let us move beyond nostalgia. Let us make October 1st a checkpoint for our most important national asset: our people. Imagine if, every year, Nigerians looked forward not just to speeches but to concrete numbers on how many new schools were built, how many youths were trained, how many jobs were created, and how many women advanced into leadership. That is how nations measure independence in the modern age, not by how long they have been free, but by how well their people can thrive.

Nigeria has never lacked potential. What we have lacked is the discipline to transform our people. It is not too late. If we begin today, then in a decade, Independence Day will not just be a memory of 1960. It will be a celebration of a Nigeria that truly invested in its people and, in doing so, secured its future.

Because flags fade, speeches are forgotten, and parades disperse. But the independence that comes from human capital, the independence of mind, skill, and opportunity, lasts for generations.

That is the independence dividend Nigeria must pursue.