Amb Comrade Emeni Ibe (JP AP), the National President of Southern Youths Foundation of Nigeria and President General of Orashi National Congress, ONC, has expressed great optimism that Nigeria’s better days are ahead.
Cisca News reports that the ONC PG made the declaration in his Independence Day message on Wednesday, 1st October, 2025, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Amb. Ibe said, “Today, Nigerians will adorn the green-white-green once again to celebrate her independence.
On October 1, 1960, Nigeria stood tall as an independent nation. Hopes were high, the future looked bright, and the dream of becoming the true giant of Africa was born. Sixty- five years later, Nigeria’s journey has been a mix of victories, setbacks, and resilience- proof that the spirit of the Nigerian people cannot be broken”.
“Nigeria’s early years were rough. Coups, counter-coups, and decades of military rule dominated our history. For almost 29 out of our first 39 years, the military held power. Yet since 1999, democracy has remained unbroken- the longest stretch in our history. This is not a small win. It shows that Nigerians truly desire civilian rule, freedom, and voice in leadership.”
“From cocoa and groundnut pyramids to oil rigs, Nigeria shifted from farming to petroleum wealth. Oil made Nigeria Africa’s largest economy, but it also left millions in poverty. Inflation, unemployment, and a weak naira still bite hard.”
“But there is hope: Nigeria’s creative industries, fintech, and tech startups are breaking global limits. Nollywood and Afrobeats now export Nigeria’s culture to the world. This proves we are more than oil; we are talent, hustle, and creativity.”
“Our population has grown from 45 million in 1960 to over 220 million today. More schools, hospitals, roads, and trains exist, but challenges remain- strikes in universities, poor healthcare, power shortages, and insecurity.”
“Still, Nigeria survive and thrive. From the market woman to the street hustler, from the tech bros in Lagos to farmers in the villages, the hustle spirit keeps us moving.”
“No matter where you go in the world, you’ll find Nigerians shining. From Olympic medals to Afrobeats superstars like Burna Boy, Davido, and Wizkid, to Nollywood movies and diaspora professionals leading in tech and medicine – Nigeria’s influence is global.”
“At 65, Nigeria is not where it should be, but it is not where it used to be. Our journey is proof that even when we stumble, we rise again. The destiny of this nation does not rest only on leaders- it rest on us, the people. God Bless Nigeria!” Amb. Comrade Emeni Ibe concluded.