It is the 65th Independence Day for my beloved nation, and I am immensely proud that it has been 65 years since we gained our independence from way back in 1960. This goes to prove that we have overcome a whole lot as Nigerians and as a country, which has strengthened our unity as a nation in the midst of all the hardship.
One thing is for sure: I have had my fair share of talking about the hardship I currently face as a citizen living in the country. Starting with the increase in my rent by my landlord, down to the recent writing about the introduction of the new tax rule that kicks off in January 2026. I would not lie, it has not been a rosy ride, but I have to admit as well that there have been highs as well.
Starting with the people. The Nigerian people are the best when it comes to celebrating their tribe and embracing their diversity. It does not matter where you are from, and even above all, the colour of your skin, we do not even have a reason to look at anyone for sure. Nigerians will surely welcome you. Another angle is the food. No matter where you go in this life, I cannot help but tell you I will give up on Nigerian food. Never! That can never happen when my tongue has touched the flavours of smoked jollof, amala and ewedu, vegetable soup, rich egusi, and many more.
I do not want to know where I am, but if I cannot lay my hands on some nice Nigerian meal, I have to settle for making it myself. Another high that has given us a reason to celebrate recently as a nation is the victories of our soccer queens and basketball goddesses, that is, the Super Falcons and the D'Tigress. The Super Falcon won the African Women's Cup of Nations, and it was a thing of joy for all Nigerians scattered around the globe. I still remember how excited I was that day it happened. Joy running through my veins, and it was so nice to be a Nigerian on that day.
Then, not too long after, the female basketball team followed suit. They won the 2025 FIBA Africa. As a basketball lover and huge supporter of this team, it was a win-win for me, and you can see why. Whenever a Nigerian strives on the world stage, it is a source of joy for us all as Nigerians, because these are the little things that keep a smile on our faces while we go through whatever we are going through.
Even though we are faced with hardship, struggle, or insecurity, we still try to put a smile on our faces. These are the things that keep us strong. Tomorrow, we move on with our daily lives, but today, we celebrate our Nation in the midst of its highs and lows.
From all of us at @sam.hangout, we wish all Nigerians a Happy Independence Day. Go ahead and enjoy your week.
Posted Using INLEO