Exactly 64 years ago on October 1, 1960, the British Union Jack was lowered to make way for the Nigerian national flag, signifying an end to colonial rule and the beginning of self-rule for a nation filled with hope and promise. The country held much hope as the most populous nation in Africa, with vast resources and potential for economic prosperity and political stability projected in this era.

In his speech on that momentous day, the then Prime Minister, Tafawa Balewa, pledged to build a united, prosperous, and democratic Nigeria.
He also called on all Nigerians to work together to build a better future for the country.

Over the years, however, the Nigerian national life has been a mixed bag of achievements and setbacks, with the shadows of corruption, economic downturns, and social unrest overshadowing its progress. Clearly, this was not the Nigeria at independence that held the aspirations of its founding fathers. 

So, while we celebrated this year's independence, we asked critical questions. How do we turn around the narrative of despair into one of hope? How do we ensure that the sacrifices made in the quest for independence by our founding fathers are not in vain? 

Listen to the conversation.