Independence Day: Nigeria at 64, Things to Love about the Giant of Africa

Nigeria is the heartbeat of Africa. With over 200 million people and more than 250 ethnic groups, it stands as a testament to the beauty of diversity, where traditions and modernity entwine seamlessly. From the bustling streets of Lagos, Africa’s largest city, to the serene landscapes of the Niger Delta, the cold, beautiful city of Jos, and ancient historical cities like Kaduna, Kano, and Benin, the aesthetics of Calabar, amongst many other places, Nigeria is a beautiful country with vibrant, friendly people.

As Nigeria celebrates its 64th independence anniversary, let’s take a tour through its cultural heritage, economic potential, and vibrant community life and people. The Independence anniversary of Africa’s most populous country presents another chance to see the beauty of a diverse society with great potential, giving us the chance to “Imagine Nigeria,” a poem from Arukaino Umukoro’s debut poetry collection, The Memory of Seasons. It envisions a beautiful country where the travails of yesterday are forgotten and the hopes and dreams of its citizens are realised in a “…new Nigeria tomorrow, the ascension.”

Here are 10 things to love about Nigeria and its people.

1. Cultural Diversity: Worthy of attention is the blend of different cultures—a country that serves as home to over 250 ethnic groups, each with its own unique traditions, languages, and customs. As Umukoro puts it, “Imagine that the over 250 ethnic groups understand their differences// harnessing her diversity into strength// to become a truly indivisible country// Imagine the one ‘Nigeria tribe.” But much more than imagination, this can gradually become reality as this cultural mosaic is celebrated through festivals, traditional dances, and rich oral histories, showcasing a nation united in its diversity, and the voices of unity are amplified, making the nation a reference for tolerance.  Events like the Osun-Osogbo Festival and the Calabar Carnival, drawing thousands of visitors from within and outside the nation, highlight the importance of cultural heritage in contemporary society.
2. Delicious Dishes: Looking for a culinary adventure that tantalises the taste buds? Nigerian dishes, influenced by the country’s rich agricultural landscape, are a great place to start. “Imagine tuwo shinkafa, amala, and banga soup // on the regular menu list in Waldorf Astoria.” Each region boasts its specialities, and this makes local markets and street food stalls a delightful exploration. The vibrant food culture extends beyond traditional dishes, with modern interpretations emerging from chefs and food enthusiasts across the country. How about her magic seasonings gotten from processing plant leaves and seeds, like the Parkia Biglobosa processed and used by many Nigerians as local seasoning—popularly called Iru by the Yorubas and Dadawa by Hausas—and Prosopis Africana seeds processed as Okpehe by the Igalas and some tribes in Benue.
3. Afrobeats culture: The vibrant music culture of Afrobeats and Afropop has made waves globally. Artists such as Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Tiwa Savage blend traditional rhythms with contemporary sounds, capturing the hearts of millions. The musical talents of young Nigerians is seen in the likes of Rema, whose recent album, HEIS, is topping global charts. Rema’s hit song, “Calm Down” which featured Selena Gomez, is also the first African song to reach one billion streams on Spotify. Over the years, Nigeria’s music culture has gained global recognition, and Afrobeats is now a global movement. The country’s music festivals, like the Lagos Jazz Series and the One Africa Music Fest, celebrate this creativity and provide a platform for emerging artists to showcase their talent.
4. Creative Expression: Another love calling attribute that the Nigerian nation possesses is her show of creativity in expressing real-life experiences. The thriving film industry—Nollywood is one of the largest film industries in the world, producing thousands of movies annually. The stories told reflect not only the Nigerian culture, challenges, and triumphs, but also her constant drive towards fulfilling her dream of unity and faith, peace, and progress, and this has captivated audiences both locally and internationally. The industry’s growth has led to the emergence of talented filmmakers and actors who are redefining cinema in Africa, making Nollywood a cultural force to reckon with. Again, Umukoro’s poem comes to mind as we “Imagine Nollywood movies winning Oscars// every other year// Funke, Ejiro, Asabe on the global stage.”
5. Entrepreneurial Spirit: Nigerians are also known for their entrepreneurial spirit. From fashion to tech and agriculture, local entrepreneurs are creating innovative solutions to everyday problems. With four Nigerians among the 10 finalists of the recent NBA Africa Triple Double Accelerator programme, with the first two among the four winners, the resilient entrepreneurial spirit never goes unnoticed. Initiatives like the Tony Elumelu Foundation and the W Initiative, amongst others, have emerged to support young entrepreneurs by providing training and funding, fostering a new generation of business leaders who are contributing to the nation’s economic growth.
6. Rich literary tradition: Speaking of her rich literary tradition, Nigeria has produced renowned authors such as Nobel laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka, Buchi Emecheta, Chinua Achebe, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, just to mention a few, who have made significant contributions to global literature. Their works explore themes of identity, culture, and politics, resonating with readers worldwide. Literary festivals, such as the Ake Arts and Book Festival, organized by renowned author, Lola Shoneyin, celebrate this heritage, bringing together writers, readers, and thinkers to engage in meaningful discussions. New writings are also emerging that explore issues that affect the average Nigerian. With writings like Elnathan John’s Be(com)ing Nigeria, Akwaeke Emezi’s Fresh Water, and Chigozie Obioma’s An Orchestra of Minorities, the trend in Nigerian literature is gradually shifting from colonial concerns to exploration of lifestyles and beliefs, making her literature an attraction in the world of literary criticism.
7. Tourist attractions: From the rolling hills of Obudu Mountain Resort to the pristine beaches of Lekki and Tarkwa Bay, Nigeria boasts a diverse display of natural beauty. National parks like Yankari and Gashaka Gumti are teeming with wildlife and offer opportunities for eco-tourism. These locations provide a refreshing escape from urban life, allowing visitors to connect with nature and appreciate the country’s rich biodiversity. Of course, these heritage sites evoke beauty, love and aesthetic satisfaction to the soul. They are rich in history, with numerous telling the story of Nigeria’s past. The ancient city of Kano, with its impressive architecture and bustling markets, offers a glimpse into the country’s history. Olumo Rock in Abeokuta and the Aso Rock in Abuja serve as significant landmarks, attracting tourists and locals alike. These sites foster a sense of identity and pride, preserving the narratives of generations past.
8. Fashion Style: Nigerian fashion is vibrant and eclectic, showcasing the creativity of designers who incorporate traditional textiles and modern designs. Events like Lagos Fashion Week and Africa Fashion Week Nigeria highlight local talent and promote the country’s fashion industry on a global stage. Designers such as Deola Sagoe, Lisa Folawiyo, and Sandrah Tubobereni are making their mark internationally, bringing Nigerian fashion to the forefront of global trends.
9. Boundless Artistry: Also known for its skilled artisans who produce intricate beadwork, textiles, and pottery. Craft markets, such as the Lekki Arts and Crafts Market, showcase this talent and support local artisans. The craftsmanship reflects cultural traditions and plays a vital role in the economy, as handmade goods gain recognition both locally and internationally. From traditional sculptures to contemporary installations, Nigerian art is a powerful form of expression. Artists use their work to comment on social issues, reflecting the dynamic nature of Nigerian society. Institutions like the National Museum in Lagos and cultural festivals such as the Lagos Black Heritage Festival promote and celebrate this artistic heritage, showcasing the diversity of talent in the country.
10. Hospitality: Family and community are at the heart of Nigerian culture. Social gatherings, whether for celebrations or communal support, reinforce bonds and create a strong sense of belonging. This communal spirit is evident in festivals, weddings, and religious celebrations, where the entire community comes together to share in joy and solidarity. Nigerians are known for their warmth and hospitality. Visitors often find themselves welcomed with open arms, experiencing the genuine friendliness that characterises Nigerian culture. This spirit of hospitality is evident in social gatherings, community events, and family celebrations, creating an inclusive atmosphere that makes everyone feel at home.

Despite its challenges, Nigerians display remarkable resilience and hope for a better future. The determination to innovate, advocate for change, and celebrate cultural heritage is a testament to the spirit of the nation. Grassroots movements and community initiatives reflect a commitment to improving the quality of life for all citizens, creating a sense of optimism for the future. Cities like Lagos and Abuja are bustling with activity, offering a mix of business, entertainment, and cultural experiences.

Nigeria is a land of distinctions, where tradition meets modernity and challenges foster innovation. As the country continues to grow and evolve, it remains a beacon of hope and creativity for the African continent. Embracing its diversity and resilience, fostered with quality leadership, Nigeria stands poised to keep making significant contributions to the global community.