A Celebration of Nigerian Identity and Resilience
As Nigeria marks its 65th Independence anniversary, the country’s entertainers share heartfelt thoughts on their love for the nation and the importance of entertainment in shaping its future. Their reflections offer a glimpse into the hopes, challenges, and aspirations of a nation that continues to evolve.
Jide Kosoko: A Voice of Hope and Unity
Jide Kosoko, a veteran actor, emphasizes the need for Nigerians to remain positive about their country. He reflects on the journey of Nigeria since independence, acknowledging both the progress and the challenges. “From all the ones I have witnessed, I can only thank Almighty God that things are changing,” he says. He highlights the importance of infrastructure development and the government’s efforts to address issues like electricity and inflation.
Kosoko recalls his earliest memory of October 1 celebrations, which took place in 1960 when he was just six years old. “We were given small flags and waved them in the air. It was a memorable day.” He believes that while there are challenges, development is a continuous process, and every citizen has a role to play in contributing to the nation’s growth.
He also speaks about the value of human resources in Nigeria, stating that Nigerians are talented and capable of competing globally. In terms of unity, Kosoko emphasizes the role of entertainment in bringing people together. “There is no tribalism in our industry; we all work together,” he says, highlighting the collaborative nature of the entertainment sector.
Kosoko’s hope for Nigeria at 65 is that leaders will focus on providing basic necessities and investing in the youth. He advocates for a balanced education system that combines theory with practical skills, ensuring that graduates are equipped to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s development.
Zakki Azzay: The Power of Music
Zakki Azzay, a musician, celebrates Nigeria at 65 by emphasizing the power of music. “Music has kept Nigerians from losing their minds,” he says, highlighting how it has provided comfort and hope over the years. He believes that music has not only sustained the nation but also created employment opportunities for youths.
Azzay also points out that Nigerian music has gained global recognition, attracting attention to the country. His song “Lallai Nigeria” and Timi Dakolo’s “Great Nation” are seen as representations of the spirit of independence.
Being a Nigerian artiste brings pride to Azzay, especially as Nigerian music is now on top globally. He encourages the government to recognize the potential of the entertainment industry and invest in it. “This industry is the only one capable of providing employment for all Nigerian youths,” he says.
His message to Nigeria is simple: “Nigeria is like a one-room apartment we all live in. If anything happens to her, we will all be homeless and in trouble.”
Gbenga Adeyinka: The Role of Comedy
Gbenga Adeyinka, a comedian, shares his fondest memories of celebrating Independence Day during his school days. He believes that humor plays a crucial role in telling Nigeria’s story. “The jokes should tell the story, and people who can think should understand what you are saying,” he explains.
Adeyinka highlights the unifying power of comedy, stating that nothing comes close to uniting Nigerians like humor. He believes that the country’s resilience and diversity are its greatest strengths.
When it comes to urgent needs, Adeyinka points to the power sector. “Once we get power right, a lot of things will fall into place,” he says. He also emphasizes the importance of supporting small and medium enterprises to boost the economy.
His message to leaders is clear: “You should put policies in place that are for the greater good, without tribal bias.”
Osita Iheme: Reflecting on Nigerian Spirit
Osita Iheme, another comedian, values respect and discipline in Nigerian culture. He believes that Nollywood comedy reflects the Nigerian spirit by showcasing the country’s traditions and stories. He sees the entertainment industry as a platform for cultural exchange and national identity.
If he could change one thing about Nigeria today, Iheme would focus on improving electricity, roads, healthcare, and education. He remains hopeful about Nigeria’s future due to the resilience of its citizens and abundant resources.
For the younger generation, Iheme advises identifying their strengths and acquiring skills to contribute to the nation’s growth.
Shan George: Celebrating Diversity
Shan George, a filmmaker, views Independence Day as a celebration of Nigeria’s diversity. “It’s a day to celebrate the diversity of different people, cultures, traditions and religions living under one umbrella,” he says. He believes that Nollywood has grown alongside Nigeria, reflecting the nation’s journey.
George holds respect for elders as a key Nigerian value. He emphasizes the importance of preserving cultural heritage and using Nigeria’s diverse stories to showcase the country’s richness.
If he had the power to fix one challenge, George would focus on electricity. “Light is life,” he says, adding that steady power would address many other issues.
As a filmmaker, George is proud of Nigeria’s diverse cultures and the endless stories they offer. He believes that with better governance, Nigeria could be one of the best parts of the world.
For the younger generation, George encourages them to use the tools available to make Nigeria better, while elders must hand them the authority to do so.
