On October 1, 2025, Nigeria marked 65 years as an independent nation — a milestone worthy of reflection, gratitude, and sober assessment.
Since gaining independence on October 1, 1960, Nigeria has grown into a vibrant nation, rich in culture, diversity, and potential. We are celebrating a land richly blessed by God: vast natural resources, dynamic people, and remarkable resilience. Yet, we must also face the painful truth that our journey has been marred by persistent challenges — chief among them, violence and insecurity.
From terrorism and banditry to kidnappings, communal clashes, political thuggery, and urban crime, the spectre of insecurity continues to haunt our nation. Countless lives have been lost, families displaced, and dreams shattered. For many citizens, fear has become a daily companion.
Nigeria’s security challenges are deeply rooted in historical, economic, and social complexities. Poverty and unemployment, particularly among our youth, fuel crime and extremism. Unequal resource distribution stokes ethnic and religious tensions, while weak governance and corruption erode trust in institutions like the police and military. The proliferation of small arms, porous borders, and inadequate security infrastructure further complicate the situation.
We must pause at this 65th anniversary and ask with honesty and hope: Can Nigeria ever truly find peace?
Peace is not merely the absence of conflict — it is the fruit of justice, righteousness, and right relationships. Nations do not stumble into peace by accident; they build it intentionally through truth, fairness, accountability, and mutual respect. Our insecurity is not just a policing problem; it is the bitter harvest of deeper issues: injustice, inequality, corruption, poverty, religious intolerance, and tribal hatred.
Peace is a collective responsibility. Government, civil society, traditional and religious leaders, and citizens must work together.
Let us reject division, embrace unity, and amplify stories of hope. The private sector can drive economic growth, while the media can inspire resilience.
The Christian vision of peace is deeply rooted in the nature and mission of God. Christ, the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6), came not only to reconcile us to God but also to reconcile us to one another. The Church, as His Body, is called to reflect this mission — to be a prophetic voice against violence, a healing presence among victims, and a bridge of reconciliation in a divided society.
Our faith assures us that nations can be healed, wounds can be mended, and peace can flourish where there is commitment to righteousness and the courage to change.
Marking 65 years of independence should remind us that nationhood is still a work in progress. Nigeria’s story is not finished — and neither is God’s work in us.
Peace is possible, but it requires a new national commitment to truth, justice, forgiveness, and unity:
1. Strengthening Governance: Transparent leadership and accountability are vital. Tackling corruption in security agencies and equipping our forces with modern tools can restore public trust. Community policing can bridge gaps between citizens and law enforcement.
2. Empowering Our People: Economic inclusion is critical. Investments in education, vocational training, and job creation can empower our youth and reduce the appeal of crime. Rural development can address regional neglect and foster equity.
3. Fostering Unity: Nigeria’s diversity is our strength. Inclusive dialogue among ethnic, religious, and regional leaders can heal divisions. Reconciliation processes, inspired by global models, can address historical grievances.
4. Reforming Security: A modernized, decentralized security system, with state and local governments playing active roles, can address localized threats. Technology like surveillance and intelligence-sharing can enhance our response.
5. Global Partnerships: Collaborating with neighboring countries to secure borders and curb illegal arms, alongside international support for counterterrorism, can bolster our efforts.
As we celebrate our nation’s 65th anniversary, let us renew our dedication — as Christians and patriots — to “seek peace and pursue it” (Psalm 34:14). May God grant Nigeria the gift of peace, and may we, His people, become instruments of that peace for generations to come.
Princewill Ireoba
CANON THEOLOGIAN, CATHEDRAL OF ADVENT, ABUJA & DIRECTOR OF THEOLOGICAL MATTERS, CHURCH OF NIGERIA
