It's a long time to carry that burden, 66 years. You are right, independence on paper means nothing when the economy and politics are still tied up in foreign influence. In terms of infrastructure, governance and economic self-sufficiency, the 'Giant of Africa' sounds more like a reminder of what could be rather than what is.

True sovereignty is not about sitting at the UN, it is about not needing anyone else's permission to make decisions that affect your people. The most obvious evidence that political independence has not resulted in real autonomy is the stark contrast between Nigeria’s abundant resources and its present predicament.

That’s a heavy reality to face on an Independence Day, but calling it out is the first step to demanding better than just “anchor with a yoke.”