As Nigeria celebrates 65 years of independence, the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, has unveiled a stirring poetic tribute to honour the nation’s milestone.
Her piece, titled “Remember, Remember the 1st of October,” weaves together Nigeria’s past struggles and enduring hopes, presenting a lyrical journey from the country’s birth in 1960 to the present day.
The poem opens with vivid rhymes celebrating the dawn of independence and the enduring spirit of freedom that continues to define the nation.
“Remember, remember, the last day of September.
It ushers the dawn of the 1st of October.
Independence Galore for each person, each member,
Nigeria is still populated with ginormous ember.
“O Nigeria is 65, we agree to guarantee,
The flag of the country, the flag of the free,” she wrote.
The verses reflect on Nigeria’s historic challenges, including the civil war, corruption, and social divisions that have tested its unity over the decades.
Musawa also highlights the resilience of the people and their capacity for renewal.
“Of all the carnage, what we must not condone,
is the divide of religions and ethnicity scorn.
“For what is this nation, where will we be thrown,
if Nigeria divided and we each went alone?
“At this time, we are 65; Folks now we must atone!” she declared.
She paid homage to the nation’s founding fathers while calling on citizens to carry forward their vision of liberty and collective progress.
“Even rebellion is an effort to set thee free.
We, protégé, must continue to give to thee,
In the path of those who doth walk for Ye,” the poem read.
Closing on a note of faith and optimism, Musawa urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in love for their country and to trust in its renewal.
She expressed confidence that the nation’s strength lies in unity, divine guidance, and the unyielding hope of its people.
With her “Word-Rhyming-Flower,” Musawa delivered a heartfelt blessing to the motherland and wished every citizen a joyful Independence celebration.