Independence Day of Nigeria — 1 October 🇳🇬
Today, 1 October, Nigeria marks Independence Day, its National Day. On this day in 1960, Nigeria gained independence from British rule.
WAELE AFRICA Foundation congratulates the people of Nigeria on this historic milestone. We wish you continued peace, unity and prosperity as you build the next chapter of our great nation.
A brief history
Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa, with about one in every five Africans being Nigerian. European contact with modern-day Nigeria began in the 16th century when explorers from Spain and Portugal started trading with local communities, leading to the growth of port towns such as Lagos.
In the late 19th century, the British became the dominant influence through the Royal Niger Company. In 1900, territories under the company became the Southern Nigeria Protectorate. In 1914, it was merged with the Northern Nigeria Protectorate to form the Colony and Protectorate of Nigeria, creating the borders of modern-day Nigeria.
Many aspects of modern life were established under British rule, but by the middle of the 20th century, the call for independence sweeping across Africa led to Nigeria being granted independence on 1 October 1960 under a constitution with a parliamentary government and a degree of autonomy for its three regions. Nigeria became a federal republic with full independence from Britain on 1 October 1963 when a new constitution was adopted, with Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe as its first President. After a period of political unrest and military rule, democratic governance was restored on 1 October 1979.
Did you know?
The city of Lagos was the capital of Nigeria until 1986, when the seat of government moved to Abuja. In New York, Nigeria’s Independence Day has been celebrated since 1991 and remains the largest celebration by any African nation in the United States.
Today we honour Nigeria’s courage, resilience, diversity and creativity, and celebrate its journey toward peace, democracy and sustainable development.
Happy Independence Day, Nigeria!
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