Every October 1st, memories of how we used to celebrate Nigeria’s Independence Day as kids flood in, bringing waves of nostalgia. Back then, the excitement would build days before the holiday. There was something magical about this particular day—the streets were buzzing with anticipation, the air was filled with the aroma of delicious meals being prepared, and everything seemed to be painted in green and white.
School celebrations
Independence Day at school was the highlight of the season. Days before October 1st, we would rehearse songs, poems, and dances that spoke of Nigeria’s greatness, unity, and hope. Who could forget the familiar patriotic tunes like “Arise, O Compatriots”? Dressed in freshly laundered uniforms or traditional outfits, we proudly waved our little Nigerian flags during parades.
March-pasts were a big deal—each school wanted to outshine the other. With the school band playing drums, trumpets, and tambourines, we would march in unison, trying to maintain perfect lines. At the end, we’d wait eagerly for the headmaster’s announcement of the “Best in March-past” prize!
Green-White-Green Everywhere
There was an unspoken rule: you couldn’t celebrate Nigeria’s Independence Day without some touch of green and white. Children everywhere donned ribbons, shirts, face paint, and caps in the nation’s colours. Our parents often helped us decorate the house with tiny flags or coloured balloons. The pride of seeing the national flag hoisted high in every corner made us feel like little ambassadors of Nigeria.
The joy of going to public squares
If you grew up in a city with a public square, that was the place to be! Kids would gather at stadiums or open fields where cultural displays, military parades, and dance performances were staged. We’d sit cross-legged, eyes wide in awe, as soldiers marched with precision, and local cultural troupes showed off their traditional dances.
It was here that we got our first real taste of the spirit of unity—watching diverse groups celebrate our collective identity as Nigerians. Afterwards, we’d head off for street parties, where food vendors offered jollof rice, puff-puff, suya, and soft drinks in abundance.
Family feasts and Street parties
Independence Day also meant spending time with family. There was always an elaborate meal prepared, and, in some neighborhoods, families hosted block parties. Relatives would come over, and the sounds of laughter and conversation would fill the air. As children, we were more interested in running around with friends, and playing games like football or hide-and-seek, while the adults caught up on the latest news.
At the end of the day, fireworks lit up the night sky, and we would stare up in wonder, mesmerised by the bright colours. It felt like the whole country was united in celebration, even if just for a day.
Looking back, it wasn’t the sophistication or grandeur that made those Independence Day celebrations special. It was the simplicity, the unity, and the unfiltered joy we all shared as kids. The sense of hope, optimism, and pride in our nation stayed with us long after the celebrations ended. Those childhood experiences taught us about the importance of freedom, unity, and the richness of our culture.
Though times have changed, the memories of those celebrations remain etched in our hearts—a reminder of the youthful excitement that came with being part of Nigeria’s journey.