On October 1, 1960, Nigeria was born into independence with hopes of becoming a giant not only in Africa but on the global stage. Sixty-five years later, those hopes remain fragile. A country of such age should display maturity in its democratic processes, economic management, security architecture, socio-political order, and cultural identity. Instead, our democracy continues to stumble under the weight of flawed elections and fragile institutions.
This year’s Independence anniversary coincides with the National Electoral Reform Summit 2025, a chance for the nation to show that age comes with wisdom. At sixty-five, Nigeria can no longer afford an electoral system that breeds chaos, litigation, and public distrust. True democracy demands certainty, fairness, and trust at the ballot box. Without that, every other ambition — economic recovery, security reforms, social justice, and cultural pride collapses on shaky ground.
Electoral credibility has become Nigeria’s most pressing deficit. Each cycle is marked by disputed outcomes, compromised logistics, opaque vote transmission, and the poisonous influence of money. Citizens who should believe in democracy now doubt its value. For a country with Nigeria’s resources, history, and cultural diversity, this is an unacceptable immaturity.
This is why the calibre of voices expected at the summit matters. Former President Goodluck Jonathan must appeal for consensus, reminding leaders that electoral reform is a patriotic duty, not a partisan favour. Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo should bring legal clarity, insisting on constitutional amendments to secure INEC’s autonomy and independence of funding. Former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi must challenge politicians to legislate reforms even when it diminishes their own advantage. Former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, representing the frustrations and aspirations of the youth majority, should demand integrity, inclusiveness, and transparency. And Professor Attahiru Jega, former INEC Chairman must ground the debate in technical solutions — verifiable technology, tighter campaign finance laws, and inclusion of diaspora and vulnerable voters.
Yet the real measure of success will not be eloquent speeches. Nigerians want commitments tied to timelines: amendments to the Electoral Act, enforceable frameworks for electronic transmission of results, regulations on campaign spending, and a national oversight body that ensures reforms are implemented before 2027.
At sixty-five, Nigeria cannot afford to behave like an infant democracy. Our economy suffers from instability, our security system from distrust, and our political culture from cynicism. Maturity demands that we defend the ballot with the same seriousness with which we defend our borders and manage our economy.
October 1, 2025, must not dissolve into another symbolic date of fanfare and fine words. It should be remembered as the day Nigeria grew up politically, choosing to protect the Republic above ambition and to honour the promise of 1960 with reforms worthy of a maturing nation. Anything less would betray both history and future generations.
