Interesting facts about Nigeria’s independence day you probably didn’t know
Today Oct. 1, 2021, Nigeria marks 61 years since we became an independent nation with the end of colonial rule. To celebrate Nigeria’s 61st independence day, here are some interesting facts about Nigeria’s independence day you need to know.
- The Name ‘Nigeria’
Flora Shaw was the one who came up with the name “Nigeria.” She was the wife of Lord Lugard, a British soldier who helped to bring Nigeria together and became the country’s first Governor-General. Flora was inspired by the big river Niger and came up with the name “Nigeria” by combining the phrases “Niger” and “Area.”
- Nigerian Founding Fathers
Many outstanding Nigerians sacrificed a lot of their passion, drive, and selflessness to make our independence day a reality in 1960. Here are a few Nigerians who contributed significantly to this cause:
- Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe – known as ‘Zik’, he was the first elected President of Nigeria after independence.
- Obafemi Awolowo – he introduced free education in the Western region of Nigeria and also founded Action Group.
- Sir Ahmadu Bello – founded the Northern People’s Party (NPP) in 1951 which later joined forces with Nnamdi Azikiwe’s NCNC party to fight for independence from the British.
- Nigerian Pound
Before Independence Day and a Few Years after Independence Day, Nigeria Used What Was Called the ‘Nigerian Pound’ as Their Currency of Exchange. Between 1907 and 1973, Nigeria used the Nigerian Pound as its currency. Nigeria used the British West African pound until 1958 when it switched to its own currency. The Nigerian pound was divided into 20 shillings, each worth 12 pence, and was pegged to the British pound for ease of conversion. The decimal naira was introduced in 1973, replacing the Nigerian pound, at a rate of 1 pound = 2 naira. Nigeria became the last country in the world to abandon the European pre-decimal currency system as a result of this transition.
- The New Nigerian Currency Note
The New Nigerian Currency Notes and Coins was Introduced a Year Before Independence Day. The Central Bank of Nigeria introduced new Nigeria currency notes and coins on July 1, 1959. The West African Currency Board issued the previous currency notes used in Nigeria from 1912 until early 1959. The West African currency board’s notes and coins were withdrawn when the new Nigeria currency notes and coins were issued. The West African Currency Board’s currency has ceased to be legal tender by July 1, 1962.
- Partnership With Airlines From Independence
Since our first day of independence, one of Africa’s largest airlines has been connected with Nigeria. Ethiopian Airlines formed a connection with Nigeria in 1960, and Nigeria is still one of Ethiopian Airlines’ top markets today!
- Nigeria was ruled by Military Leaders for 29 years
A handful of young, idealistic, UK-trained army majors ousted Nigeria’s democratic government in the country’s first violent military coup on Jan. 15, 1966. Nigeria was dominated by a series of increasingly harsh military rulers for the following 33 years until democracy was restored in 1999.
The celebration of Nigeria’s independence day is anticipated by all Nigerians. From the president’s live television and radio remarks to the magnificent cultural dances and songs performed by students from several states. The public holiday that comes with celebrating our magnificent country, most importantly, allows everyone to reflect on the accomplishments of this great nation.
