As Nigeria celebrates its 65th Independence anniversary, the familiar symbols of national pride once again surfaced across the country. Flags fluttered in public spaces, patriotic songs echoed on radio and television, and the spirit of reflection lingered in homes and streets; except that this time, the usual Independence Day parade was cancelled. The day remains a symbolic reminder of that historic moment in 1960 when the green-and-white flag was raised for the first time, replacing the Union Jack, signalling the end of colonial rule and the beginning of self-governance.