What an evergreen song it will remain to be. In 1985, Africa’s most populous nation, Nigeria was 25years old as a country and it was indeed an impressive occasion, when folkloric pop legend Bongos Ikwue rendered one of the most iconic songs of all time to celebrate the people and country. Nigeria and Nigerians rose to the occasion.

‘Nigeria is 25! The odds we did survive. Arise! Salute the nation
Come join the celebration
Nigeria is 25!

The opening lyrics brought back memories of gallantry. From independence agitation, down to civil war and instability that almost truncated the unity of a prosperous nation.

Bingos Ikwue has been a brilliant lyricist and composer. A music genius known for renditions such as ‘Cockrow at Dawn’ ‘Something Good’
‘Mariama’ ‘Still Searching’ and other great songs done in Benue native language Idoma. In fact, Bongos was the king of folklore.

In 1985, a new regime under General Ibrahim Babangida was in power. The country had started smoothly under civilian administration at independence with assurance of smooth transition. It happened never to happen. Corruption, lack of trust and accountability became the mantra among the civil society which uneventually, ushered in the military and the country started experiencing seasons of despotic regimes.

The second verse of the song brought in the abundance of mineral resources that flourish within the country. Genuine prosperity was celebrated by Bongos Ikwue.

Yet, today, the civil society is coming to terms with what has brought the country to where we are now that the country is 60years old, having experienced two decades of civilian transition.

Nigeria is 25! by Bongos Ikwue remains a memorable song that still unite us as one.

Words /Ireho Aito /images /Google