A former aide to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, has said Nigeria is more divided, more insecure and less hopeful than ever, despite marking 65 years of independence.
In a statement posted on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle during the Independence Day celebration on 1st of October, Baba-Ahmed reflected on the state of the nation.
He lamented that instead of progress, the country has been weakened by poor leadership and the loss of shared values.
“65 years since independence we are more divided,more insecure and less hopeful about the future. We have been let down by poor leadership,loss of wholesome values and greed,” he wrote.
He, however, expressed hope that the country can still be turned around if citizens demand a fairer political process and push for constitutional reforms. 
According to him, reviewing how leaders are chosen and adjusting the current system of governance are necessary steps towards rebuilding trust and unity.
Supporting Baba-Ahmed’s position, Audu Ajanaku, an X user, said the presidential system of government had failed to deliver sustainable growth and inclusive development.
He suggested that Nigeria should return to a parliamentary system, where local councils are empowered and no public office holder enjoys immunity.
His remarks have since attracted public debate, with many Nigerians echoing concerns about leadership, governance and the future of the country.
Nigeria gained independence from Britain on 1 October 1960.