Divine Era Development and Social Rights Initiative

DEDASRI Independence Day Statement – Nigeria at 65

At 65, Nigeria stands at a crossroads. Our nation has endured decades of resilience and struggle, yet the promises of democracy, justice, and sustainable development remain unfulfilled for millions of citizens.

From the lens of our five thematic pillars, the story is clear:

Good Governance: Policies often fall short of transparency, inclusivity, and accountability. According to Transparency International (2024), Nigeria ranks 145/180 on the Corruption Perceptions Index, reflecting weak institutions and deep mistrust in governance.

Human Rights and Justice: Rights violations, inequities, and delayed access to justice continue to undermine the dignity and freedom of citizens. Amnesty International reports increasing clampdowns on civic space, while court delays deny justice to thousands.

Environmental and Climate Sustainability: Communities face worsening floods, desertification, and pollution. The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet, 2024) and UNEP reports warn that climate inaction is worsening food insecurity and displacements.

Security and Peacebuilding: Insecurity has become a national nightmare. Over 5,000 Nigerians were reportedly killed due to banditry, terrorism, and communal clashes in 2023 (Global Conflict Tracker). Without justice and fairness, the cycle of violence persists despite huge defense budgets.

Human Development: Poverty remains pervasive. According to National Bureau of Statistics (NBS, 2023), over 133 million Nigerians live in multidimensional poverty. Weak education and healthcare systems continue to stall progress.

A Call to Action: Building a Just and Sustainable Nigeria

At this 65th Independence anniversary, DEDASRI calls for a renewed national commitment anchored on:

Strengthening institutions for transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in governance.

Ensuring justice and human rights protection for every Nigerian, irrespective of class, creed, or status.

Prioritizing environmental sustainability and climate action as central to national planning.

Pursuing peace through dialogue, equity, and justice, not merely through force.

Investing in people—education, health, jobs, and social safety nets—as the true drivers of national transformation.

Nigeria must not only celebrate survival but also demand rebirth. At 65, we must rise above rhetoric and build a nation where governance works, justice is real, the environment is preserved, peace is secure, and human dignity is upheld.

DEDASRI reaffirms its commitment to advocate, mobilize, and act for this vision of a just, inclusive, and sustainable Nigeria.

God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria!

We see the future - A Just and Equitable Society where Sustainable Development thrives!

We have a big VISION!

A Just and Equitable Society where Sustainable Development thrives!