"Each October 1st provides an occasion for Nigerians to commemorate their country's Independence from British colonial rule in 1960. Today, on Sunday, October 1, 2023, Nigeria celebrates its 63rd anniversary of independence. While it's undeniable that Nigeria has not achieved all it aspired to at its inception, there are several noteworthy milestones that both the nation and its citizens can take pride in.

There is no denying that Nigeria still faces challenges in realizing its full potential, given its abundant human and natural resources. However, the journey since October 1, 1960, has witnessed remarkable achievements worth celebrating.

In the spirit of Nigeria's 63rd Independence Day, Pulse has compiled a list of commendable accomplishments that the country has achieved:

1. Attaining Republic Status in 1963:

   Although Nigeria Gained Independence from the United Kingdom in 1960, it remained under the indirect rule of the British monarchy until 1963. The adoption of a new constitution in 1963 marked Nigeria's transition into a Federal Republic, thereby ending colonial interference.

2. Return to Democratic Rule in 1999:

   After 16 years under various military regimes, Nigeria returned to a democratic form of government in 1999. This period, marked by military leaders like General Muhammadu Buhari, General Ibrahim Babangida, and the late General Sani Abacha, brought about socio-economic challenges. However, democracy was restored in 1999 following General Abacha's demise.

3. Establishment of First-Generation Universities:

   Between 1960 and 1970, Nigeria made significant strides in education by establishing its first-generation universities. These institutions, including the University of Nigeria, Nsukka; the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife); Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; the University of Lagos; and the University of Benin, played a crucial role in promoting tertiary education.

4. Diplomatic Achievements:

   Nigeria has established its influence on the African continent through its leadership in campaigns to end apartheid in South Africa, as well as efforts to restore democracy in nations like Liberia, Guinea-Bissau, Cote d'Ivoire, The Gambia, and Sao Tome and Principe. Nigeria also led the ECOWAS Cease-fire Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) in resolving civil conflicts in Liberia and Sierra Leone.

5. Nollywood's Global Impact:

   In 2000, Nigeria's film industry, Nollywood, became the world's second-largest film industry, surpassing Hollywood in annual film output.

6. Achievements in Arts, Culture, and Literature:

   Nigerian authors like Wole Soyinka and Chinua Achebe received global recognition, with Soyinka winning a Nobel Prize in Literature in 1986, and Achebe's novel "Things Fall Apart" becoming a literary classic.

7. Sporting Excellence:

   Nigeria has achieved sporting success, including winning the African Cup of Nations in 1980 and the Under-17 World Cup in 1985. Nigeria's Dream Team I secured a gold medal in football at the 1996 Summer Olympics.

8. Peaceful Transition of Democratic Governments:

   In 2007, Nigeria witnessed a peaceful transfer of power from outgoing President Olusegun Obasanjo to another democratically elected president, marking a significant milestone in the country's democratic journey.

9. Leadership in Multinational Organizations:

   Nigerians have risen to leadership positions in prestigious multinational organizations. Notable figures include Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as Director-General of the World Trade Organization, Akinwumi Adesina as President of the African Development Bank, and Amina Mohammed as Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations.

10. Impactful Business Leaders:

    Nigeria boasts successful businesspeople who have made a significant impact, both nationally and internationally. Figures like Aliko Dangote, Folorunsho Alakija, Tony Elumelu, Allen Onyema, Mike Adenuga, and Abdulsamad Rabiu have contributed to economic growth and development.

These accomplishments reflect Nigeria's resilience and progress since gaining independence in 1960."