Today is independence day. The first of October 1960 is a date to which for two years past Nigeria has been eagerly looking forward. At last our great day has arrived, and Nigeria is now indeed an independent sovereign nation.
This is a wonderful day, and it is all the more wonderful because we have awaited it with increasing impatience, compelled to watch one country after another overtaking us on the road when we had so nearly reached our goal. But now we have acquired our rightful status, and I feel sure that history will show that the building of our nation proceeded at the wisest pace: it has been thoroughly worthwhile and it has shown to the world that we are a people who, having gained their independence, will know how to use it.
Our first concern has been the welfare of our people. We are confident in our determination to create a great nation. I am pledged to a destiny of service to my country and to my fellow countrymen. Let us pray that we may have the wisdom, the courage and the perseverance to discharge our trust.