Barely few minutes to 48th Nigerian independence celebration, the level of development is still rated very low both internationally and locally. Could it be that we were not ripe enough to stay on our own before our agitation for political and economic independence was granted by our colonial masters? And we should not forget in a hurry that our crisis began just immediately after crude oil was discovered on Nigeria soil in 1963. Since then, Nigerian economy has been monoculture. The proceeds accruing from sales of the black gold were rather lavished on white elephant projects than developmental purposes.

Look at South Africa, the presence of white people still impact on their economy more positively. Rather than celebrating 48 years after independence, we had better go back to the drawing board and see how we can repair the damaged economy. People now jostle for political appointments, at all costs, since they are more of egocentric motives than communal services. Nobody cares what happens to the less privileged. Graduates are rolled out from our colleges and universities without any hope of jobs. Power sector which is supposed to be the engine room of our accelerated development is seriously epileptic. Do not forget that Michelin, manufacturer of tyres, had to close down its plant in Nigeria because of astronomical cost of production due to generating power solely on diesel.

Corruption is a common nightmare in Nigerian polity. People either bribe or force their way to get hold of power just to steal public fund. The mind set is now unhidden; the so-called anti-corruption agents are not sacred cows either. It has now become a cankerworm deeply eaten into the fabrics of our nation. Only God can save us. Again, Nigerian federal system of government is ridiculously expensive. Offices are duplicated throughout the three tiers of government for no just course.

In the year 2000, World Health Organisation reported that life expectancy in Nigeria was 47 years, but now 43 years. In Malaysia, life expectancy is now 70 years. Our hospitals are mere consulting rooms. None of our universities is ranked among the best world 500, but South African universities are being acknowledged in the world. So, what good is Nigeria known for?

On a final note, I would be delighted if federal government could declare Oct 1 as national planning and restructuring day rather celebrating mediocrity called "Independence Day"