The Delta State Chapter of the International Friendship League (IFL), On Wednesday, held a special event in Asaba to celebrate Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day under the theme: “Beyond Independence: Living in True Freedom.”
The International Friendship League (IFL) is a non-denominational group made up of influential and accomplished individuals who share values like friendship, fellowship, productivity, and focus.
Mr. Reginald Bayoko, former Head of Service of Delta State and chairman of the event, kicked off the discussion by urging Nigerians to look beyond the surface and embrace the deeper meaning of independence.
He reflected on the historic day in 1960 when the Union Jack was lowered, and Nigeria’s green-white-green flag was raised. “That moment marked our right to write our own story as a sovereign nation,” he said. “But independence was just the beginning. True freedom is a story we all must keep writing together.”
As he officially opened the program, Mr. Bayoko challenged the audience, saying, “May our conversations be honest, our laughter contagious, our disagreements respectful, and our actions bring real change to the nation.”
Panelist Prof. Robert O. Dode, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) at Dennis Osadebey University, took the audience through Nigeria’s journey from slavery and colonialism to military rule and democracy.
He called Nigeria’s independence “flag independence,” pointing out that neo-colonialism still keeps the country under external influence. “It’s like giving someone a goat but tying it to a post; it looks free, but its movements are restricted,” he explained.
While acknowledging the progress made over 26 years of uninterrupted democracy, he emphasized that true freedom is still ahead. “Freedom isn’t just about breaking chains; it’s about having opportunities, justice, and the right environment to reach our full potential,” he said.
Prof. Dode also stressed that no nation can thrive without leadership rooted in strong values and faith. “Nigeria is one of the most blessed countries in the world, but as Chinua Achebe pointed out, our biggest challenge remains leadership. Without godly, value-driven leaders, we won’t fully realize our greatness.”
Pastor Phillips Enweazor, the Regional Overseer of Deeper Life Bible Church in the Anioma Region, highlighted that spiritual freedom is the foundation for all other kinds of freedom.
He cautioned that being spiritually enslaved trapped by sin steals people’s true purpose. “Someone might look successful on the outside, but if they’re still caught in sin, they’re not truly free. Real freedom only starts when a person breaks free from sin’s hold,” he added.
From an economic viewpoint, Mrs. Anyafulu Anthonia, Director of Finance and Accounts at the Federal Ministry of Trade & Investment (FCT), spoke about how financial discipline, economic growth, and spiritual values are connected.
She drew a parallel between Nigeria’s challenges and Israel’s in the Bible, referencing Hosea 7:8 where Israel was called “a cake not turned.” “When a nation forgets God, it loses its direction and balance,” she warned.
On the subject of financial freedom, she explained, “It means having enough resources and the self-control to live without being trapped by debt, poverty, or material cravings. It’s about building wealth, managing money wisely, and creating multiple income streams.”
She encouraged Nigerians to adopt practical financial habits, including:
– Creating and sticking to a budget while keeping track of expenses.
– Saving regularly and investing in assets that bring in passive income.
– Steering clear of reckless spending and avoiding “get rich quick” schemes.
– Prioritizing long-term growth over shortcuts.
The panel discussion, which combined political history, spiritual insight, and financial advice, was praised by attendees as very insightful and a timely reminder that Nigeria’s independence must lead to genuine freedom in every aspect of life.
The event was moderated by Pastor Akpati Ogude of Deeper Life Church and closed with prayers and thanks to the organizers.
It brought together pastors, professors, senior government officials, media leaders, and community influencers, all reflecting on how Nigeria can go beyond political independence to embrace true freedom in spirit, governance, and economy.
Pastor Godwin Osabohien, the Delta North Overseer of Deeper Life Church, ended the program with a special prayer for everyone, stressing that Jesus is the only true source of freedom.
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