Nigeria @65: Supporters Club Urges Unity, Patriotism Ahead of Independence Day

Nigeria @65: Supporters Club Urges Unity, Patriotism Ahead of Independence Day

As Nigeria prepares to celebrate its 65th Independence anniversary on October 1, the Nigeria Football Supporters Club (NFSC) has called on citizens to embrace unity, patriotism, and positive contributions toward nation-building.

Founded in 1955, the NFSC is widely regarded as Africa’s oldest and foremost football supporters’ club, with a legacy of promoting Nigeria’s image and fostering national unity through sports.

Unveiling its line-up of activities for the anniversary in Lagos on Thursday, NFSC National Chairman, Reverend Samuel Ikpea, said the celebrations will feature an Independence Day Walk across Surulere, the National Stadium, and Ojuelegba, culminating in a grand party at the club’s Funsho Williams Avenue headquarters, where about 60 new members will be formally inducted.

“As a group known for uniting Nigerians through our unwavering football support, the NFSC is calling on all Nigerians to rally round the nation. Nigeria will on October 1 mark 65 years of independence, and we must stand together to support our own,” Ikpea told journalists.

He stressed that patriotism and positive engagement were vital for overcoming the country’s challenges.
“Though the nation grapples with difficulties, the best we can do is to get involved mentally and practically by projecting Nigeria positively and making meaningful contributions in our little corners. Building a nation requires collective effort. While constructive criticism is healthy, mere condemnation and lamentations will not help. We must all unite mentally and physically to build Nigeria,” he said.

Ikpea also endorsed the Federal Government’s chosen theme for the anniversary, “Nigeria @65: All Hands on Deck for a Greater Nation,” describing it as timely and reflective of the country’s realities.
“This theme is a reminder that we must all put aside differences and work together—government, private sector, civil society, sports stakeholders, and citizens—to forge a Nigeria of peace, prosperity, and progress,” he noted.

The NFSC Chairman disclosed that the celebrations will also feature some Nigerian sports icons and ex-footballers who have contributed to promoting unity through football.

“The anniversary party will bring together NFSC members, sports legends, and well-wishers. Importantly, we will also induct about 60 new members as part of our drive to strengthen the NFSC family and expand our mission of promoting Nigeria through sports,” Ikpea added.

He urged Nigerians to use the anniversary as a moment of reflection and recommitment to building a greater nation.