September was interesting, not because we explored different opportunities and topics, but because you were there with us, reading and engaging with us through our contents. To our readers, we want to extend our heartfelt appreciation for the love, for the share, and for the engagement. Without you, Arts Lounge is nothing.

In October, let’s do more. To our Nigerian readers celebrating their independence today, we want to congratulate you on this heroic day. For context to those who don’t know about Nigeria, the country gained its Independence on October 1, 1960. It was a stiff, intellectual battle between Nigerian nationalists such as Nnamdi Azikiwe, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Ahmedu Bello, Obafemi Awolowo, amongst others. Nigeria gained independence from colonialism with Nnamdi Azikiwe becoming the first President (ceremonially), and Abubakar Tafawa Balewa becoming the Prime Minister.

But the Imperial Majesty, The Queen Elizabeth, was still fully active in the country. So in 1963, Nigeria became a Republican state, which by default, The Queen’s influence to Nigeria was finally removed. Since then, the Nigerian state has been celebrating its Independence on October 1, 1960.

To other Africans who have celebrated their independence, we say happy independence to you. To those who are yet to celebrate their independence, we say happy independence to you in addy. To our non-African readers, we say happy new month to you.

May October be more blissful than September!

From Arts Lounge, with Love ❤️

Author

Paul Olayioye