The Delta State Chapter of the International Friendship League (IFL) on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, hosted a commemorative program in Asaba to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary. Themed “Beyond Independence: Living in True Freedom,” the event brought together leaders from government, academia, business, and the church to reflect on the nation’s journey and the meaning of genuine freedom.
The IFL, a non-denominational network of influential professionals and community leaders, is known for its emphasis on values such as friendship, fellowship, fruitfulness, and focus.
A Call to Deeper Meaning of Independence
Chairman of the event, Mr. Reginald Bayoko, former Head of Service of Delta State, set the tone by urging Nigerians to embrace a deeper vision of independence. Recalling the 1960 handover of sovereignty, he noted:
“That moment gave us the right to write our own story as a sovereign nation. But independence was only the opening chapter. True freedom is the story we must all continue to write together.”
Quoting Galatians 5:1, Mr. Bayoko reminded participants that liberty is both a privilege and a responsibility. Declaring the event open, he charged attendees to pursue honesty, respect, and transformative outcomes for Nigeria.
Nigeria’s Historical and Political Journey
Prof. Robert O. Dode, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) of Dennis Osadebey University, provided a historical overview of Nigeria’s struggle with slavery, colonialism, military rule, and democracy. He described independence as “flag independence,” noting that neo-colonial influences still limit the nation’s sovereignty.
“It is like giving someone a goat but tying it to a post; the animal may appear free, but its movements are limited,” he said.
While acknowledging the achievements of 26 years of uninterrupted democracy, he stressed that true freedom requires opportunity, justice, and God-centered leadership.
The Foundation of Spiritual Freedom
Pastor Phillips Enweazor, Regional Overseer of Deeper Life Bible Church (Anioma Region), emphasized that political independence alone is insufficient.
“A man may appear successful outwardly, but if he is still bound by sin, he is not truly free. True freedom begins when a person is delivered from the power of sin,” he declared.
Economic Freedom and Responsibility
From an economic perspective, Mrs. Anyafulu Anthonia, Director of Finance and Accounts, Federal Ministry of Trade & Investment (FCT), linked financial discipline to both national progress and spiritual values. Drawing from Hosea 7:8, she likened Nigeria’s struggles to Israel’s misplaced priorities.
She advised Nigerians to adopt practical financial habits such as budgeting, saving, and long-term investing while avoiding debt traps and reckless spending. Yet, she stressed that genuine financial freedom comes from God:
“Every good and perfect gift is from above. Without God, all our efforts will end in vanity.”
A Unified Call for True Freedom
The event, moderated by Pastor Akpati Ogude of Deeper Life Church, concluded with special prayers led by Pastor Godwin Osabohien, Delta North Overseer of Deeper Life Church. He reminded participants that “Jesus is the only true freedom.”
Attendees—including pastors, academics, senior government officials, media leaders, and community influencers—described the program as both enriching and timely. It underscored the need for Nigeria to move beyond political independence and embrace true freedom in spirit, governance, economy, and daily living.
