The Nigerian independence day is around the corner with its attendant shows, beach parties, carnivals,etc. These are activities that are set up to amuse and entertain citizen and friends of citizens alike that would attend. Inspite of these activities that momentarily steals d reality of everyday naija life, one can not help but entertain doubts about our 'supposedly' independent state. Are we truly liberated? What is the way forward for us? Can our present state of affairs guarantee a better future for us? How can we right the wrongs of today in order to ensure for a glorious tomorrow? These are thoughts that patriotic Nigerians should dwell on, on a historically significant day like the Independence day. The average Nigerian youth should think of how to make and effect changes, political and economical, within his immediate environment, while the average 'pot-bellied and aged' politician should think of how to relinquish the reins of corruption,in favour of transparency, accountability, and early retirement. The youths should think of how to rise up and be politically involved in the affairs of our beloved country. Nigeria is 49, going on 90! Wow! But what have we really got to show for these years, a near-crumbling economy that features strikes from almost all sectors of the economy while the President goes on a pleasure trip to Saudi Arabia to exchange pleasantries and commission a university? Does a man whose house is on fire chase rats? Definitely not! Our President should be lectured on this. Hey lecturers, we need someone to give a lecture here, oh, I almost forgot, the lecturers are on strike because their demands have not been met; thereby rendering lots of youths idle, with a lot of time to wreak havoc on the society. At least, in the times of Baba Sege, we could dream and also actualize the dream of punching his bloated frame with bare-knuckled words. But the present government is not well endowed with meat and it doesnt carry a pot-belly around. If we punch too hard, we might have a medical crisis, which would warrant medical flights abroad, thereby wasting our money on foreign economy. No, we wont punch with bare knuckles,we would wear gloves. Or shouldn't we? That aside, this is our beloved country and we are celebrating 49years of colonial independence...enjoy your beach parties and shows but ponder and decide to take up arms (not militancy), mental arms, and fight for what you believe in i.e the survival of naija. We would make it if we believe in togetherness and personal change. Happy Birthday, Naija. We love you.