As Nigeria celebrates 65 years of independence, the Citadel School of Government (CSG) has sparked a powerful new tradition, one rooted in reflection, dialogue, and action. On Saturday, October 4, 2025, CSG hosted its inaugural Dialogue Series, themed “Nigeria at 65: Historical Reflections, Futuristic Projections.” The event marked a bold step toward reshaping civic engagement and leadership in Nigeria.

The event opened with the national anthem, setting a tone of unity and purpose. In his welcome address, Omoaholo Omoakhalen, Executive Director of CSG, shared the vision behind the Dialogue Series: to democratize learning and equip citizens to lead in seven vital areas: policy entrepreneurship, public administration, politics, law, civic activism, citizen engagement, and corporate governance. “We want to raise leaders who can think, act, and influence change in their own spaces,” he declared, igniting a sense of mission among attendees.

The highlight of the day was a stirring keynote by Professor Emeritus Akinjide Osuntokun, Nigeria’s first Ambassador to Germany and a respected historian. In his lecture titled “There Was a Country: Nigeria’s Journey So Far,” he traced Nigeria’s evolution from colonial rule to its current struggles with corruption and division. His message was clear and hopeful: “The problem with Nigeria is not in our stars but in ourselves.” He urged the nation to embrace meritocracy, education, and ethical leadership—drawing inspiration from countries like India, Germany, and Singapore.

The interactive sessions that followed were electric. Participants, onsite and online, grappled with questions like: What does independence mean today? What opportunities have we missed? How do we correct the mistakes of the past? The responses were rich with insight and optimism. Many emphasized the need for value-based education, national unity, and ethical governance as the pillars of a brighter future.

Dr. Tunde Bakare, founder of CSG and Serving Overseer of the Citadel Global Community Church, closed the event with a powerful session titled “Bridging the Gap to the Future.” Drawing from his experience as a lawyer, clergyman, and statesman, he challenged Nigerians to learn from history and lead with courage. “ who do not learn from history,” he warned, “will reproduce its abundance until they become history themselves.”

The Dialogue Series is more than an event, it’s an engagement for positive change in Nigeria. CSG has positioned itself as a hub for civic learning, leadership development, and national transformation. As one participant beautifully put it:

“If every Nigerian cleans their corner of corruption, the nation will shine brighter.”

This is just the beginning. CSG plans to host more thought-provoking conversations that connect learning with leadership and inspire practical solutions to Nigeria’s most pressing challenges. Stay tuned. Join the dialogue. Shape the future.