Nigeria At 63: Films You Should See On Independence Day
Just in case you’re feeling a bit patriotic
- written by Joy Onu
- 5 min read
- 01 Oct, 2023
Nigerian Independence Day 1960Nigeria turns 63 today, and it’s so easy to focus on all the shege we’ve seen and lived through (Because it’s a lot). But today, we’re going to focus on the beautiful things, like the people, the culture, the music, the food, the clothes, and most especially, the movies.
Watching Nollywood movies on Independence Day should be a rite of passage, especially movies that take you back in time to a place we can only imagine, because most of us weren’t born then. Like I was saying, watching Nollywood movies on Nigeria’s Independence Day can be a great way to celebrate Nigerian culture, history, and talent.
So let’s get into it, yeah? Here are some Nollywood movie recommendations that showcase Nigerian culture, history, or patriotism, fitting for Independence Day viewing.
History Of Nigeria
This Jide Olanrewaju documentary is a must see for every Nigerian out there, it’s the best thing you’re going to watch on Nigeria’s Independence Day because it will take you on a whirlwind journey through the colonial and post-colonial era in Nigeria's history, you should really check it out.
Half of a Yellow Sun (2013)
Half of a Yellow Sun takes you back to a moment in time that is historical, it teaches you about Nigeria’s past, and it pushes you to want to find out even more. One thing I love about Half of a Yellow Sun is how it emphasizes the importance of togetherness as a country, regardless of our tribe and culture.
October 1 (2014)
This is the closest you’re going to get to experiencing Nigeria's Independence day for yourself, it literally takes you back in time, without the grime killings of course. In this movie, there’s a lot of richness that is attached to the way people lived during that time, the fashion, the music, the people, and the history of it all can be felt heavily.
P.S. Don’t watch this at night.
‘76 (2016)
Life in Nigeria isn’t easy, to say the least, but if there’s one thing we have going for us, it’s how beautifully diverse we are, how beautifully interwoven our culture is, our badass music, the great deal of talent we have in one nation, and everything in between. All of which should be celebrated, these movies provide a mix of historical, cultural, and contemporary themes that can spark reflection and celebration of Nigeria's journey to independence.
Enjoy your Independence Day movie marathon!