Prominent Niger Delta activist and human rights advocate Ann-Kio Briggs has voiced deep disappointment over Nigeria’s developmental trajectory since gaining independence in 1960, describing the nation’s current state as a betrayal of its founding promise.
Speaking during a televised interview commemorating Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, Briggs reflected on the optimism of her childhood and the hopes that independence would usher in prosperity, unity, and global leadership for the largest Black nation in the world. Instead, she lamented that Nigeria has failed to capitalize on its oil wealth, squandered opportunities for growth, and perpetuated cycles of poor governance and exclusion.
“We hear Dubai once came to borrow money from Nigeria when they discovered oil. Today, they have the tallest buildings and invest globally—including in Nigeria. Yet we, who turned them away, have nothing to show,” Briggs said.
Briggs attributed Nigeria’s stagnation to decades of failed leadership, misplaced priorities, and the exclusion of women from governance. She emphasized that the Niger Delta, despite powering the nation’s economy, remains underdeveloped and neglected.
“From 1960 till now, we should have done far, far better. The Niger Delta has screamed for development and better governance, but we have not done well,” she added.
She also criticized the country’s democratic institutions, noting that corruption, election rigging, and judicial compromise have eroded public trust. “We are operating with a constitution written by the military. We do not deserve the name ‘Giant of Africa’. When I see that phrase, I only see ‘ant’,” Briggs remarked.
On gender equity, Briggs called for greater inclusion of women in politics, arguing that cultural barriers and systemic exclusion have stifled progress. “Women are always in a struggle within a struggle. We must participate not just as women, but as human beings,” she urged.