Happy Independence Day Nigeria! 7 reasons to be proud to be Nigerian

Story highlights

Nigeria gained its independence on October 1 1960

We asked you to tell us what makes you a proud Nigerian -- here are the best answers

CNN  — 

Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation and its biggest economy, celebrates Thursday 55 years of independence from British colonial rule.

To mark the key anniversary, we asked you to tell us what makes it great being Nigerian and also share with us your proudest moments and pictures using the #CNNAfrica hashtag on Twitter.

The wide-ranging answers highlighted how far the country has come over the years, as well as the challenges that still need to be tackled going forward.

Check out some of the best responses below and go through the gallery above to read about the key moments that have shaped Nigeria since breaking the chains of colonialism.

‘United we stand’

Football glory (of course)…

nigeria history 5

…and food to die for

Unique approach to beating adversity

Communal spirit

Determination and talent

Resilience, passion and hope