‘A better Nigeria: Is it possible?’

NIGERIA is a nation rich and blessed with several resources as well as talented and hardworking people.

Nigeria was widely recognised and respected for its strong agricultural power, particularly in the 1950s and 1960s, when agriculture was a major contributor to the nation’s economy and export earnings.

Back then, cocoa, groundnut, palm oil, and rubber were major exports that brought in significant revenue. The economy was relatively stable, and infrastructure, though limited, was functional and promising. There was a sense of pride in being Nigerian, and the global community saw the country as a rising force in Africa.

Then, an average Nigerian man could take care of himself and his family by providing the basic needs: food, clothing and shelter.

During the time when Late Chief Obafemi Awolowo was the premier of the then western region, he made education free for so many children and some of our leaders today are beneficiaries of that philanthropic deed.

However, in recent times, the reverse is the case. It seems the nation has become a shadow of itself. Our currency has lost its value. An average working class man in today’s Nigeria cannot afford to foot his bills let alone taking care of his family. This is the current situation in the country.

There are so many unemployed graduates wandering around having nothing tangible to do, so much effort and potentials going down the drain because there are no employment opportunities.

To make the matter worse, inflation has skyrocketed, and the cost of living has become un- bearable for the common man. Basic amenities like electricity, potable water, and good roads are either non-existent or in a dilapidated state.

Young people are increasingly leaving the country in search of greener pastures in what has

come to be known as the ‘japa’ – (emigration) wave, leading to a significant brain drain that is affecting sectors like healthcare, education, and tech.

It feels like nothing is working out anymore, there is now no dignity of labour, hard work now seems like a “scam” and a waste of time. People now believe that to be successful is all about who you know. This disillusionment has led to an increase in the crime rate. Cyber fraud is no longer hidden, there is a general loss of moral values among the youth.

Meanwhile, according to research, Nigeria through agriculture has the capacity to feed many countries in sub-Saharan Africa, while she can equally feed its citizens and export its produce to other African nations.

Factors such as outdated farming techniques, poor rural infrastructure, lack of access to credit for small-scale farmers, inadequate storage facilities, and insufficient government support are affecting the agricultural sector.

At almost 65, Nigeria is still referred to as a developing nation; despite all its potential. We continue to import goods that we can produce locally, thereby weakening our economy. It has been said over and over again that the educational system should be updated. Policies are often replaced with new administrations, leading to policy inconsistency and abandoned projects worth billions.

For us to move forward as a nation, I feel the government needs to focus more on im- proving the economy, not through total dependence on oil but also through agriculture, manufacturing, and technology.

A massive investment in renewable energy, such as solar and wind power will also solve our electricity crises. The creative industry comprising music, film, fashion, should also be promoted as it has the potential to generate jobs and project Nigeria positively to the

world.

Also, the quality of education at all levels should be improved, while focus should also be on skills relevant to the modern economy as this will make room for provision of employment opportunities and give platforms for the youth through education, skill development and job creation programs.

Contending corruption will greatly purge public institutions for transparency and accountability. Leaders must lead by example, and a national orientation program should be implemented to revive values and patriotism.

The leaders owe it to the future generations to create a Nigeria that works for everyone, where hard work is rewarded, justice is served, and opportunities abound.

A nation where dreams are not only valid but are achievable; a Nigeria that lives up to its name as Giant of Africa.

•Kolade Samuel Toluwalase, 300 level student of the Department of Mass Communication, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State.

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