Nigeria’s misplaced priorities

geria-mapThe misplacement of priorities is a major problem militating against development and economic growth in Nigeria.

A situation where taxpayers’ money meant for state development is used to sponsor some parts of the population in the name of pilgrimage is a misjudged way to delve into the people’s subconsciousness and imaginations about their needs and wants.

It is an unfair way to share the dividends of democracy, especially now that governments at all levels have failed in their responsibilities to provide basic amenities like good roads, pipe-borne water and electricity for the people.

Religion is a private matter, an act between individuals and a chosen deity. It is clearly stated even in the Constitution of Nigeria that, “The government of the federation or of a state shall not adopt any religion as a state religion.”

Then, why should the government systematically adopt some religions by default?

Now, it is obvious that the government is bigger than the laws that formed it,  bluntly showing that laws are made only for the poor with the sole aim of controlling, dominating and suppressing them.

The billions of naira spent yearly by all the state governments and ministries  could transform the economy of the country and alleviate poverty and destitution if judiciously utilised. The people will benefit as against a select few benefitting unlawfully at the expense of all.

First, such billions of naira can be used to expand agricultural projects in each state of the federation. This will create employment opportunities, attract foreign investors, increase internally generated revenue, boost the naira value through less importation, encourage agricultural ventures and reposition the nation towards self sufficiency.

This also will make the Federal Government to focus on other meaningful areas of development.

Second, the money can be used to develop the tourism sector of the economy up to international standards.

This will attract millions of tourists across the world that will generate billions of naira for the nation and the states, reducing crude oil dependency and aiding rapid human and resource development across board.

Third, state governments can invest such money in state-owned power projects. Power facilitates a stable economy, but the government has repeatedly failed for more than 30 years, and is still confused.

Nigerians are still waiting for the hero who would rewrite the sad story of electricity.

• Adebusoye Francis

[email protected]