The State of Nigeria and the Way Forward

Nigeria, often called the “Giant of Africa” and known as the world’s most populous black nation, is teeming with potential, resilience, and hope. Yet, despite its wealth of resources and the vibrant energy of its people, the country faces complex challenges that have hindered its growth. To move forward, we need first to understand the state of Nigeria and the way forward

Drawing insights from the CS Global Partners World Citizenship Report 2024, this article explores where Nigeria stands today and what we must do to build a better future for everyone.

Nigeria’s Economy

When we consider Nigeria’s state and future prospects, our economy is one of the first things that comes to mind. Nigeria has one of the largest economies on the African continent, with a GDP of over $400 billion.

But we also have problems. Inflation raises prices, and the naira (our currency) keeps losing value. Because of these issues, Nigeria ranks only average in providing good economic opportunities compared to other countries. Also, Nigerians’ financial freedom is very low.

Nigeria’s young people are very creative, especially in tech and business. For example, we have Futterwave, founded by Olugbenga Agboola; Paystack, co-founded by Shola Akinlade and Ezra Olubi, was so successful that Stripe acquired it for over $200 million; Temie Giwa-Tubosun founded LifeBank. This platform uses technology to deliver blood and medical supplies to hospitals in urgent need. The list is endless, with more young Nigerians breaking barriers and doing great things in the entertainment, tech, fashion, and creative sectors.

These success stories show that Nigeria’s young people have what it takes to lead in business, technology, and the arts. To help them grow their ideas and businesses even further, they need a more supportive environment, fairer regulations, easier access to funding, and strong government backing. This is important to young people and essential in building a strong and diverse economy.

Safety and Security

You cannot discuss the state of Nigeria and the way forward without discussing security. Right now, Nigeria faces serious security problems. Terrorist groups like Boko Haram and ISWA are still active in the northeast, and there is a lot of crime, like kidnapping and robbery, in many cities. Also, numerous cases of herdsmen and farmers clashing in states like Plateau and Benue.

Because of this, Nigeria ranks very low in safety and security worldwide, as stated in the CS Global Partners World Citizenship Report. Although this issue has lingered in the nation, it can be changed. You might ask how.

Working better with neighbouring countries, sharing intelligence, and improving our police and military efforts can make Nigeria safer. A safer Nigeria will also mean more Nigerians can travel easily to other countries, and more investors will want to bring their money here, which is great for the economy.

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Quality of Life

Another important area that the CS Global Partners World Citizenship Report examined is Nigerians’ quality of life. We struggle in areas like education, healthcare, and basic infrastructure, like good roads and clean water.

For example, even though Nigeria offers free primary education, about 10.5 million children between the ages of 5 and 14 are not in school (Data from UNICEF). This is worse in rural and northern parts of the country, especially for girls.

Many hospitals lack sufficient staff or adequate equipment. Bad roads also make it hard for medical help to reach people quickly, and we are experiencing a brain drain of medical doctors, which further worsens the situation in the healthcare sector. As stated in the Punch Newspaper, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, reported that more than 16,000 Nigerian doctors have left the nation in search of greener pastures in other countries over the last five to seven years.

Still, there is hope. Some parts of Nigeria are improving in technology, roads, and electricity. We must ensure these improvements reach every corner of the country, not just a few areas. When everyone has access to good schools, hospitals, roads, and electricity, life will be better for all Nigerians. As citizens, we have a role in not vandalising public infrastructures and voting for the right leaders.

Strategic Partnerships: Nigeria’s Global Position

When we talk about the state of Nigeria and the way forward, we must also look at Nigeria’s role in the world. Nigeria is a key leader in West Africa and has a strong influence on ECOWAS.

However, countries like Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have left ECOWAS recently, which creates new challenges for Nigeria’s leadership in the region.

On the global stage, Nigeria has recently become a partner country in BRICS, an alliance comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. If Nigeria leverages this new partnership effectively, it could lead to more trade deals, investments, and job opportunities.

This is a call for Nigeria to find a balance and build strong friendships with both BRICS and Western countries to maximise the country’s opportunities. We shouldn’t just leave it as a sole leadership issue; we, as individuals, have a role to play because Nigeria exists because it is made up of Nigerians.

Nigeria’s Youth: Our Brightest Hope

One of the best things about Nigeria’s state and its way forward, as stated in the CS Global Partners World Citizenship Report, is the energy and potential of our young people. Daily Trust states that more than half of Nigerians are under 25! They are smart, hardworking, and full of ideas.

Nigerian youths are already making waves in various fields, including technology, music, movies, fashion, and agriculture. They are not waiting for the government; they are creating their opportunities.

But imagine how much more they could achieve with better support! We must invest in education, give young people access to capital to grow their businesses and provide mentorship programs to help guide them. Our young people are not just the future; they are the present.

This shouldn’t be left to the government alone. As Nigerians, we should support one another, not tear people down. If you know of an opportunity that can help a fellow young person, please share it with them.

Leadership and Good Governance

When discussing the state of Nigeria and the way forward, leadership is key. Nigerians are tired of corruption, bad governance, and empty promises. They are demanding leaders who are honest, transparent, and ready to work for them.

For Nigeria to move forward, leaders must focus on real solutions, such as fighting corruption, fixing our electoral systems, strengthening our courts, and investing heavily in health, education, and infrastructure.

Leaders must think long-term, not just about winning the next election. Nigeria needs policies to improve life for ordinary Nigerians and help businesses grow. If you are in a leadership position, what you do today is an indication of what you will do if given a greater platform. In the upcoming election, avoid selling your vote or being swayed by fake promises. Let’s insist on voting the right persons into the right positions.

The Nigerian Spirit: Our Greatest Strength

Even with all the difficulties, Nigerians are known for one thing: resilience. No matter the challenge, Nigerians find a way to survive, hustle, and thrive. It can be awkward, but it is a highly admirable quality.

This spirit is Nigeria’s greatest strength, and it can be seen everywhere: in the markets, in small businesses, in tech hubs, in classrooms, and on the streets.

The journey ahead won’t be easy, but with unity, hard work, and faith, Nigerians can build the country of their dreams. As an individual, how do you treat and relate to individuals of other ethnicities and religions?

This simply states that together, we can create a Nigeria where safety, good jobs, quality education, and healthcare are realities for everyone. And this starts with you and what you are doing today.

READ MORE: Nigeria cracks down on Undocumented Foreigners from May 1st

Looking closely at Nigeria’s state, we see a country full of challenges but even more full of possibilities.

Nigeria has the resources, the brains, and the strength to become a world leader. But to get there, we must:

• Fix our economy
• Improve security
• Invest in healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
• Support our young people
• Build strong international partnerships
• Demand good governance

The dream of a better Nigeria is not impossible. It starts with believing that change is possible and working daily to make it happen.

The world is watching, and more importantly, Nigerians are ready. This is our time. Let’s build the Nigeria we all deserve.