Hope for the future is the lifeline of many Nigerians, even when the present feels bleak. For decades, this hope has kept the nation moving despite countless challenges. Yet, the light we long for remains dim as darkness overshadows the progress we desperately seek. This paradox—clinging to hope amidst despair—defines the Nigerian experience today.
From the onset, our foundation for leadership was flawed. The so-called “future leaders” lack the training, opportunities, and inspiration to lead effectively. The education system, which should nurture excellence, is plagued by mediocrity. Primary schools—where the seeds of learning are sown—are staffed by unqualified teachers. How can we expect greatness when those entrusted with shaping young minds are ill-equipped to do so?
This systemic failure is evident in the statistics: Nigeria has one of the highest out-of-school children’s rates in the world. Our students face outdated curricula, underfunded schools, and a lack of basic resources. Yet, the government remains indifferent, ignoring the cries of children yearning for knowledge and a brighter future.
For Nigerian undergraduates, the road to graduation is fraught with endless strikes, uncertainty, and frustration. The Academic Staff Union of Universities has become a nightmare for students, with academic calendars disrupted year after year. Many students spend more time at home than in classrooms, their dreams of a better future hanging by a thread.
Imagine if technology could inspire our leaders to become more empathetic and proactive. Unfortunately, many of our leaders prioritise personal gain over the public good. Take Kaduna State, for example, where Governor Uba Sani has been largely invisible in terms of impactful projects. Tragedies like the Tidin Biri incident—where innocent citizens were attacked during a religious gathering—highlight the government’s inability to protect its people. The victims received no justice, only apologies labelled as “mistakes”.
These failures extend beyond Kaduna. In Sokoto and other states, similar incidents reveal a pattern of negligence and lack of accountability. Leadership should be about service and foresight, yet too often, it is marked by apathy and short-term thinking.
Insecurity is another defining challenge. Banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism now dominate the headlines. The Nigerian army, once a symbol of strength, often arrives too late to prevent tragedies. Retired soldiers have spoken out about systemic corruption, revealing that government officials supply outdated weapons to our forces, leaving them ill-prepared to combat well-equipped criminals.
Yet, there are examples that Nigeria can draw from. Countries like Rwanda, once torn apart by genocide, have emerged as symbols of resilience and reform through strong leadership and a commitment to national unity. Nigeria, too, has the potential to overcome its security challenges by investing in modern technology, intelligence gathering, and professionalising its security forces. Building trust between the government and its citizens is essential in tackling these issues.
The economic hardship of today makes yesterday’s struggles seem easier in comparison. Former leaders, once criticised for their incompetence, are now remembered with a sense of nostalgia. Nigerians once looked to President Buhari with hope, yet his tenure ended with a stain so deep it cannot be washed away. Despite this, political apathy and barriers led many to vote for someone within his circle, hoping for change. Today, the cycle of regret continues.
Taxation, though essential for development, has become a point of contention. While stabilising the economy requires a robust taxation system, the impact on vulnerable populations must not be ignored. Policymakers can learn from countries like Botswana, where resource wealth has been managed prudently, and tax revenues are reinvested into healthcare, education, and infrastructure to uplift the people. A taxation system that prioritises transparency and inclusivity can achieve both economic growth and social welfare.
The youth—the lifeblood of the nation—remain neglected. How many graduates today can boast of meaningful employment or opportunities to thrive? Empowering young Nigerians with skills, entrepreneurial grants, and scholarships is not just a moral duty; it is an economic imperative. Countries like India have created thriving startup ecosystems by investing in youth entrepreneurship. Nigeria could adopt similar models, fostering innovation and reducing unemployment.
This crisis of leadership even extends to sports, a unifying force for Nigerians. The Super Eagles, once a source of national pride, now struggle to secure their place among Africa’s top teams. Despite having talented players excelling in international leagues, the team’s performance under the Nigerian flag mirrors the inefficiencies of the government—sporadic victories with no sustainable progress. Revamping the sports sector, with a focus on grassroots development and better management, can restore Nigeria’s glory on the global stage.
Despite these challenges, I refuse to give up hope. Nigeria is a nation of resilience, blessed with untapped potential and remarkable talent. Our forefathers—leaders like Abubakar Tafawa Balewa—laid the foundation for a nation destined for greatness. They dreamed of a Nigeria that would shine as the Giant of Africa, and their sacrifices should not be in vain.
However, rekindling this vision requires collective effort. Citizens must hold leaders accountable, demand transparency, and participate actively in nation-building. Youths have a crucial role to play. Movements like #EndSARS demonstrated the power of young Nigerians to challenge injustice and demand reform.
President Bola Tinubu, who has been a prominent figure in Nigerian politics and democracy, is now steering the country in a direction that aligns more with his vision than the people’s desires. While some continue to praise his leadership, others question the path we are headed. The ongoing sackings across government ministries and institutions suggest that something is amiss. While some of these decisions—such as the recent shake-up at the Central Bank of Nigeria—may be justified, the true impact remains to be seen. The public remains vigilant, wondering whether these actions will result in positive change for Nigerians.
The government must step up. Leaders like President Tinubu have a unique opportunity to channel the spirit of our forefathers and lead with integrity, empathy, and vision. They must prioritise education, invest in security, and create opportunities for the nation’s youth. Only then can we begin to heal and rebuild.
Nigeria’s journey is far from over. The challenges are immense, but so are the possibilities. With collective will, strategic action, and unwavering hope, we can create a future where Nigeria’s light shines brightly, unshaken by darkness.
Hope alone is not enough—but it is the spark we need to ignite the change our nation deserves.
