By Amb/Dr AYIBAEMI KEN-FASHOLA, KJW

October 1, 2024, marks Nigeria's 64th independence anniversary, a significant milestone in the country's journey towards nationhood.

As The Giant of Africa and it's most populous nation celebrates this landmark occasion, it is essential to reflect on the challenges that have hindered its stagnation, progress, the prospects for growth, and the way forward.

Nigeria's diversity, with over 250 ethnic groups and more than 500 languages, has often been cited as a strength. However, this diversity has also been a source of tension and conflict.

The divide between the predominantly Muslim North and Christian South has been exploited by politicians, leading to disturbing violence in almost every nook and cranny of the nation.

Also, the unequal distribution of Nigeria's wealth, particularly oil revenues, has fueled resentment and militancy in the Niger Delta, while the North is shying away from bringing its solid mineral resources to the common wealth.

Boko Haram's insurgency, banditry, and kidnapping have disrupted economic activities and threatened national unity, social growth, and overall harmony

Nigeria's economy has been stagnant, growing at less than 1% cumulatively during the past six years, far below population growth of 2.6%. The country faces:

- Soaring Inflation: Rates have skyrocketed, eroding purchasing power and leaving millions struggling to afford basic necessities.

- Unemployment: Over 23 million Nigerians are jobless, with youth unemployment at an alarming 42.5% ?.

- Poverty: 87 million Nigerians live in poverty, with the World Bank projecting this number to increase [2].

- Fuel Subsidy Removal: The recent removal of fuel subsidies has exacerbated economic hardship.

Bad Governance and Bad Followership

Effective governance is critical to addressing Nigeria's challenges. Unfortunately, the country has been plagued by:

- Corruption: Widespread graft has diverted resources meant for development, undermining public trust.

- Inefficient Institutions: Weak institutions have failed to deliver essential services.

- Lack of Accountability: Impunity has become entrenched.

Bad followership has also contributed to Nigeria's stagnation.

A lot of people close to power and can expose/correct misgovernance are not willing to do so because they don't want to rock the boat before it gets to their turn or that of their brother/kinsman.

It seems to be a plethora/lineup of Alibaba and the forty thieves.

- Apathy: Voter apathy and disengagement have enabled poor governance.

- Divisive Politics: Ethnic and religious sentiments often overshadow issue-based politics.

- Lack of Civic Engagement: Citizens? inaction has allowed leaders to act with impunity.

The Economy of Hunger and Despair

Nigeria?s economy has been in shambles, with skyrocketing inflation, widespread unemployment, and increasing poverty.

The consequences of poor governance and strangulating policies are stark: rising crime rates, increased social tensions, and a growing sense of hopelessness among citizens.

The United Nations' International Day of Peace on September 21 emphasized creating a culture of peace.

However, in Nigeria, economic sustenance is a prerequisite for peace and harmonious coexistence to be viable. Everyone is suspicious and defensive of the other as wanting to take away their bread. So there is a wanton infection of get all you can, and then, can all you get for you and yourself.

To salvage Nigeria and foster peaceful cohabitation, there is need for a state of emergency towards:

- Economic Revitalization: Implement policies promoting entrepreneurship and job creation.

- Invest in Human Capital: Prioritize education, healthcare, and skills development.

- Address Insecurity: Strengthen law enforcement and promote community policing.

- Inclusive Governance: Ensure equitable representation and accountability.

- Youth Engagement: Establish programs for positive engagement and mentorship.

Despite all these challenges and negative signals, Nigeria has:

- Vast Human Resources: A youthful population presents a significant opportunity for economic growth.

- Natural Resources: Nigeria's oil and gas reserves, as well as solid minerals, can fuel development.

- Innovation Hub: The country's thriving tech scene demonstrates entrepreneurial spirit.

Nigeria's future depends on timely addressing economic and social challenges, because the world, as a global village, is moving on with or without you.

You cannot afford to be left behind either in slack on static mode.

As Chinua Achebe would say: This is our chance.

There's an urgent need for us to

- Demonstrate Accountability: Leaders must be transparent.

- Foster Private Sector Growth: The current taxes and policies are far from endearing. We need to encourage entrepreneurship and foreign investment.

- Prioritize Human Development: Invest in education, healthcare, and social welfare.

- Promote National Unity: Encourage interfaith and interethnic dialogue.

By acknowledging and addressing these issues and others that'll be identified, Nigerians can work towards a more peaceful, prosperous, and united nation.

I come in peace and wish us all a hopefully prosperous 64th independence anniversary and a nation where peace, justice, equality, and progress shall come to reign.

God bless Nigeria, a great nation and a land of good people.

?Amb/Dr Ayibaemi Ken-Fashola, KJW is an Alumnus of the UN Peace University, US Peace Institute, distinguished UN Peace Ambassador, former Chairman of The Governing Council of Global Peace Foundation, Deputy President of the Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators, 3rd National Deputy Dean of the Association of Ambassadors for Peace, et-al

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