Reclaiming Nigeria: The Time Is Now

Reclaiming Nigeria: The Time Is Now

The pace of global change is rapid, with nations progressing and defining brighter futures for their citizens. Take China, for instance. Despite its ongoing challenges with human rights and democracy, it has effectively harnessed its population of over a billion to create…READ MORE…

Asia’s strongest economy and the second-largest in the world, behind only the United States. In just half a century, China has transitioned from an agrarian society to a leading global manufacturing powerhouse, boasting a GDP of around $18.5 trillion and remaining one of the fastest-growing economies today.

Other Asian countries, such as India, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, and Vietnam, have similarly emerged as significant global players. In the Middle East, Saudi Arabia has utilized its Vision 2030 initiative to boost its GDP to approximately $1.2 trillion, with expectations of a 4.5% annual growth fueled by ambitious reforms and forward-thinking leadership. The kingdom’s goal to attract 100 million visitors annually by 2030 was achieved seven years early, prompting an increase in the target to 150 million. The privatization of Saudi Aramco, based in Dhahran, exemplifies the country’s strategic push for economic diversification, positioning it among the world’s top six companies, alongside giants like Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, Alphabet, and NVIDIA.

Countries in the Middle East, including the UAE, Iran, Israel, and Qatar, have also shown remarkable economic progress. Notably, Qatar, with a modest population of approximately 3 million, is among the wealthiest nations globally. The stark contrast between these thriving economies and Nigeria’s reality prompts a profound inquiry: Why does Nigeria fall so far behind despite its recognized potential?

Reflecting on Nigeria’s Leadership

Is it that Nigerian leaders are oblivious to global developments? Do they lack the requisite knowledge and skills to make informed decisions? Or have they simply lost the vision needed for the Nigerian project? While indulging in lavish lifestyles, acquiring properties abroad, and enjoying the benefits of developed nations, leaders at home drive luxury cars through Nigeria’s crumbling infrastructure, seemingly unaware of the inequalities surrounding them. What holds us back? Is it mere insensitivity, or are we confined by a narrow perspective?

In Nigeria, politics is often deemed a corrupt game. Many principled individuals shy away from engaging, believing that the system contradicts their values. This attitude has discouraged capable minds from entering politics, thus depriving Nigeria of the transformative leadership it requires. If the so-called “good” individuals had distanced themselves from leadership in successful nations like the UAE and Singapore, those countries would not have achieved their current status. Remaining in our comfort zones only perpetuates stagnation. To incite change, active participation is essential.

The current style of politics and leadership in Nigeria is perilous. The recklessness and bravado are counterproductive, reminiscent of outdated cowboy myths. If we persist along this trajectory—characterized by ineffective economic measures, excessive borrowing, flawed policies, and divisive politics—the future appears bleak.

The idea of “Emilokan” has taken a dire turn, potentially reducing Nigeria to a mere ghost nation, with isolated enclaves of prosperity for a privileged few on Bourdillon Street and Queens Drive. This is not the vision that President Tinubu envisioned after dedicating over 35 years to Nigeria.

Breaking Free from Excuses

Many are quick to blame Nigeria’s troubles on colonial legacies and military rule. This rationale is weak. After 25 years of uninterrupted democracy, leaders should have laid the groundwork for meaningful progress. Instead, successive governments have led the nation further into decline. Once regarded as Africa’s giant, Nigeria now embodies shameful labels—home to the world’s highest poverty rates and among the most insecure places for living and business.

The prevailing leadership ethos, characterized by entitlement and reckless brinkmanship, is worrisome. Should Nigeria continue on this path, it risks becoming a failed state. The strongman mentality no longer fits in an era of global discourse and free expression. A new direction is essential for Nigeria’s leadership.

The Need for Self-Examination

The Catholic tradition of the “examination of conscience” serves as a guiding principle for Nigeria’s political elite. This practice encourages self-reflection, honesty, and a commitment to the greater good. For leaders, such introspection is vital for cultivating empathy, integrity, and accountability. By recognizing moral failings and committing to change, both individuals and nations can progress ethically.

Corruption, tribalism, and elite hypocrisy hinder Nigeria’s potential. Political leaders in both executive and legislative branches must deeply contemplate the ongoing moral failures that cloud our vision and dull our judgment. Just as global leaders united to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, Nigeria’s leaders must also join forces to address the root causes of our national malaise.

With increased awareness, both leaders and citizens can shift their mindsets. Nigeria can regain its glory if its leaders prioritize ethical governance and the common good. True legacy lies in service, not the selfish pursuit of wealth and power. Those who embrace simplicity often find greater fulfillment than those who compromise their integrity for material gain.

Leadership and Education: The Twin Pillars of Progress

Both leaders and citizens must gain a keen awareness of their surroundings and global context. A nation’s quality of leadership is reflected in the well-being of its people and the sanctity of human life. Effective leadership inspires citizens to be productive and prosperous, providing a clear vision for the country’s future.

An informed and educated citizenry is fundamental to a thriving democracy and society. It equips individuals to critically assess issues, make informed choices, and hold leaders accountable. Educated citizens drive innovation and advocate for sustainable policies, ensuring that governance benefits the collective good. By prioritizing quality education, we can empower our people to actively participate in shaping a just and prosperous future.

A Call to Action

Today, Nigeria appears to be on the brink, its reputation tarnished, and often looked down upon by the international community. However, all is not lost. We can reinstate pride in our green-white-green flag. Other nations, such as China, India, Singapore, and the UAE, made decisive commitments to forge new paths away from their past, and as a result, they have risen to prominence.

I urge all Nigerians of goodwill—men and women alike—to rise to this pivotal moment. Let us shed tribal and religious biases, abandon clannishness and bigotry, and unite in pursuit of national rejuvenation. A united Nigeria can achieve incredible things, providing a pathway to recover the ‘years eaten by the locust.’

May 2025 bring transformation for Nigeria. With God’s guidance and our collective efforts, we can carve a new course toward prosperity and greatness, helping our people and Africa to rise and shine.

As Antoine de Saint-Exupery aptly stated, “Our task is not to foresee the future but to enable it

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