NIGERIA @ 55 | Abdulsadiq Ahmed Jari - Prospects and Challenges of Nigeria at 55 [OPINION]

Nigeria has witnessed development and challenges in its quest for nation-building. The peak of its development was independence and self-rule. Its golden time was during the First Republic. It’s most challenging time is the current insecurity. Against all odds, Nigeria is still a single country under the same leader.

Our dear nation is yet to take its rightful place in the comity of nations. Corruption, electoral malpractice, rigging, bribery, bad leadership, immorality etc still remain an impediment to our aspirations. Economic development and industrialization are gradually staging a comeback again as in the 1960s.

Literacy and educational development are fast becoming more accepted. A lot of young Nigerians now have masters and doctorate degrees in various fields, both in Nigeria and abroad. A lot having the best results in the foreign schools they attended.Civility and civilisation is finding its way into Nigeria. Just about 12 years ago, mobile networks were first allowed into Nigeria. Now , Nigerian is one of their largest markets in the world.

A lot of associations and NGOs are now operating in Nigeria. A lot of them are contributing positively to the development of the country. Many are still underway, as people now see vividly the importance of such associations. Democracy is consolidating its stay. It  is 15 years now since the return of civilian leadership. For the first time 2007, we witnessed transition of power from one civilian government to another civilian administration – that was another milestone achievement. On the contrary, we still have a lot of challenges to overcome if we truly want to be a nation to reckon with.

Corruption still remains a negative factor in Nigeria. The leadership of the country must take it serious. It must be stopped for our nation to be a disciplined and a prosperous nation.Literacy and education must be made free and accessible. Since Nigeria is a mixed economy country, basics like education must remain in the hands of the government. No to privatization of educational sector.

With the population of over 90 million youths from the age of 15-45, employment and jobs opportunities should be made a long and mid-term top priority plan of the both the federal and state governments. Stable and prosperous youths remain the answer to Nigeria’s peace and security. This is because it is the youths that are being turned to political thugs, thieves and even militants that will later come back and fight the government. Other challenges include sectional and tribal sentiments and divisions between Nigerians.

The government should try to unite the people of the country to have a united and strong country..

We remain in prayers for our beloved fatherland (Nigeria) and our leaders. Let God guide them aright and protect us.

*written by Abdulsadiq Ahmed Jari

Join us as we sing the National Anthem 'modern version' [sic]

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