Nigeria on my mind

Nigeria, formed in 1914 is made up of more than 250 ethno-linguistic groupings. It is a heterogeneous nation, a combination of different traditions, a plural society. It has experienced a civil war of three years, a military rule between the years of 1966 and 1999 and civilian rule till date. A developing country, Nigeria consists of 36 states which were carved out and created from four initial regions namely the north, east, west and mid-west. This article seeks to expose the critical problems having Nigeria, identifying likely causes and proffering possible solutions to make it a better country amongst the comity of nations.

Firstly, the level of corruption in the country is relatively high and saddening. Corruption has posed a deadly parasite that is eating deep into the fabric of Nigeria as corruption and economic turmoil often go hand in hand.

Secondly, the issue of heterogeneity and ethnicity has proved a major problem in our country. It encourages marginalization and disunity and this is unhealthy for our nation, Nigeria.

Furthermore, poor leadership which is characterized by a pursuit for selfish interest and also the failure of leaders to secure the rights of the citizens proves to be prevailing in our country. This is therefore a hindrance to the successful running of our country.

Another problem is the non diversification of the economy. Our country has rich mineral resources but there is over dependence on crude oil, being the major export earning resource. The current fall in the price of oil has magnified the impact of the non diversification of the economy.

Finally, the effect of military rule is a major problem our country faces. Many citizens are still ‘militarized’ in their minds and work on order-and-force unconsciously.

Looking at these problems, I believe there should be unity in diversity. There should be evolution of integrative mechanism amongst the diverse groups so that there will be national interests rather than parochial sentiments.

It may be difficult to eradicate corruption but with a consistent effort, it could be reduced to the barest minimum. Government positions should be made less attractive to people and there should be increased consciousness of the citizens about national issues that will bring about patriotism, national integration and prevent the get-rich-quick propensity of the citizens.

Regarding poor leadership, there should be enhanced participatory culture where the leaders will know that power rests with the people. There should also be genuine free and fair elections. Also, leaders should endeavour to fulfil all their political promises.

As for the non diversification of the economy, the country should focus on other natural resources available and not only on crude oil. Industries should be protected and citizens should be encouraged to acquire different skills and trades that will be of benefit to them and the country as well.

Finally, concerning the effect of military rule, there should be adequate and qualitative management of civil-military relations which would assist in reducing insurgencies.

In spite of Nigeria’s heterogeneous set up, it should actually serve as a blessing in disguise rather than a barrier if the benefits of the diversities are tapped into. Once the root causes of these problems highlighted have been understood and the solutions proffered are adopted, Nigeria will come out stronger and better as a nation.

Osarennoma A. Ogbeide (Secondary school leaver)