The Decline of Nigeria: Gone Are The Things We Cherished
Today, the Nigeria of yesteryears is a far cry from what it once was. In particular, the omnipresent potholes that once marred many of its roads have become a symbol of the broken promises and neglected infrastructure that now define the nation. While wealthier regions like the northern states or the compounds of prominent individuals may have roads filled with less potholes, the majority of the country's infrastructure stands testament to its decay and underinvestment.
Education and Leadership
Education, once regarded as the cornerstone of societal progress, has taken a hit. Years ago, graduates from universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education were seen as the hope of the nation. However, today, the path to academic success and the subsequent battle for employment have become a series of intense prayers and uncertainties. The phrase ‘pray to graduate and pray to find a job’ encapsulates the grim reality faced by the youth, where securing a decent livelihood remains a daunting challenge.
Leadership too has become a source of disappointment. Gone are the days when leaders fought for the collective good of the nation. Today, leaders are often seen more focused on their personal enrichment and the welfare of their families. Figures such as the former Governor of Imo State, Rochas, have highlighted the ethical decline. The discovery of the numerous properties amassed from the State House has not only discredited his leadership but also served as a stark reminder of the corruption prevalent in the political landscape.
Security and Violence
Security has deteriorated to a point where the very name Nigeria evokes fear and frustration. The agitation for Biafra and the sentiments of SAI Baba from various regions are indicative of the growing divides. However, the most pressing issue is the pervasive insecurity that plagues the nation. Let's take the Benin-Ore-Lagos road as a prominent example. This once-cushioned route has transformed into a nightmare for travelers, fraught with the dangers of kidnap, harassment, and even physical assaults. Vigilantes, often posing as legitimate authorities, have overtaken the road, demanding proof and demanding tribute from passersby.
Further complicating matters is the RUGA settlements initiative, which has drawn widespread public criticism. This program, championed by figures like Mr. Clueless, seeks to establish unsustainable settlements without the proper planning and resources, exacerbating the existing security and social issues.
Local law enforcement, too, has become a significant source of frustration. In southern regions, police officers are often unfriendly, mistreating backpackers and young men with suspicion. A simple walk with a backpack can lead to fierce interrogations and the suspicion of being a fraud. The classrooms and farmlands of Nigeria are not safe either. Cows and herdsmen frequently intrude on these spaces, with tragic consequences. In some cases, farmers are violently attacked or even killed, only to be subjected to sexual violence that leaves them incapacitated.
Reality has shown that even the most fundamental aspects of societal well-being, such as a safe and secure environment, have been severely compromised in today's Nigeria. The nation stands at a critical juncture, where the dream of progress and prosperity for all has faded, leaving behind a landscape of despair and disappointment.
The decline in Nigeria is a multifaceted crisis that impacts various sectors of society. The pothole-strewn roads, the deteriorated educational system, and the pervasive insecurity are just the tip of the iceberg. The future of Nigeria depends on rekindling the hope and faith that once defined its people. Only through collective action and a renewed commitment to transparency, accountability, and equitable development can the nation rise from its current state of despair.