The Nation Newspaper

Category: Letters

  • Land Use Act and its inherent challenges

    Land Use Act and its inherent challenges

    Sir: Land is a unique gift of nature to mankind. It has so much importance to man. Land is a prime factor of production, platform for sustaining all human activities and source of all material wealth. Nations all over the world puts in place structures and measures to regulate land ownership, allocation of land for various purposes of development, and more importantly measures to balance the interests of the government, the land-owning class and the landless class.

    Land Use Decree (Act) was promulgated March 29, 1978 by the then Federal Military Government. The Act abolished the existing land tenure systems which encouraged land holding without an obligation to develop them, fragmentation and uncoordinated alienation, hoarding speculatively for value appreciation and without precise documentation. and vested all land in each state of the federation solely in the governor of the state who would hold such land in trust for the people and who would be responsible for the allocation of all land in all urban areas to individuals residing in the state and to organizations for residential, agriculture, commercial and other purposes.

    Government sought promotion of rapid socio-economic transformation of the country through rational land use and administration of land for the benefit of all Nigerians.

    However, the Act has over the years incited a lot of controversy. The most contentious aspect of the Act is enshrined in Section 3 which assigns to the governor of a state seemingly enormous power to designate by order parts of non-urban areas of the state to become urban area and, by so doing, extend the frontiers of urban area. The implication is that it enlarges the governor’s area of influence, thereby making some ambitious governors semi gods in their domains. Some overzealous governors have hidden under the power conferred on them in Section 3 of the Act to harass and intimidate perceived political opponents by either revoking their Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) or confiscating their title deeds on land acquired legitimately.

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    Another challenge which calls for concern is the impact of the provisions of the Land Use Act on housing. Housing has been identified world-wide as one of the basic necessities of life. For the survival of man, provision of shelter, refuge, comfort, security and dignity is required. And this is expected to be functional, attractive and identifiable within a neighbourhood setting, enabling of family needs, aspirations and preferences.

    Contrary to the purpose of enacting the decree, which was to make land available to all for housing and economic development, the Act has rather prevented access to land for majority especially for development, as many state governments are holding on to land under the guise of compulsory acquisition for proposed development. The leasehold interest on land conveyed under the Act by the state, also reduces the investment potential of the land to the would-be investors and promotes a cash and carry ideology, as a title holder is usually looking at making immediate gains on the land.

    The time for a review in tune with current realities is long overdue. Fettered with institutional failure, dearth of political will and inherent defects, the law has not been able to achieve most of its objectives. The sections of the act which are not in tandem with modern trends should be thrown out. If this is done, it would go a long way in bringing about sanity in land tenure, ownership and acquisition as well as housing provision in Nigeria. The government must take urgent steps to remove this aspect of our laws which still wears a military helmet.

    •ESV Umoru Yakubu Aiyegbeni,Lagos.

  • Why there should be no leniency for drug traffickers

    Why there should be no leniency for drug traffickers

    • By Neta Dorcas

    Sir: I feel compelled to highlight a pressing issue that poses a threat to the very foundation of our society: Drug trafficking. Nigeria’s youth, who constitute 70% of the population, are trapped by this complex problem, putting our future at great risk.

    The recent arrest of Christian Ifeanyi Ogbuji at Murtala Muhammed International Airport with a staggering N4.6 billion worth of cocaine underscores the seriousness of this situation. What’s even more concerning is that Ogbuji had previously been arrested just 16 months prior for ingesting 93 pellets of cocaine. Despite being sentenced to a two-year imprisonment with the option of paying a fine of N3 million, he quickly returned to his illegal trade. This pattern is common among drug peddlers, who view the current sentencing options as nothing more than a temporary inconvenience.

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    Such repeat offences are a direct result of the lenient penalties in our judicial system. No doubt the NDLEA under Buba Marwa has made impressive strides in intercepting massive drug consignments and dismantling cartels, however, these efforts are consistently undermined by the judicial option of fines. Drug traffickers see these fines as insignificant deterrents.

    The success of the NDLEA in intercepting large quantities of drugs and apprehending high-profile traffickers shows that with the right tools, we can combat this problem. However, the lack of severe penalties, such as mandatory prison sentences, limits the impact of these efforts.

    As Nigerians, we must urge the National Assembly to take bold and immediate action. The current NDLEA Act must be reviewed to eliminate the option of fines for drug trafficking offences. Harsher penalties, including mandatory prison sentences, are crucial to dissuade traffickers who are currently encouraged by a system that allows them to resume their illicit activities with minimal disruption. This is especially critical given that over 14 million Nigerians are trapped in substance abuse, which could lead to the unravelling of the nation’s social fabric.

    We must also address the root causes of drug trafficking, including poverty, lack of education, and unemployment. Addressing these issues requires investing in rehabilitation programs, creating economic opportunities, and supporting communities affected by drug abuse.

    It is time for the National Assembly to adopt a zero-tolerance stance. We owe it to our children and the future of Nigeria. Leniency towards drug traffickers must end now. Our law enforcement agencies need the full support of the judicial system. Only through collective efforts, from the government to civil society to individual citizens, can we hope to eradicate the deadly grip of drug abuse and trafficking and secure a healthier, drug-free future for Nigeria’s youth.

    • Neta Dorcas,

     Kaduna, Kaduna State.

  • Urgent need for mass transportation

    Urgent need for mass transportation

    • By Elvis Eromosele

    Sir: In recent years, the cost of transportation, like everything else, has skyrocketed, putting immense pressure on citizens. This surge is not just a local issue, but one deeply intertwined with national and global factors. The removal of fuel subsidies, the devaluation of the naira, and the volatile nature of international oil prices have all contributed to an unprecedented rise in petrol costs—from N185 per litre before the subsidy removal to a staggering N900, on average. This hike in transportation costs has left many Nigerians struggling, particularly in urban centres where daily commutes are unavoidable.

    For a country where many rely on public transportation to navigate their daily lives, the surge in petrol prices has had a ripple effect. Transportation costs have risen in direct correlation with fuel prices, affecting everything from the price of goods in local markets to the overall cost of living. Public transport fares have doubled, in some cases tripled, in a matter of months, further straining the pockets of average Nigerians who are already grappling with inflation and economic uncertainty.

    The removal of fuel subsidies—while a necessary economic policy to stem the haemorrhaging of government funds—has nonetheless increased the financial burden on everyday Nigerians. Furthermore, the devaluation of the naira has diminished citizens’ purchasing power, leading to higher costs of imported goods and services, including vehicle parts and maintenance for public transport. These issues are compounded by the fluctuations in the global oil market, leaving Nigerians at the mercy of global economic shifts beyond their control.

    Government intervention is required to address the escalating costs of transportation. One immediate solution is to invest heavily in mass transportation schemes that are affordable, reliable, and widely accessible to all citizens. The government must explore and expand existing transportation systems to relieve a population already reeling from inflationary pressures.

    In Lagos, the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system is a commendable initiative that has provided affordable transport for millions of residents. However, the need for an extension of BRT corridors to cover more areas of the state and increase capacity is urgent. Expanding the BRT network will ease the traffic burden on roads, reduce the cost of transportation for more residents, and provide a reliable alternative to expensive private vehicle ownership or commercial buses, which are now charging exorbitant fares due to rising fuel costs.

    Other states must take a leaf from Lagos’s book. The success of mass transit schemes like the BRT shows that with proper planning and investment, efficient public transport systems can provide significant relief to citizens. States like Kano, Rivers, and Kaduna, among others, should look into creating their mass transit systems, tailored to the unique needs and topography of their regions. By doing this, these states can mitigate the transportation crisis and help lower the cost of living for millions of Nigerians.

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    Beyond implementing new mass transit systems, there is also an urgent need to maintain and expand existing public transportation infrastructure. Roads need to be repaired and properly maintained, and there must be investment in modern vehicles, which are more fuel-efficient and less prone to breakdowns. Additionally, alternative fuel sources such as compressed natural gas (CNG) should be explored, as they offer a cheaper, more environmentally friendly alternative to petrol.

    The reality is that a well-developed mass transportation system is not a luxury; it is a necessity. At a time when citizens are being squeezed financially from all sides, the government must provide a safety net. Affordable and reliable public transport can play a crucial role in reducing the cost of living and making life more manageable for millions of Nigerians. This is particularly important in urban areas, where many rely on public transport to commute to work, access essential services, and maintain their livelihoods.

    By investing in mass transportation, the government can also reduce road congestion, lower the demand for fuel, and promote a more sustainable, environmentally friendly mode of transport. Moreover, mass transit schemes will create jobs, stimulate local economies, and contribute to the overall development of Nigeria’s infrastructure.

    The government should also explore expanding transportation options. It could consider introducing monorails and, where suitable, water transport systems like ferries.

    Now, more than ever, there is an urgent need for government intervention to address this issue. Mass transit systems offer a sustainable and effective solution to the transportation crisis, providing relief for residents and easing the financial burden caused by inflation.

    •Elvis Eromosele,

    elviseroms@gmail.com

  • Nigeria @64: Still searching for good leadership

    Nigeria @64: Still searching for good leadership

    • By Ibrahim Mustapha

    Sir: Nigeria will tomorrow mark 64 years of independence. At 64, it has been one lamentation to other from Nigerians. India which attained political independence the same date with Nigeria has developed economically and politically, while Nigeria is still lagging behind in all aspects of human development.

    After Nigeria obtained independence on October 1, 1960, it adopted parliamentary democracy with regional governments. It is trite to say that the country’s road to political and socio-economic development was built by first generation leaders who despite their political differences put their people and the country at the front burner.

    After 64 years of independence, Nigerians are still celebrating and reflecting the exemplary leadership qualities displayed by the likes of Ahmadu Bello (Sardauna of Sokoto), Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo and Tafawa Balewa of blessed memory. All the four regions under their purposeful leadership witnessed massive socioeconomic development, ranging from infrastructure development, agricultural revolution to educational rebirth. There was an intense competition between the regions with each one tried to outshine one another in a competitive manner.

    Until the military incursion in 1966 which terminated the First Republic, ruined and shattered the dream of better Nigeria, the country looked promising with all sign of greatness attached to it. Added to the catalogue of Nigeria’s woes was the civil war that dragged the country into murky water of uncertainty and deep suspicion. Today, the evil spirit of 1966 coup d’état and civil war is still haunting the country. Though, successive military regimes had put various measures to heal the wound arising from the ashes of past mistakes through creation of states and other programmes to promote national unity and cohesion, Nigeria is still battling with lack of unity, ethnic baiting and deep suspicion among its diverse ethnic religious composition. In recent time, there have been subtly moves by some ethnic or regional warriors to agitate for separatism. At 64, Nigeria’s peace, unity and development are being threatened by some dark forces.

    Nigeria’s 64 years of independence coincides with 25 years of uninterrupted democracy in the country. It is still debatable, whether our 25 years democratic journey has positively impacted the lives of over 220 million Nigerians or not. For instance, World Poverty Clock estimated that over 133 million Nigerians are multi-dimensional poor. The numbers may have increased with the twin policies of fuel subsidy removal and floating of naira.

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    Despite the facts, Nigeria is blessed with abundant human and natural resources, it’s pace of development has remained low due to corruption entrenched by our political leaders. These leaders across the three levels of government have been accused for mismanagement of resources meant for development. In the last 64 years of independence, billions of dollars that have accrued to the country as revenues have been squandered. It is sad to note that the leadership recruitment process is riddled with lack of transparency leading to the emergence of unprepared and corrupt leaders.

    For the country to catch up with other developed countries, it needs to redefine its leadership recruitment process and improve governance by adopting a transformational leadership approach, which prioritizes the nation’s interests over personal gains. This style of leadership focuses on inspiring and empowering citizens to work towards a common goal. It seeks to strengthen institutions and ensuring they are independent and effective in checking corruption and promote good governance.  That leadership style seeks to implement measures to increase transparency and accountability, such as open budgets and regular audits, encouraging active citizen participation in governance through education and inclusive decision-making processes and above all implementing policies that promote economic growth, reduce poverty, and address inequality.

    By consciously adopting these strategies, Nigeria’s leadership can improve governance, promote economic growth, and enhance the well-being of its citizens.

    • Ibrahim Mustapha,

     Pambegua, Kaduna State.

  • Youths are still targets of extortion

    Youths are still targets of extortion

    • By Pius Okaneme

    Sir: The youths in Nigeria are targets of extortion by the army and the police. The checkpoints mounted along various roads have become stops to intimidate young people into surrendering their money. The army and the police will look into transport vehicles at the road blocks and point to decent looking young boys and ask them to come out. They will ask them to disembark from the vehicle with their backpacks. They will point them to walk to a corner in the case of the police, and the army will walk them into their vehicle.

    Recently, on my trip through Orlu Local Government Area, Imo State, the vehicle I was traveling in stopped at the army checkpoint. The driver demanded that all passengers follow the routine of coming out of the vehicle at the beginning of the checkpoint and walk beyond the cordoned area. Most passengers take the inconvenience of this activity in stride as they see it as a chance to stretch their legs. Hawkers surround the area to appeal to the tired and hungry passengers to patronize their merchandise.

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    We all converged at the other end of the checkpoint waiting for the driver to come through. The bus pulled over and most passengers started to go in to take their seat only for the driver to come out and walk toward the back of the vehicle. It was evident that he was not going there to ease himself. Some passengers were getting impatient. A lady then said, “Were you not aware that the soldier asked the young passenger to come out of the bus?”

    Everybody waited for about 30 minutes until the passenger returned. He said that the soldier took him into their vehicle and asked him to give them his phone. When he asked them why they were detaining him, the soldier told him that he looked like a “Yahoo boy”. That he looked so well dressed. He mildly responded to them that it is now a crime for a young person to dress well. They told him that if he did not want to spend the whole day with them, he should give them #5,000.00. He complied because he was afraid that they would harm him.

    Nigerian roads are now tollbooths for the army and the police. They openly collect bribes without shame. The level of decadence in law enforcement on the roads is killing the spirit of society. With due respect to the risks associated with their work, the behaviour of some of the personnel officers their authority. They must restore dignity to law enforcement so that the citizens will value them and not look at them as robbers attacking the youths at gunpoint.

    •Pius Okaneme,

    Umuoji, Anambra State.

  • Africa’s demand for permanent UNSC seat

    Africa’s demand for permanent UNSC seat

    • By Matthew Alugbin

    Sir: Nigeria has renewed calls for the United Nations to consider granting a permanent seat for the African continent on the Security Council in its characteristic effort to live up to the mantra of being the Giant of Africa. This demand is not a new one. Former President Muhammadu Buhari made the same appeal during previous UN General Assemblies. Leaders from Ghana, South Africa, Sierra Leone, and other notable African countries have also, at different times, advocated for two permanent seats on the Security Council to represent the 54 nations within Africa and the over 1.2 billion people who live on the continent. They believe this would create a more representative and inclusive Security Council.

    The Security Council currently consists of five permanent members and 10 non-permanent members. The permanent members are China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The special privilege of the permanent members is the veto power, which allows them to block any resolution they oppose, regardless of the support it has from other members. Fela Anikulapo Kuti’s 1989 song, “Beast of No Nation,” long criticised this arrangement:        “One veto vote is equal to 92…or more, or more; Which kind sense be dat, na animal sense.”

    Seeing that the interests of the UN were not aligned with those of Africa, Fela concluded and labelled the organisation “egbekegbe,” meaning a bad society. Yet, here is Africa now demanding a world where all nations can dialogue as equals. This organisation was created when most African nations were still struggling under colonial rule. The confidence of African leaders in making this demand is commendable, but it is important to understand that such demands are not achieved through rhetoric alone.

    There are several questions African leaders must ask themselves and answer before evaluating the weight of their demand. To be considered for the Security Council, what qualifications must Nigeria or any other African country meet? How many missiles can Africa produce? Can a nation struggling to contain banditry, militancy, and other domestic issues qualify for such a position?

    Is qualification based solely on population or the number of nations on a continent? Does Africa truly need the UN? Did the Security Council’s permanent members plead or beg for their seats? Who desires a United Nations with a disunited Africa? A permanent seat on the UN Security Council is not the only path to global influence. Despite their lack of permanent seats, economic powerhouses like Germany and Japan wield significant influence in the world today. They did not get that through the demand for permanent seats in the UNSC.

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    Undoubtedly, Nigeria and Africa’s seemingly unending love for borrowing and reliance on external aid will not end soon. Meanwhile, beggars cannot be choosers. For instance, most African nations do not produce their own weapons, vehicles, medicine, or technology. Yet, they want a say in world affairs and be among the decision-makers. While military power remains a factor, other criteria, such as economic influence, diplomatic capability, and global peace and security contributions, determine international recognition. Unfortunately, many African nations are yet to fully leverage their strengths in these areas.

    It seems that this demand will now be part of the speeches read at every General Assembly, and no one can tell how many future Nigerian presidents and African leaders will continue to make such appeals. The African Union has made significant strides, particularly with the African Continental Free Trade Area and peacekeeping efforts. Notwithstanding, it should initiate steps vital for reducing reliance on external aid. It should focus on building a united and self-reliant continent. Africa must foster regional integration, enhance economic self-sufficiency and build coalitions with other regions. Africa must realise that might, not rhetoric, determines or guarantees a permanent seat. If African nations do not make concerted efforts to build the continent, their leaders will continue to make routine demands to empty chairs at every UN meeting. Africa cannot continue to beg for seats at someone else’s table.

    •Matthew Alugbin, PhD,

    Edo State University, Uzairue.

  • Emphasizing practical learning for stronger future in education

    Emphasizing practical learning for stronger future in education

    • By Samuel Jekeli

    Sir: Education is the foundation upon which the future of any nation is built. In Nigeria, this foundation has long been cemented in theoretical knowledge, leaving students often ill-equipped to apply what they have learned in real-world situations. Across primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions, the traditional education system places an overwhelming emphasis on memorization and theoretical teaching while neglecting the practical skills necessary for success in today’s dynamic world.

    The need for a paradigm shift is clear: Nigeria’s education system must evolve from the current model to one where 10% of the time is spent on theoretical talks and 90% on practical, hands-on learning. This rebalancing would foster a generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and skilled professionals who can meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world.

    Nigeria’s educational system is often criticized for producing graduates who are “book-smart” but “street-dumb.” From a young age, students are taught to regurgitate facts, memorize definitions, and cram for exams that emphasize theory over practical understanding. This system not only stifles creativity but also fails to prepare students for the complexities of real-world challenges.

    The goal of education should be to produce critical thinkers who can solve real-life problems. While theoretical knowledge is important as a foundation, it is through practical application that students learn to think critically, solve problems, and innovate. In science, for example, conducting experiments, building models, and working with laboratory equipment helps students understand complex concepts better than mere memorization ever could. By focusing 90% of the time on practicals, students are encouraged to engage in hands-on activities that challenge their thinking, creativity, and ability to work through real-world issues. This type of education fosters innovation, making it easier for students to create solutions that improve society.

    Nigeria’s high youth unemployment rate is a testament to the mismatch between the skills students acquire in school and what the job market demands. Employers consistently bemoan the fact that graduates lack practical skills, and many companies spend significant time and resources retraining new hires to make them employable. A 90% practical education would bridge this gap. By exposing students to practical experience early on, they become job-ready by the time they graduate. Schools should introduce vocational training, internships, and hands-on projects that allow students to work with industry tools, understand workplace environments, and develop a range of practical skills. This would make Nigerian graduates more competitive both locally and globally.

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    Nigeria’s future lies in the hands of entrepreneurs and innovators who can develop solutions to pressing problems such as poverty, infrastructure gaps, and technological advancement. However, innovation thrives in a practical environment, not in a system where students are trained to memorize formulas and pass exams. Practical learning environments encourage students to experiment, fail, try again, and ultimately create. They foster an entrepreneurial mind-set by allowing students to start projects, test prototypes, and engage with real-world scenarios. Imagine a curriculum where secondary school students learn by building sustainable farming models, designing apps, or creating small businesses. Such an education would lay the groundwork for a generation of innovators ready to reshape Nigeria’s economy.

    The shift from a theory-heavy system to a practical-focused education requires strategic planning and investment across all levels of education.

    At the primary level, educators should introduce practical learning early on by incorporating more hands-on activities, such as science experiments, group projects, and interactive learning tools. This encourages curiosity and helps students understand the practical implications of what they are learning.

    In secondary schools, vocational training should become a core part of the curriculum. Schools need to partner with industries, organizations, and artisans to expose students to real-world skills. Projects such as building machines, creating art installations, or even running school businesses would allow students to apply classroom knowledge in practical ways.

    At the tertiary level, universities and colleges must collaborate with industries to integrate internships, fieldwork, and hands-on projects into every course. Whether it is engineering students working on real construction sites or business students managing live projects, practical experience should be the cornerstone of higher education. Universities should also invest in modern labs, workshops, and technology centres to give students access to the tools they will encounter in their future careers.

    The shift to a practical-based education system is not just necessary but urgent. By rebalancing the scales and dedicating more time to hands-on learning, Nigeria can build a future where its youth are empowered, its workforce is skilled, and its economy is vibrant. The time for change is now.

    •Samuel Jekeli,

     Centre for Social Justice, Abuja.

  • On the latest hike in Monetary Policy Rate

    On the latest hike in Monetary Policy Rate

    Sir: It’s already in public domain that Monetary Policy Rate has just been increased to 27.25%. Rising from its meeting in Abuja, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) decided to move up the August position of 26.75% by 50 basis points. 

    Even though, MPC resolved to maintain the Liquidity Ratio (LR) at 30%, they also effected increase in another monetary policy tool – Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR), both for the commercial and merchant banks which also went up by 50% basis points, from their previous position in August.

    This writer feels strongly that the apex bank is too much in a hurry to effect the increase in MPR by 50% basis points, having just hiked the rate in August to 26.75%. Even though, CBN have their reasons for the hike, especially the recent sudden increase in the price petroleum products with particular reference to petrol (PMS), nonetheless, this increase is surely against the expectation of the investing and banking community, and may be counter-productive to economic activities.

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    MPR, a benchmark policy interest that prescribes the basis for other macro-economic interest rates in Nigeria should be treated at all time with sensitivity that it deserves.

    For emphasis, it’s the rate that Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) borrows and lends to commercial and merchant banks, as well as the rates at which those banks prescribe their lending and deposit activities to their clients.

    In the present circumstance the nation found itself, what CBN ought to have considered is to attempt to maintain the August position with a view to exhausting effect of 26.75% on the economy, more-so, when the global MPR too is fast easing.

    Of course, there is no doubt that the MPR increase would further tighten the economy, as it would make it difficult for the real sector and other users of fund to access fund for the manufacturing and other economic activities.

    •Kola Amzat (FCA, FCIB)Lagos.

  • Nigeria’s cycle of cruelty

    Nigeria’s cycle of cruelty

    Sir: In Nigeria, a disturbing trend continues to unfold across generations—a form of cruelty passed down like a family heirloom, permeating the very fabric of society. This madness is evident in the country’s political system, employment system, educational system, and every other structure that affects the mental health of the growing youth. The result is a country trapped in a rocking chair of backwardness—moving frenetically but getting nowhere. The systems meant to propel the country forward are perpetuating a cycle of exploitation, exclusion, and frustration that crushes the aspirations of the younger population.

    At the heart of this madness lies Nigeria’s political system, where corruption and greed dominate. Generations of leaders have come and gone, but the narrative remains the same—leaders who enrich themselves while the masses struggle in abject poverty. The promises of change are empty rhetoric, leaving the youth disillusioned and embittered.

    If the political system dashes the dreams of young Nigerians, the employment system buries them in frustration. The labour market is saturated with youth who are overqualified yet underemployed, forced into jobs that do not pay living wages. The requirement for years of experience even for entry-level jobs, coupled with nepotism, makes gainful employment an elusive dream for many.

    This system is sustained by a generational cycle of exploitation where the wealthy and powerful monopolize opportunities while the rest languish in underemployment or unemployment. The youth, desperate for jobs, are often taken advantage of—expected to work long hours for meagre pay, sometimes even without pay, in the guise of internships or probation periods. The result: A disenchanted generation, frustrated by the realization that merit and hard work alone do not guarantee success.

    Education, the bedrock of development, is also a casualty of this madness. Nigeria’s educational system, once a source of pride, has deteriorated into a breeding ground for mediocrity. From underfunded schools to outdated curricula, the system is not designed to equip young people with the skills they need to thrive in a competitive world.

    The problem is not just with the infrastructure but also with the very culture of learning. Cheating, examination malpractice, and bribery are rampant, producing graduates who lack the critical thinking skills needed to drive innovation and change. Education has become a formality, a paper chase, rather than a tool for empowerment. This generational transfer of mediocrity ensures that the youth are ill-prepared to face the challenges of the modern world, perpetuating a cycle of intellectual poverty.

    The cumulative effect of these systems is a mental health crisis that is often overlooked. Young Nigerians are caught in a vicious cycle of expectations that are never met. The pressure to succeed in a society that offers little support breeds anxiety, depression, and a sense of worthlessness. The culture of silence around mental health further exacerbates the problem. Young people are told to “toughen up” and push through their struggles, leading to a generation that suppresses its pain rather than seeking help.

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    The frustration of living in a system that appears rigged against them often leads to extreme behaviours—violence, crime, substance abuse, and sometimes even suicide. This generational trauma is rarely addressed, and as one generation of youth grapples with these issues, they pass on their frustrations to the next, creating a perpetuating cycle of mental distress.

    This madness has kept Nigeria in a perpetual state of stagnation. Like a rocking chair, the country expends energy but remains stationary. The youth, who should be the driving force for progress, are weighed down by the failures of systems that should nurture them. Instead of moving forward, Nigeria remains trapped in a cycle of mediocrity, corruption, and despair.

    The madness that has defined Nigeria’s systems for decades can no longer be ignored. The country cannot afford to keep moving in circles while its youth suffer under the weight of systemic failures. Breaking this cycle requires courage, vision, and a commitment to change at all levels. Only then can Nigeria free itself from the chains of backwardness and begin to move forward into a future where the potential of its youth is fully realized.

    This is the generation that can break the rocking chair and chart a new course for the country—but only if the systems that bind them are dismantled. The time for duplicating madness has long passed. It’s time for innovation, inclusion, and a Nigeria that works for all.

    •Samuel Jekeli,Centre for Social Justice, Abuja.

  • Let’s talk on the best form of government

    Let’s talk on the best form of government

    Sir: Nigeria’s first Republic (1960-1966), from the North, West, East and to the Mid-West regions, arguably, represent our golden era in terms of our progressive journey to both regional and national developments. It remains debatable on whether our progressive journey in the First Republic was either due to the “quality” of our then “leadership” from all the “regions” and or it was the “governance” structure operated in the country at that time and or both.

    In my view, no Nigerian from whatever parts of the country he or she comes from, especially the common man who the present situation does not favour, should be afraid of any constitutional changes or even a brand new constitution in form of either a regional system if it will serve our best interest and or the continuation of the present system with some amendments. Our major concern from all parts of the country should be about the search for patriotic leadership and a system that will serve the interest of the majority.

    The sad reality of our dear country now shows that the vast majority are worse off. The system only works for the tiny minority of our elite. We must have a national conversation and or a dialogue on a system that works for the vast majority. The beneficiaries of the present system will go to every length to ensure that it remains.

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    In my thought, a southern president is not the problem of the North neither a northern president the problem of the South. Out of our 64 years of independence, the North led the country for 48 years while the South led for 16 years. Out of the 16 leaders we have had so far, 12 are from the North while only four are from the South yet the North has the highest poverty, unemployment, and illiteracy rates in the country. No ethnic group or region and or religion is in an island of milk and honey and or bread and butter. We are all in its together!

    The agitation for restructuring and or constitutional amendment is more pronounced in the South. The southern elite often accuse the northern elite of being too comfortable with the present arrangement due to the North’s numerical strength in terms of voting in an ethnically, regionally and religiously sentimental country.

    There is a general consensus that our dear country needs a surgical operation for it to work for the majority us. We must accept the fact that the present system does not benefit majority. It is equally a fact that the patriotism of most our present leaders needed much to be desired. Our dear northern elite should and or must participate on a constructive national conversation and or dialogue with their compatriots in order to discuss the future of our dear country.

    Perhaps in response to the said insinuation by the southern elite against the northern elite; few weeks ago the chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) stated in clear terms that the North is not afraid of any engagement with their compatriots in a national conversation or a dialogue on the future of Nigeria through either a constitutional amendment and or a restructuring contrary to the insinuation around.

    It is apt to state that, our huge both human and natural resources in the country are largely untapped. The little resources being tapped only benefits the tiny minority elite. We really need an effective system with a patriotic leadership that will ensure that our both human and natural resources are tapped for the benefit of the vast majority of our people. We really need a better deal in our dear country.

    •Nurudeen Dauda, Kaduna.