The Nation Newspaper

Category: Letters

  • Unemployment and NBS statistics

    Unemployment and NBS statistics

    • By Omale Omachi Samuel

    Sir: The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has released the fourth and first quarters of 2022 and 2023 labour force statistics respectively. It was reported that the new rate of unemployment in Nigeria is now 4.1%, while 13.4% are on wage employment, and 75.4% are operating their own businesses or engaging in farming in the first quarter of 2023. A new methodology was said to have given birth to the shocking figures and not that anything has changed with respect to employment generation.

    Before now, the unemployment computation was 40 hours of work per week, and later moved down to 20 hours of work per week as a minimum to qualify someone as employed. However, the new methodology recognized the minimum of one hour of work in a week as gainfully employed. Again, the labour force age limit has been increased from the range of 15-65 to the range of 15 and above. It then means people who have the grace of living up to 95-100 years are part of the labour force in Nigeria by implication.

    The argument of one-hour minimum work a week as the basis to qualify someone as employed in the new methodology of labour force survey calls for deliberation, and requires further conversations, considering our peculiarity. Is one hour of work good enough if someone chooses not to do more jobs? Does the minimum of one hour of work for a week really make any sense? Is the income generated within one hour of work in a week in Nigeria realistic to justify this new methodology?

    With all sincerity, can two hours of work feed someone for a week in Nigeria? Does Nigeria have an hourly pay rate? Let’s assume one uses the Nigerian minimum wage of N30,000 a month, 30 days in a month, and eight hours a day; one can only generate N125 for one hour of work. Don’t forget that not all the states are paying the minimum wage of N30,000. Even if they all agreed to pay, can this amount feed someone for two hours, not to talk for one week?

    What is the value of a guideline, or new methodology if it cannot be practicalised? There are so many questions begging for answers.

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    It appears that the National Bureau of Statistics did not weigh the implications before accepting the new methodology from the International Labour Organisation (ILO).

    The next question is, how do we reconcile this new methodology with economic theories, the practical and everyday reality of Nigerians? If the new methodology is a subtle way of saying we are fine, if even we are not, then, we need to think it through again.

    Surveying 35,520 households out of 200 million population requires a rethink. I have never been surveyed nor did I know anybody that had ever been surveyed. So, it will be difficult to rule out cynicism in a situation like this.

    Continuing with this new methodology, which many scholars have faulted, including the former Statistician-General, Yemi Kale will amount to ridiculing ourselves, the jobless population, and a sign of insensitivity. The future implications will include distrust of the NBS data if urgent action is not taken to salvage the situation. Again, aside from looking into the sampling size, NBS need to expand and spread the geographical coverage of the survey for proper understanding and public buy-in.

    •Omale Omachi Samuel,

    Centre for Social Justice, Abuja.

  • Resurgence of coup d’état in Africa

    Resurgence of coup d’état in Africa

    • Prof, Tunji Oyelade

    Sir: Recently there was a coup d’état in Niger Republic that caused a lot of stirs from the ECOWAS sub regional block, as to the legitimacy of the coup and the threat of invasion, if the junta does not vacate their control of the government of Niger and return the ousted government of President Mohammed Bezoum to office. Well, the threat seems permanently hanging while alternative negotiations are on-going. This is putting the horse before the cart, you might say.

    Just before we could forget the Niger junta imbroglio with ECOWAS, another coup took place in Gabon early last week, precisely on August 30, and this has caused further jitters down the spine of African leaders. Some of the sit-tight presidents are now hurriedly reshuffling their military and retiring senior military officers to guard against coups in their states. Most prominent amongst them is the Cameroonian nonagenarian president, who probably has vowed or bound himself with an oath to die as president, and probably pass the baton to one of his sons, perhaps in continuation of the legacy.

    Another of such jittery president is Paul Kagame, even with his seeming good governance, devoid however, of respect for human rights. He has been in the saddle of governance in Rwanda since April 22, 2000, meaning that he is currently on his third term of another seven years, which is expected to lapse in 2028, ceteris paribus. He was president before I started a career in the academia.  I am now a professor and he is still the president.

    The coup in the Congo has ended a family hegemony of the Bongos, though as we learn, Ali Bongo’s cousin, Nguema, is the head of the junta and head of the new government. 

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    Ali Bongo took over the reign of governance from his father, Omar Bongo, having served for 42 years. Ali Bongo served for another 14 years and was on the verge of perpetuating himself before the coup. 

    We can go on and on with some African leaders in this category. It was a complete shock to listen to Ali Bongo justifying his sit tight rule at a gathering in Oxford University with such unconscionable pontification. 

    Now, I learnt the phrase “military government is an aberration” since my government class in secondary school. I tend to believe that but democracies which are riddled with election malpractices; rigging; killing; perpetuation; corruption and clannish, ethnic and family hegemony, are not the kind of democracies that we want in Africa or anywhere in the world. 

    Good governance is the utmost desire and daily cries of the common man. He desires no more and no less. He desires to feed, work, develop, educate his children, good infrastructure, equity, justice and of course, be secured in his environment. He will like to be a patriot only if the government is willing to reciprocate his good gestures.

    No amount of threat from sub regional or regional organisation can stop change in government through coups or revolution when the people have been pushed to the wall. This was exhibited in the massive welcome of the juntas in the recent coups.

    Good governance is the antidote to coup.

    •Prof, Tunji Oyelade

    Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife.

  • Re: Encounter with LASG transport operations unit

    Re: Encounter with LASG transport operations unit

    • By Engr. Abdulhafiz Toriola

    Sir: The publication in The Nation of September 1 on the above refers. In the recent events involving the Transport Operations and Compliance Unit, (TOCU) officials of the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, certain officials were unfortunately found to have deviated from their intended duties.

    Instead of following the directive to place removal notices on abandoned vehicles found impeding on traffic in some parts of the state, they were reported to have apprehended some motorists and engaged in extortion.

    The Lagos State Ministry of Transportation takes these allegations very seriously and swift actions have been taken to address the situation. The officials involved in this inappropriate behaviour have been apprehended and are currently under investigation.

    The ministry wishes to assure the public that such actions do not represent the ethical standards it upholds as the primary goal of the Transport Operations and Compliance Unit is to ensure the smooth flow of traffic, promote road safety, and enforce compliance with relevant transportation regulations.

    The ministry acknowledges that the actions of a few individuals should not tarnish the reputation of the entire unit, which consists of many dedicated professionals committed to serving the public.

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     Moving forward, the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation is committed to the implementation of measures that will prevent such incidents from occurring again. This includes reinforcing proper training and ethical conduct among its officials.

    Also in this category of reports are some fake officials operating under the guise of the banned Removal of Abandoned Vehicle Committee and TOCU apprehending innocent motorists and extorting them. 

    The ministry encourages the public to report any instances of misconduct or extortion they encounter from these officers, as their cooperation is essential in maintaining transparency and accountability.

    The ministry extends its gratitude to the public for their vigilance in reporting these incidents, as it reflects the strong partnership between the government and the people of the state. By holding officials accountable for their actions, the ministry aims to restore trust and confidence in the enforcement agencies responsible for ensuring transportation compliance and safety within the state.

    •Engr. Abdulhafiz Toriola,

    Permanent Secretary.

    Ministry of Transportation, Lagos.

  • Globalisation and substance abuse among Gen-Z

    Globalisation and substance abuse among Gen-Z

    • By Akwu Philemon

    Sir: The poem “Children Learn What They Live” by Dorothy Nolte is an evergreen reminder to society about raising a child the right way. This has become important given the rapid urbanisation that has overtaken the African society and the attendant challenges of moral decadence being exacerbated by globalisation. 

    Today, families cannot afford not to raise their young one properly because any complacency in parenting will open the child to vices, one of which is the abuse of illicit drugs. Drug abuse by teenagers has become a lurking danger that society must guard against in ensuring that the young ones have a wholesome upbringing. 

     The National Drug Use Survey conducted by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime UNODC and the Federal Ministry of Health in 2017 showed that a lot of teenagers are introduced to cannabis between the age of 15 and 19, usually by their peers. That is a call for parents to pay greater attention to their children. More so, there are so many negative influences around nowadays. Some of the biggest musicians that these kids idolise glamorise substance abuse in the lyrics or videos of their songs or by their lifestyles. 

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    The social media which they also have access to is also a dangerous place that can pollute young minds that are easily impressionable. Promoters of drug abuse are everywhere on social media ready to lead young people astray.  

    A combination of all these negative forces has put more pressure on parents and guardians to pay more attention to the young ones they are raising.  

    How does one raise a child that will not become an abuser of cannabis when virtually all their role models smoke the stuff? How do we shield them from peers who are abusing drugs?  

    I’m aware of the tremendous efforts by NDLEA to raise the awareness among teenagers about why they have to stay away from illicit drugs. We have seen pictures of WADA lectures holding in several schools. WADA clubs too are also being entrenched across schools. 

    These are good developments. It is therefore our responsibility as parents and guardians to join hands with NDLEA and ensure that our children are safe from bad influences.

    •Akwu Philemon,

     Okene, Kogi State.

  • Rising coups in West Africa

    Rising coups in West Africa

    • By Tosin Afeniforo

    Sir: The wave of military coups in the region – Mali in 2020 and 2021, Guinea in 2021, Burkina Faso in 2022, and recently Niger in July, and now Gabon a Central African country in late August, raises serious concerns regarding the long-term stability of democratic governance in the region. It is disheartening to note that West Africa, once seen as a beacon of democratic progress, is now plagued by political upheavals and coups d’état. The increasing number of such incidents is a clear indication of the leadership deficiency facing the region. This deficiency in leadership not only threatens the stability of individual countries but also undermines the development of West Africa as a whole.

    For a community to function well, it needs to have a democratic government and peaceful transfers of power. Unfortunately, West Africa has been plagued by a series of coups, which have exposed the fragility of democratic institutions and the mistrust of political processes. Countries that have fought for democracy for many years are now grappling with the reality that coups are becoming more common than fair elections. This trend highlights the failure of elected officials to uphold the principles of democracy and responsible governance.

    One of the primary reasons behind the increasing number of coups in certain countries is the prevalent culture of corruption and impunity. This culture has weakened the foundations of these nations, eroded public trust, and jeopardized the provision of essential services. As a result, ordinary people bear the brunt of socio-economic hardships. Leaders gaining riches while infrastructure and services erode causes political instability and military intervention.

    The absence of capable leadership has led to the neglect of crucial industries such as job creation, healthcare, and education, particularly affecting young people in West Africa. They face significant challenges in finding employment and accessing quality healthcare and education facilities. Power-hungry individuals exploit their frustration with this difficult situation for political gain, leading to a sense of pessimism and vulnerability among the youth.

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    The incapacity of leaders to address these pressing issues demonstrates a lack of vision and short-sightedness that is detrimental to the long-term development of the region. Unfortunately, many leaders prioritize self-enrichment and personal aggrandizement over inclusive policies and sustainable economic growth. This short-sighted strategy not only destroys the social contract that supports stable governance but also alienates the public. It is important for leaders to have a long-term vision that promotes growth and benefits everyone in the community.

    In West Africa, effective leadership involves promoting harmony and inclusivity among diverse ethnic, religious, and cultural groups. This is crucial to prevent political unrest and violence that have historically resulted from ethnic conflicts. Leaders must continuously work towards overcoming differences, forging a national identity, and promoting social cohesiveness. Conversely, ineffective leadership can result in the exploitation of these divisions, leading to ongoing instability and unrest.

    It is important for both regional and international players to collaborate and support efforts to strengthen democratic institutions, promote good governance, and foster economic development in West Africa. This is necessary to address the increasing number of coups and leadership deficiencies in the region. However, this support should come with conditions attached, encouraging leaders to be more accountable, transparent, and responsive to the needs of their citizens.

    The region must see this trend as a wake-up call and work together to retrace its steps on the road to stable governance, sustainable development, and steady peace.

    •Tosin Afeniforo,

     IUSS Pavia, Italy.

  • Encounter with LASG ‘transport operations unit’ 

    Encounter with LASG ‘transport operations unit’ 

    • By Engineer Ade

    Sir: On August 28, I found myself in an unfortunate encounter involving the LASG Transport Operations Compliance Unit (TOCU). While on Allen Avenue Road in Ikeja, around midday, I parked my car near a kiosk with the hazard lights on. I approached a female vendor and asked for directions to a medical centre where I had an appointment. Astonishingly, within seconds, a towing vehicle suddenly appeared in front of my car, and four men emerged. To cut a long story short, they took control of my vehicle in a highly unprofessional and deceitful manner. One of them even forcefully removed the key from the ignition, nearly damaging the ignition unit. They then proceeded to take me and my car to a nearby location.

    Sitting in the back seat, a young man explained that I was being penalized for crossing a “yellow line” on the roadside.

    We eventually arrived at a vast area known as “Odo Iya Alaro” at Ojota Area of Lagos State, which houses an LPG Gas Station. At first glance, it was evident that this couldn’t be an official Lagos State Government transport office. None of the individuals present (over eight of them initially, with more joining later going in and out) wore uniforms or carried identification.

    Once there, I was handed over to another person, apparently the second-in-command and “operational manager” of the location. He confirmed that he was aware of the situation and prepared to release the vehicle. He mentioned the penalty was originally set at N75,000 but offered to reduce it to N30,000 using his discretion. I insisted on receiving a ticket and paying at an official government location. He proposed that his subordinate could go and pay on my behalf at Alausa office, but I insisted to handle it myself. A young woman from their group was asked to provide me with the ticket, as she also dramatically turned around to mention that the charge was actually N100,000 and the ticket would take around 30 minutes to be ready. I agreed to wait to get “my N30,000 ticket”, even as my continuous patience seemed to be clashing with their expectations.

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    I remained at the site for another hour, making the total duration of the ordeal almost three hours. It provided a first-hand experience of the challenges some of us face in Lagos State at the hands of such individuals. Here are additional observations:

    Around six vehicles were already there when we arrived, with new arrivals of one car roughly every 20 minutes. Three patrol vehicles (possibly more) bore the LASG label with the unit name “TRANSPORT OPERATIONS COMPLIANCE UNIT (TOCU).” They alternated escorting vehicles into the area and returning with more “offenders.”

    Each team consisted of four to five men in a patrol vehicle, with one taking photos as evidence of the “offence.”

    The entire operation seemed designed to extort money from unwitting motorists, causing additional financial losses to LASG and burden on innocent victims. This tarnishes the state’s reputation and potentially the nation’s as well.

    It’s conceivable that this operation persists with the knowledge of some government officials, as one individual who noticed me taking photos confidently stated they were not engaged in any wrongdoing. The legality of the TOCU’s actions is dubious.

    I managed to contact a senior official at Alausa through a friend, which led to a change in the situation for me. The operations manager ultimately released my vehicle but still demanded a “gate fee” of N2,000 for which I received a receipt—indicating the site owners’ involvement in the scheme.

    If a road traffic offence occurs, LASG seems to have a system in place where the bill awaits one during annual vehicle registration. This eliminates the need to hand over cash to individuals or endure vehicle impoundment as if in captivity.

    The audacious manner in which they took control of people’s vehicles was reminiscent of kidnappers, a terrifying prospect for many. This incident reminded me of another incident two weeks earlier where a driver was killed by soldiers who apprehended him and took his newly delivered vehicle destined for the North. Even the man who took over driving my vehicle displayed reckless behaviour, leaving me convinced he had no formal driving training or even a driver’s license.

    I hope the transport department of LASG addresses this matter promptly. There are undoubtedly committed government officials eager to effect positive change. Nonetheless, the effort to weed out corrupt elements must persist.

    •Engineer Ade,

    Lagos State.

  • The coup d’état in Gabon 

    The coup d’état in Gabon 

    By Akinola Ayobami Steven

    Sir: The latest military coup in Gabon has again raised questions about the political stability and governance in African countries that were formerly colonized by France. This incident not only marks a significant upheaval in Gabon’s political landscape but also draws attention to a recurring pattern of military interventions in post-colonial African nations, particularly those with historical ties to French colonial rule.

    In a surprising turn of events, Gabon’s military ousted President Ali Bongo, who had secured his third term in office through an election in which he garnered 64.27 percent of the total votes. This coup effectively brought an end to 56 years of the Bongo family’s rule, starting with Ali Bongo’s father, Omar Bongo, who ruled Gabon from 1967 to 2009. The military’s actions extended beyond the ousting of the president; they closed borders, dissolved government institutions, and nullified the election results, plunging Gabon into uncertainty and volatility.

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    To understand the prevalence of military coups in African countries with ties to French colonial history, it’s crucial to examine the enduring impact of colonization on these nations’ political, economic, and social systems. Many of these former colonies gained independence in the mid-20th century, often transitioning from autocratic colonial rule to fragile democratic governance. The legacy of colonization left behind deeply rooted challenges such as socio-economic disparities, weak institutions, and limited political participation.

    One of the factors contributing to military coups in post-colonial African nations is economic dependency. Former colonies often inherited economic systems designed to serve the interests of the colonizers, leaving them reliant on a narrow range of resources and vulnerable to global market fluctuations. Another critical factor is the weak governance structures inherited from colonial rule. The absence of inclusive institutions and effective mechanisms for power-sharing often leads to political exclusion and marginalization, driving certain factions to seek alternative routes to political power, including military takeovers.

    France’s historical relationship with its former colonies, often referred to as Francophone Africa, has also raised concerns about neo-colonialism. While these nations gained political independence, France maintained significant economic and political influence through complex post-colonial arrangements. This dynamic has led to allegations that France’s involvement, whether overt or covert, has perpetuated instability and contributed to the prevalence of military coups in these countries.

    The legacies of colonization, economic dependency, weak governance structures, and perceptions of neo-colonialism have collectively created an environment prone to political upheaval. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that involves strengthening democratic institutions, promoting economic diversification, and redefining the relationships between these nations and their former colonizers. Only through concerted efforts can African countries break free from the cycle of military coups and achieve sustained political stability and development.

    •Akinola Ayobami Steven, Akinolaa61@gmail.com.

  • Shifting from the status quo

    Shifting from the status quo

    Sir: On Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Monday, Ajuri Ngelale, presidential spokesman, said the president would not hesitate to sack any underperforming appointee. He said: ‘’The President has set the benchmarks. The question now is about enforcement, and the president has shown, as he did during his time in Lagos State as governor, that he is not someone who is afraid to fire anybody. He is not somebody that is afraid to levy quick sanctions to ensure that they get the results that he wants, because, ultimately, if this administration fails, they will not say a minister failed or a set of ministers failed. They will say President Bola Tinubu failed, and he will not accept failure.”

    Ngelale’s statement stirred reactions – I believe for its unorthodoxy. In the past, non-performing public officials, some of them self-confessed, enjoyed uninterrupted tenures, and even re-engagement – an anomaly that hangs over the national consciousness like a wraith. But there are knowing signs that there is a shifting from that status quo.

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    At the inaugural federal executive council meeting, President Tinubu gave members of his cabinet their marching orders. A statement issued by the presidency quoted the president to have said: ‘that anyone thinking that appointments are fixed term appointments are mistaken, the President expressed confidence that the carefully selected cabinet members know that his government is a new one with a new approach and a new mandate to deliver for Nigeria without any lamentation or excuses.’’

    The president was also reported to have told his ministers: “You and I know that expectations are high, and these are tough times. We must work hard and move ourselves to create a buoyant economy that will serve Nigeria.’’

    And clearly discerning the mood of country, the president directed the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs to freeze the processing of visas for all government officials seeking to travel to New York for the United Nations General Assembly without proof of direct participation in UNGA’s official schedule of activities. This was said to be a part of measures to reduce the cost of governance. Under a tonnage of hardship effectuated by some very necessary and compelling reforms, Nigerians have asked the government to show concern by cutting the cost of governance. I believe the government’s gesture will be a continuum.

    Things should be done differently and are beginning to be done differently. A new order from what it used to be. The otiose status quo should not be re-invented or perpetuated. Nigerians deserve a breath of crisp oxygen.

    This shift from the status quo should advance further, bringing vibrancy, fecundity, and vigour to our system. A shift from the status quo implies public officials should consider themselves as servants of the people, and not their sovereign; submitting to transparency and accountability.

    A shift from the status quo means the business of governance must be done with private-sector discipline; goal-oriented, performance-driven, and with clear targets. The administration is already bringing this inclination to governance.

    A shift from the status quo dictates fiscal discipline, prudence, patriotism, and competence in the management of our finances.

    A shift from the status quo implies the pursuit of the national interest, unity, and peace of the country at all times. A shift from the status quo dictates sustaining the stimulus of Renewed Hope. And it is a good start.

    Good governance is the kernel of Nigeria’s development. Effective leadership will address a good number of today’s nettlesome challenges. The vexing problems with education, healthcare, security, unemployment, and electricity can be managed or palliated with responsible leadership.

    But there is also the need for citizens to shift from the status quo. There is the place of leadership and there is the place of followership in building a country. Citizens have as much responsibility as the leadership. But it is fundamental for the leadership to be the rallying crucible; to be the trigger and nucleus for nation-building.

    Nigerians across stations, persuasions and ideological and political leanings will need to play their role to keep the wheel steady and in forward motion. The civil society, the media, and we, occupiers of the office of the citizen, have our part to play. Nigeria is our collective patrimony. It is our responsibility to make it work. It is our responsibility to help the country blossom.

    •Fredrick Nwabufo,

     <fredricknwabufo@yahoo.com>

  • Much ado about Nigeria’s 4.1% unemployment rate

    Much ado about Nigeria’s 4.1% unemployment rate

    By Samuel Jekeli

    Sir: As Nigeria grapples with the soaring fuel prices and the ripple effects it has on the economy and citizens, an intriguing narrative emerges—one that centres around the announced 4.1% unemployment rate. The timing of this announcement amidst growing concerns about the high cost of fuel raises questions about its role as a smart diversion from a pressing issue that has gripped the nation. Is the unemployment rate becoming a calculated distraction, diverting attention from the hardships inflicted by the rising fuel prices?

    Nigeria’s unemployment rate announcement arrives at a time when the public discourse is heavily focused on the skyrocketing fuel prices and the severe challenges it imposes on the daily lives of Nigerians. These challenges span across sectors—transportation costs surge, commodity prices escalate, and the cost of living mounts. Amidst these economic hardships, the 4.1% unemployment rate almost seems like an orchestrated response to shifting attention away from the glaring concern of the fuel price crisis.

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    Critics argue that the timing of the unemployment rate announcement is strategic. With headlines dominated by stories of citizens facing financial difficulties due to fuel price hikes, the sudden focus on a relatively positive unemployment rate could potentially serve as a diversionary tactic. The announcement, though important in its own right, effectively redirects public attention, diluting the urgency of addressing the fuel-related hardships.

    While the announced 4.1% unemployment rate might align with data analysis, it doesn’t necessarily reflect the lived experiences of Nigerians. The gap between official figures and the tangible economic difficulties on the ground is a stark reminder that data can be manipulated to create a narrative that suits the agenda at hand. As citizens grapple with the realities of high fuel prices, the unemployment rate provides little solace, acting more as a mirage than a substantive remedy.

    The diversionary nature of focusing on a seemingly positive statistic amidst pressing hardships raises ethical questions about the government’s responsibility to address immediate concerns. The high cost of fuel affects every facet of life, from transportation to basic goods, leaving many Nigerians financially strained and uncertain about the future. While unemployment is undoubtedly an issue that requires attention, it should not be weaponized as a distraction from the urgent matter of fuel-related hardships.

    In the face of these diversionary tactics, citizens and media play a pivotal role in holding authorities accountable. Transparent and unbiased reporting can shed light on the complexities of the situation, ensuring that the focus remains on addressing the fuel price crisis rather than shifting attention to more favourable statistics. By fostering an informed and engaged citizenry, the impact of diversionary tactics can be mitigated.

    Balanced governance demands that leaders address multiple challenges simultaneously, without using one as a means to overshadow the other. While the 4.1% unemployment rate might hold promise for the future, its announcement should not overshadow the pressing need to alleviate the immediate hardships brought about by rising fuel prices. Citizens deserve a government that tackles all pertinent issues without exploiting diversionary tactics.

    The challenges facing the nation, be it unemployment or fuel-related hardships, are interconnected, and addressing one should not come at the expense of acknowledging and alleviating the other. A balanced, transparent, and accountable approach is the hallmark of effective governance—a path that can lead to tangible solutions for the welfare of the Nigerian people.

    Samuel Jekeli, Centre for Social Justice, Abuja.

  • Reimagining education: Beyond student loans

    Reimagining education: Beyond student loans

    • by Akinola Ayobami Steven

    Sir: The recent decision by the federal government to shift from subsidizing education to providing student loans has sparked a vigorous debate on its viability and potential repercussions. While student loans have proven effective in some countries, Nigeria’s unique socio-economic landscape calls for a more comprehensive approach to secure a prosperous future for its youth.

    Nigeria has long grappled with a high number of out-of-school children, which hampers societal advancement. The shift from subsidizing education to student loans raises concerns about exacerbating this challenge. The existing issue of out-of-school children, highlighted by UNESCO, signifies that many Nigerians already struggled with affording education prior to this policy change. It is crucial to acknowledge that developed countries utilizing student loans, such as the United States, possess vastly different educational and economic infrastructures, including robust job markets and comprehensive financial aid systems that facilitate loan repayment post-employment.

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    Countries that have successfully integrated student loans implemented foundational measures beforehand. Scandinavian countries, for instance, fortified social welfare systems, invested significantly in industries, and fostered economic growth prior to relying on student loans. In contrast, Nigeria confronts multifaceted challenges like unemployment, poverty, and underdeveloped industries. It’s important to recognize that Nigeria’s economic structure is not conducive to a seamless transition to a loan-based educational model.

    Given Nigeria’s challenges, an alternative strategy is imperative. Rather than relying solely on student loans, the government should prioritize youth education through a multifaceted approach, including, investing in education infrastructure, implementing comprehensive vocational and technical training programs to equip youth with practical skills, bridging the gap between education and employability, creating an environment conducive to entrepreneurship by offering grants, mentorship, and access to credit will empower young people to generate jobs, partnering with the private sector to establish internships, apprenticeships, and industry-aligned curricula will enhance workforce readiness, and, creating a well-structured financial aid system, distinct from loans, that can provide grants, scholarships, and low-interest loans to deserving students ,thus alleviating the burden of education costs.

    By embracing these measures, Nigeria will take a step closer to realizing its full potential as a beacon of hope for Africa. With the appointment of new ministers of education, youth, and labour, collaboration with the president is imperative to re-evaluate this policy. Collectively, these ministers can initiate a comprehensive review to ensure that the education system aligns with Nigeria’s unique Challenges And Aspirations, Thus Safeguarding The Nation’s Future.

    •Akinola Ayobami Steven,

    akinolaa61@gmail.com>