By Lydia Usman Maiva
Nigeria’s economic hardship has been a pressing concern for months, which leaves many wondering if the country’s leaders truly grasp the severity of the situation.
Millions of Nigerians struggle to put food on their table, while leaders indulge in luxury. This does nothing except exposing the contrast between the haves and have-nots.
The country’s economic downturn has far-reaching consequences, and it has affected education, healthcare, and overall well-being.
Citizens are forced to make difficult choices between paying bills or accessing essential services. The soaring cost of living, coupled with dwindling purchasing power, has made everyday life daunting for many.
Families face impossible choices between basic necessities, and leaders’ opulence exacerbates this disconnect. This raises questions about the government’s priorities and commitment to alleviating suffering.
The impact on citizens is dire, with many resorting to buying half portions of items due to high costs. The struggle to afford three square meals has become a harsh reality for numerous households.
Experts predict that Nigeria’s economy will continue to face pressures, including potential shocks from economic and environmental trends.
To address these challenges, policymakers must consider key areas for intervention, such as tackling unemployment through targeted interventions focusing on job creation, skills development, and entrepreneurship in sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, technology, and renewable energy.
Additionally, promoting inclusive economic growth by prioritising social safety nets, access to quality education and healthcare, and empowerment of marginalised communities is crucial.
Strengthening security through comprehensive approaches integrating law enforcement, intelligence, community engagement, and regional cooperation to address insecurity is also essential.
The World Bank recommends policy options to reduce inflation, protect the poor and vulnerable, and support economic recovery.
By addressing these challenges, Nigeria can work towards a more sustainable and equitable economic future. Nigerians demand empathy, accountability, and tangible solutions to address the economic downturn.
The future hangs in the balance, and leaders must rise to the challenge, demonstrating genuine concern for citizens’ welfare. Luxury enjoyed by leaders is a slap in the face to those struggling.
In a nutshell, I urge President Tinubu, all relevant stakeholders, and our various representatives to join forces and take immediate action to alleviate the debilitating problems afflicting Nigerians. It is unacceptable that a simple three-square meal has become a rarity in many households across the country.
The time for rhetoric is over; Nigerians need tangible solutions, empathy, and accountability from their leaders.
We cannot afford to continue down this path of hardship and inequality; the future of Nigeria depends on it.
Lydia Usman Maiva is a student in the Department of Mass Communication, University of Maiduguri.