Nigeria is a country filled with potential, but our actions often betray our future. We frequently blame the government and external forces for our struggles, but perhaps it’s time to look inward—at both our leadership and our followership.
Let’s take a closer look at three pressing issues that reveal the alarming state of our society.
1. The Tragedy of Misguided Youth
Recently, an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated at an Islamic school in Abuja, killing two people and injuring others. The culprits, young men from Katsina State, were apparently experimenting with the device when it exploded.
This incident raises several critical questions:
- Why is a young man’s focus on creating explosives instead of solutions to societal problems?
- Why aren’t they inspired by role models like Dangote or Jelani Aliyu, the car designer from Sokoto State who works for General Motors?
The North faces numerous challenges: poverty, illiteracy, and underdevelopment. Instead of channeling their energy into addressing these issues, some youths are creating tools of destruction. Whether targeting Christians, Muslims, or public places, these acts of violence only deepen our national woes.
2. Vandalism and the Theft of Public Property
In Abuja, beautifully constructed roads were equipped with manholes for drainage and maintenance. However, some individuals decided to remove the metal covers and sell them as scrap.
This act of vandalism demonstrates a lack of value, decency, and responsibility. It’s a betrayal of taxpayers who fund these projects. Such behavior reflects poorly on us as a people. Is something fundamentally wrong with our collective sense of responsibility?
Leaders, particularly in the North, must prioritize reorienting their youth. Instead of advocating for conflict, they should instill a sense of national development and pride.
3. Cult Rivalries and Needless Bloodshed
Cult-related violence has escalated in places like Ondo and Edo states. Young men are killing each other over trivial matters—territory, relationships, or bar disputes. What do they gain from this senseless violence?
In the past, confraternities were formed to fight oppression and injustice. Now, they are reduced to gangs perpetuating destruction. Many of these individuals never achieve anything meaningful in life, and their actions leave their communities in fear, unable to farm or live in peace.
A Call for Change
Young Nigerians, I challenge you to aspire for greatness. Instead of fighting over territory or indulging in criminal behavior, channel your energy into positive endeavors. Be like:
- Anthony Joshua, who inspires through boxing.
- Rema and Davido, who make us proud with their music.
- Victor Osimhen, who brings glory to Nigeria in football.
- Nobel Prize winners, professors, and innovators who elevate our reputation globally.
We need stars, not gangsters. We need builders, not destroyers.
The Bitter Truth
Even if you rise to become a local champion—a counselor, chairman, or even governor—outside Nigeria, you’re often regarded as a second-class citizen because of our country’s reputation. Let this sink in: the world doesn’t recognize mediocrity or lawlessness.
Instead of wasting resources on ammunition and infighting, why not invest in education, skills, and innovation? Let’s stop glorifying violence and start building a better Nigeria.
Join My Webinar
As we approach 2025, I invite you to my webinar, Hitting the Ground Running Financially, this January. It’s designed to equip you with practical strategies for legitimate wealth creation and financial independence.
To register, send us a message.
Together, we can change the narrative and create a Nigeria we’re proud of.
Dr. Charles Apoki
The Area Grandfather.
