By Rekpene Bassey
Since gaining independence in 1960, Nigeria has been grappling with a persistent and alarming systemic drift, pushing the nation toward the precipice of avoidable failure.
As this regrettable trend intensifies, it becomes imperative to delve into some of the foundational causes that have fuelled this descent, examining key areas of concern that encapsulate the very fabric of our society.
One of the critical arenas witnessing the corrosive effects of the systemic drift is the education sector. This is a foundation impending a colossal peril. The continuous suspension of activities in public universities, coupled with the poor functionality and diminishing quality of education, stands as a testament to the erosion of a foundational pillar for national development. Dilapidated facilities and substandard services further contribute to the decline, raising concerns about the future intellectual capital of the nation.
One of the areas that has suffered the most drift is industrial fallout and harsh business realities. Several industries, once vibrant contributors to the nation’s economic landscape, have succumbed to the harsh business environment.
The collapse of key sectors has somewhat resulted in either economic slowdown, stagnation or downturn, crippling the potential for job creation and economic growth. A comprehensive review of policies and business-friendly reforms is essential to resuscitate these industries and stimulate economic vitality.
The civil service, once regarded as the backbone of administrative efficiency, is now marred by corrupt practices, nepotism, and favouritism. This erosion of public institutions and a decay within extends to the security sector, where the police and anti-corruption agencies such as the ICPC and EFCC have become entangled in political machinations.
The judiciary is pretty much a sad example of the erosion of public institutions. Entrusted with dispensing justice, the judiciary is now very badly tainted by corruption, undermining its fundamental role in upholding the rule of law.
Another extremely sad side of the systemic drift pertains to infrastructure decay. Key public energy infrastructure, vital for sustaining the nation’s progress, languishes in a state of disrepair. For instance, the collapse of Nigerian Airways decades ago still echoes, highlighting the dire condition of essential transportation hubs such as railways, and air and sea ports.
What is even more saddening is that the banking system, a linchpin of economic stability, is teetering on the brink.
Every nation’s strength for national transformation lies in its human capital and the judicious utilization of natural and manmade resources. The erosion of institutions that underpin development in various facets, from customs and culture to law, science, economy, security, military, technology, and religion, signifies a perilous deviation from the path to progress.
The nation is in desperate need of a comprehensive overhaul to rescue these vital sectors from the abyss and rapid drift into imminent failure. In this light, a multifaceted strategy is vitally important for addressing the core issues. The triad of poor leadership, endemic corruption, and a general lack of discipline stands as the major impediments to progress.
The primary approach here will be a leadership overhaul. The nation needs visionary leaders committed to inclusive governance, accountability, and sustainable development. Historical and contemporary examples of successful leadership transformations should guide the selection and grooming of future leaders.
Secondly, combatting endemic corruption must encompass a relentless commitment to ensure its eradication. This, even if it involves reviewing the current statutes and infrastructure is paramount. Implementing robust anti-corruption measures, strengthening institutions, and fostering a culture of transparency and accountability are essential steps.
Thirdly, discipline must be cultivated and entrenched in our psyche and body polity. National redemption requires instilling discipline at all levels of society. This involves promoting ethical values, reinforcing the rule of law, and fostering a culture of responsibility among citizens.
In conclusion, it suffices to further note here the following submissions as the way forward for checking our systemic drift.
Halting Nigeria’s systemic drift demands a paradigm shift, transcending historical shortcomings and embracing a future founded on sound principles. Drawing inspiration from successful global models, the nation can forge a new narrative grounded in egalitarian, philosophical, socioeconomic, and political perspectives.
By addressing the root causes and instigating transformative reforms, Nigeria can reclaim its trajectory toward prosperity, unity, and a sustainable future. The call for national redemption beckons and the time for decisive action is now.
Rekpene Bassey is the President of the African Council on Narcotics (ACON). He is also a Security and Drug Prevention Professional
