By Dada Ahmed.
This feature may not immediately capture the interest of many Nigerians, especially those struggling to navigate the current harsh realities of the economy and other pressing challenges of daily life facing the citizens. Understandably, survival takes precedence over discussions about systemic issues.
However, for those who envision a better Nigeria and are committed to shaping its future, engaging with this piece will be a valuable investment of time.
After all,thoughtful reflection and informed discourse are essential steps toward meaningful change.
Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation and one of its largest economies, has been grappling with deep-rooted social, economic, and political problems for decades. The debates over the causes of these challenges often boil down to two major perspectives: Is the problem primarily due to a flawed system, or are Nigerians themselves responsible for their country’s struggles? This article takes a balanced, educative, and incisive look at both arguments, presenting an in-depth analysis of the complex relationship between governance structures, cultural tendencies, and individual responsibilities in shaping Nigeria’s destiny.
One of the strongest arguments for blaming the system is that ,Nigeria’s governance structure was flawed from the outset. The country’s colonial history left behind a system designed for exploitation rather than development. The British created artificial borders that lumped together diverse ethnic groups without regard for historical, cultural, or political differences. This forced cohabitation led to deep ethnic and regional divisions that still haunt the nation today. The independence-era leaders inherited a governance structure that was not designed for inclusivity, leading to a system where power struggles, rather than nation-building, became the primary political focus.
Corruption remains Nigeria’s most notorious challenge, but is it the system that breeds corruption, or is it Nigerians themselves who are responsible? Some argue that weak institutions and lack of accountability mechanisms allow corruption to thrive. Others insist that individuals, not just the system, make the conscious choice to embezzle public funds, inflate contracts, or engage in electoral malpractice. The truth likely lies somewhere in between—while a flawed system makes corruption easier, it is the actions of individuals that sustain it. If public office holders resisted the temptation to loot, Nigeria’s corruption index would drastically reduce.
Nigeria’s political elite have often been accused of deliberately designing policies that serve their interests rather than those of the masses. From manipulating elections to suppressing opposition voices and failing to implement people-centered policies, many politicians appear more focused on personal enrichment than national progress. However, can these politicians operate without the support of the citizens who vote for them (sometimes repeatedly) despite their poor performance? A system that rewards mediocrity, nepotism, and loyalty to ethnic or religious blocs instead of competence naturally produces selfish leaders. But it is the people who sustain this system by accepting money for votes or refusing to demand accountability.
Nigeria’s economic woes are often blamed on poor policies, a rent-seeking economy, and a failure to diversify from oil dependency. However, another crucial factor is the productivity of the citizens. Many businesses struggle due to inadequate power supply, and multiple taxation, but are Nigerians themselves maximizing their potential? Countries like China and India, despite their large populations, have thrived due to the productivity of their people. If Nigerians embraced innovation, entrepreneurship, and efficiency at individual and corporate levels, the economy would witness significant improvements, even in the face of systemic challenges.
Nigeria’s social issues, such as ethnic rivalry, religious intolerance, and gender inequality, have deep roots in cultural and systemic factors. Some argue that the system enables these problems by failing to implement strong laws that protect human rights and social justice. Others contend that cultural attitudes, ingrained in people from childhood, are the real culprits. For instance, a system may provide legal backing for gender equality, but if families continue to prefer male children over female ones, progress will be slow. Similarly, government policies may promote national unity, but if individuals still hold on to ethnic prejudices, disunity will persist.
Nigeria’s education system may not be what it should be as exemplified by plethora problems. While the government bears responsibility for such problems, the people also contribute to the problem.
Many parents prioritize material wealth over quality education, preferring to send their children to substandard schools while investing in lavish lifestyles. Furthermore, students often seek shortcuts to success, embracing examination malpractice and certificate forgery rather than hard work. If both the system and individuals took education more seriously, Nigeria’s development trajectory would shift positively.
Nigerian youths often position themselves as victims of a broken system, but how many actively work to change the narrative? While unemployment rates are high and opportunities scarce, many young people have also embraced get-rich-quick schemes, internet fraud, and political thuggery instead of seeking innovative ways to succeed. Some Nigerian youths grudge that the system, indeed, fails them by not providing them with quality education and employment, but experience shows that some of them also fail themselves by not taking advantage of available opportunities or striving for excellence in their fields.
No doubt religion plays a powerful role in Nigeria’s socio-political landscape, often dictating electoral decisions and governance policies. However, instead of being a force for good, religious institutions sometimes contribute to national problems by promoting blind followership, prosperity preaching, and ethnic biases. Religious leaders wield enormous influence but rarely use it to demand accountability from the government. Instead, they sometimes align with corrupt politicians for personal gain. While the system allows this, Nigerians themselves enable it by placing religious loyalty above national interest.
From insurgency in the Northeast to banditry and kidnapping in the North Central and Northwest, and violent crimes in the South,a critical analysis of this problem shows glaring degree of citizen complicity. Communities shield criminals due to ethnic or religious affiliations, while some individuals aid and abet crimes for financial benefits. The government must strengthen security institutions, but citizens must also actively work to expose and discourage criminal activities.
In the final analysis, Nigeria’s problems are not solely the fault of the system or its people—it is a combination of both. The system, inherited from colonial rule and perpetuated by successive administrations, creates an environment where inefficiency, corruption, and mediocrity thrive. However, Nigerians also contribute by accepting these flaws, failing to demand better governance, and sometimes engaging in the very practices they criticize.
To move forward, systemic reforms must be accompanied by a change in mindset. Strong institutions must be built, but individuals must also uphold integrity, demand accountability, and strive for excellence in their personal and professional lives. If both the system and the people rise to the occasion, Nigeria’s potential can be fully realized. The road to a better Nigeria requires collective effort, responsibility, and a commitment to genuine change.
Ahmed publishes The Reporters.
