A Call to Collective Action: Building a Better Nigeria

               Lets move Nigeria forward 

A Call to Collective Action: Building a Better Nigeria

By:- Destiny Tamunoala Emmanuel

As Nigerians, we are not speaking negatively about our nation, but rather, we believe that Nigeria, as a democratic Republic, deserves much more than what we are going through right now. We are compelled to speak out because we care deeply about our country's future and want to see it thrive. The recent surge in insecurity, economic woes, and governance issues demands immediate attention and collective action from both the government and the people.

The State of Insecurity

The past week has witnessed a disturbing escalation in violent attacks, kidnappings, and banditry across various parts of the country. Notably:

- *Plateau State Attack*: Over 100 people were killed in Bokkos and Bassa Local Government Areas in a recent attack. The attack has sparked widespread condemnation, with many calling for increased security measures in the state.

- *Benue State*: Gunmen killed 15 people in a fresh attack for Benue communities, highlighting the ongoing security challenges in the region.

- *Kaduna State*: Bandits abducted six people in a Kaduna community, further exacerbating the security situation in the state.

- *Rivers State Crisis*: The state has been plagued by cult-related violence and insecurity, with many residents living in fear of their lives.

- *Sea Piracy Issue*: Nigeria's maritime sector is also facing significant challenges, including sea piracy, which threatens the country's economic security and global trade.

Economic Woes

The Nigerian economy faces unprecedented challenges, including:

- *Rising Inflation and Unemployment*: The recent increase in fuel prices has further exacerbated the situation, leaving many Nigerians struggling to make ends meet.

- *Stunted Economic Growth*: The government's inability to stimulate economic growth and create jobs has led to widespread poverty and disillusionment.

A Call to Action

To address these challenges, we urge the government to take immediate and decisive action:

- *Deploying Adequate Security Personnel*: Prioritize citizen safety and security by deploying adequate personnel to affected areas.

- *Implementing Comprehensive Economic Reforms*: Stimulate growth, create jobs, and reduce poverty through comprehensive economic reforms.

- *Promoting National Unity*: Foster national unity and dialogue to address underlying issues driving conflicts.

Recommendations

We recommend that the government:

- *Establish State Police*: Grant states more autonomy to manage their security affairs.

- *Increase Investment in Education*: Prioritize education and skills development to drive economic growth.

- *Promote Transparency and Accountability*: Foster trust and confidence among citizens through transparent governance.

Prioritizing the Nation's Welfare

We urge the government to prioritize the nation's welfare above political status, power tussles, party affiliations, or any other groups that may influence and promote selfish interests. Nigeria needs help, and we can learn from other countries that have faced similar challenges and emerged stronger.

- *South Korea*: In the 1950s, South Korea was one of the poorest countries in the world. However, through strategic investments in education, technology, and infrastructure, it has become one of the most developed countries in the world.

- *Singapore*: In the 1960s, Singapore was a newly independent nation with limited resources. However, through visionary leadership and strategic planning, it has become one of the most prosperous and stable countries in the world.

- *Rwanda*: After the 1994 genocide, Rwanda was left devastated. However, through concerted efforts to promote reconciliation, invest in education, and stimulate economic growth, it has made significant progress and become a model for post-conflict reconstruction.

These examples give us hope that Nigeria can scale through its current challenges and emerge stronger. We urge the government and citizens to work together to build a better future for our nation.

Conclusion

The Nigerian government must take immediate action to address the nation's multifaceted challenges. By prioritizing citizen safety, stimulating economic growth, and promoting national unity, the government can build a more stable and prosperous future for its citizens. We believe that Nigeria deserves much more than what we are going through right now, and we need both the government and the people to work together to change the narrative. Together, we can make Nigeria a better place for all its citizens.

*Sources:*

- Online news articles from reputable sources, including Punch, Guardian, and This Day.

- Reports from government agencies and international organizations.