•It’s potentially flawed, short-sighted strategy
•How Nigeria can overcome, insecurity, economic challenges
•Tangible results from Tinubu’s policies still awaited
•Why many are skeptical of tax reforms

By Clifford Ndujihe, Politics Editor

ALHAJI Yerima Shettima, a human rights activist and pro-democracy advocate from Kaduna State, is the president-general of the Arewa Youths Consultative Forum, AYCF.

Shettima, who is a strong advocate for true federalism and restructuring, was at the 2005 Pro-National Conference, PRONACO, led by late Chief Anthony Enahoro, in Lagos. In this interview, he spoke on the state of the nation and why Nigeria must get it right in 2027 among others.

What is your take on the state of the nation?
Nigeria, a diverse nation, presents a complex picture. While boasting significant potential in its human and natural resources, it grapples with a multitude of challenges hindering its progress and threatening its stability. Understanding the current state of the nation requires a nuanced examination of its strengths and weaknesses across various sectors.

One of Nigeria’s most significant assets lies in its burgeoning population, representing a vast pool of human capital. A young and energetic workforce fuels various industries, from technology and entertainment to agriculture. Nollywood, the Nigerian film industry, is a global phenomenon, showcasing the nation’s creative energy. Similarly, technological innovation is gradually gaining traction, with a growing number of startups and tech hubs emerging across major cities. This youthful demographic however presents a significant challenge. The sheer number of unemployed and underemployed individuals contributes to social unrest and fuels a sense of disillusionment among the populace. Without adequate investment in education and job creation, this potential source of strength could become a major destabilizing factor.

The nation’s economy, heavily reliant on oil revenue, remains vulnerable to global price fluctuations. This dependence has hindered diversification into other sectors, making the country susceptible to economic shocks. While efforts are underway to promote agriculture and manufacturing, these sectors are hampered by poor infrastructure, insecurity, and a lack of access to credit.

The agricultural sector, which holds immense potential to feed the nation and create jobs, suffers from outdated farming techniques, inadequate storage facilities, and lack of access to modern technology.
Consequently, food insecurity remains a significant concern, particularly in rural areas. Furthermore, corruption, a deeply entrenched problem within the government and private sector, siphons off resources that could otherwise be invested in development initiatives.

Security concerns represent another critical challenge. The activities of Boko Haram in the North-East, farmer-herder clashes across the country, and the rise of various criminal gangs have created a climate of fear and instability. These conflicts displace communities, disrupt economic activity, and undermine the rule of law. The security forces, while making efforts to combat these challenges, are often overwhelmed by the scale of the problem and hampered by a lack of resources and training. This persistent insecurity discourages foreign investment and hinders the development of crucial infrastructure projects.

Beyond security and economic issues, Nigeria faces significant challenges in governance and social development. Political instability, characterized by electoral irregularities and ethnic tensions, often undermines national unity. Inequality in the distribution of wealth and resources exacerbates existing social divisions. Access to quality healthcare and education remains limited for many Nigerians, particularly in rural communities. The lack of access to basic amenities further marginalises these communities, perpetuating a cycle of poverty and inequality. Therefore, there is a pressing need for equitable policies aimed at improving access to these essential services and bridging the gap between the privileged and the underprivileged.

Overcoming these challenges requires a concerted effort from the government, civil society, and the international community. Investment in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and good governance is crucial to unlocking Nigeria’s vast potential and building a more prosperous and equitable future for its citizens. Addressing corruption, promoting inclusivity, and strengthening institutions are essential steps towards achieving this goal and ensuring the stability and progress of this diverse and dynamic nation.


https://www.vanguardngr.com/2025/03/2027-why-north-wont-defer-presidential-aspiration-for-tinubus-re-election-shettima/