Dr. Yusuf Lawal, Ph.D
Survival Instincts of the Nigerian Youth, by Yusuf Lawal
A few months ago, “His Highness Kabiyesi” Tunde Bakare, the Editor-in-Chief of the Kwara Tabloid and I met at a public book presentation authored by a young couple, where we both got talking on the activities of today’s youths and the accolades and concerns associated with their affairs. It could be the reason why my brother; Tunde found some of my opinions on the youth interesting and deemed me qualified to be the Guest Speaker at the occasion of the 10th Annual Lecture and Award Ceremony of the Kwara Tabloid. I pray that it is not an exaggerated acknowledgment.
This lecture may not be revealing anything about the youth that this audience is not familiar with, it might just rekindle our consciousness and bring to the front burner once more; the question of what our youths want for further discussion and interaction. So, may I ask, what do our youths want? particularly from their manifestation of their despondency, disenchantment, displeasure and disagreement with the status quo. This is why, despite the fact that the organisers of this event have not given me any topic to address, I have chosen to title this lecture SURVIVAL INSTINCTS OF THE NIGERIAN YOUTH IN A DYNAMIC TIME: THE FACTS, FANTASIES AND FALLACIES
This is not a purely academic paper requiring compliance with all the deserving niceties, nevertheless, the introductory part would still require that I make some conceptual clarifications for an understanding of the discourse. Please permit me to therefore do a little background to this presentation.
Background
Average Nigerian youths have been instilled with survival instinct right from when they are children. The concept of youth was a subject of debate for so long and was finally determined by age-range (Chukwuemeka, et al, 2012). Youths are subjected to control of the social system, which shows that we are shaped by the society we live in. Notably, the motives of youths are derived largely from individuals’ social experience and interaction. These social experience and interaction encompass, the family, the religious houses (mosques, churches and synagogues) and peer group (Ntunde, 2005).
From the seemingly golden era of free education, relatively good standard of living and promising and envisaged bright future, to the harsh realities of economic recession, bad governance and endemic corruption in a struggling nation, the narrative for Nigerian youths has undergone a dramatic shift. In the early post-independence era, Nigeria was brimming with optimism and promise as education of youth being future leaders was prioritised, with the government providing free and quality education at some levels. This good story was spread across different regions of the country, particularly following the end of colonialism and the gaining of political independence. Beneficiaries of the Sardauna era in the Northern region would readily relish their experiences when education in public schools was not only free, but the students were even paid for being in school, while automatic employment was awaiting them at graduation. Those in the Western region also enjoined the abundance of the benefits of the free education under the Awolowo era. It was not too different in the Eastern region.The prioritisation of education in all parts of the country was a cardinal principle of government. More specifically, schools were equipped with adequate facilities and highly qualified teachers nurtured the intellectual growth young Nigerians (Bamigboye, Ede & Adeyemi, 2016).
The 1980s marked the era of dramatic turn when economic mismanagement, coupled with oil price shocks, plunged the nation into a deep recession. The revenue of the Government shrank and its ability to support education and provide employment opportunities dwindled. The once-thriving education system began to falter, with infrastructure deteriorating and the morale of teachers sinking (Odupitan, 2017). Amidst the economic turmoil, corruption took root, further exacerbating the challenges the Nigerian youths faced. Notably, the diversion of public funds away from education and into the pockets of corrupt officials crippled the system, leaving schools underfunded and ill-equipped (Durojaiye, 2017).
The once-hopeful narrative for Nigerian youths transformed into a tale of struggle and resilience. They grappled with the harsh realities of unemployment, inadequate education and a society plagued by corruption. Beautiful dreams were shattered as promises by Government remained unkept. Today, the Nigerian youth is confronted by several challenges including restricted access to functional and qualitative education, limited access to employment, lack of access to business support funds and migration, lack of access to reliable health support, over exposure to negative western cultures, distanced from cherished cultural values, over exposure to the culture of greed and corruption, as well as ethnicity and lack of national consciousness (Umezulike, 2015). Despite these challenges, Nigerian youths have demonstrated remarkable resilience and innovation, as they have embraced entrepreneurship, creating their own opportunities in an increasingly informal economy. Significantly, they have harnessed the power of technology to connect, learn and share ideas. They have also become advocates for social change, demanding better governance and transparency. Their role in the 2023 General Election was seen by the blind and heard by the deaf. It may not be an exaggeration to say that the dead was alive to their impact.
Furthermore, the future of the Nigerian youth hinges on the nation’s ability to address the systemic challenges that have undermined their progress. Nevertheless, the Nigerian youth, with their inherent resilience and untapped potential, hold the key to the nation’s revival. This paper therefore examines the facts, fantasies and fallacies of the survival instincts of the Nigerian youth in a dynamic time.
DEFINITION OF TERMS
Survival: This is act of continuing to live or exist despite great danger or difficulty.
Instinct: According to James (1890), this is defined as the faculty of acting in such a way as to produce certain ends, without foresight of the ends, and without previous education in the performance.
Youth: According to the United Nations (2010), Youth is best understood as a period of transition from the dependence of childhood to adulthood’s independence.
Dynamic: This can be defined as a being characterised by constant or continuous change, activity or movement (Collins Dictionary, 2023).
Time: The indefinite continued progress of existence and events that occur in apparently irreversible succession from the past through the present to the future (Oxford Dictionary, 2023).
Fact: A truth known by actual observation or experience (Dictionary.com, 2023).
Fantasy: This is the power or process of creating especially unrealistic or improbable mental images in response to psychological need (Merriam Webster, 2023).
Fallacy: A fallacy is an idea which many people believe to be true, but which is in fact false because it is based on incorrect information or reasoning (Collins Dictionary, 2023).
SCOPE
The scope of this paper is structured into time, space and content. The period the paper covers is from the 1990s till date. This period covers an era that has undergone several changes that is manifest in the way of life of the Nigerian youth, when comparing the golden era and present day. The geographical space covered is Nigeria. The content is delimited to youth behaviour, lifestyle and means for survival.
METHODOLOGY
Observation Survey was used in this paper. It was used to gather qualitative data about the behaviour, interactions and environments of youths in Nigeria. Basically, it is all my participatory observation of the happenings around me and in the society where I live.
LIMITATION
The major limitation is the limited timeframe to make this presentation.
CAUSES OF YOUTH DESPONDENCY
i. Economic Downturn
Economic downturn affects young people, which leads to despondency and hopelessness and this is due to several reasons such as inadequate employment opportunities, increased financial strain, diminished educational opportunities, social isolation and loss of hope. Job losses are common during economic downturns and this makes it more difficult for young people to secure employment, which leads to feelings of frustration, anxiety and uncertainty about the future. For instance, Nigeria’s economic growth slowed to 3.52 per cent in the Fourth Quarter of 2023 from 3.98 per cent in 2022, as widespread flooding destroyed farms, oil production declined and industry was squeezed by rising costs Ohuocha, (2023). According to the Nigeria Bureau of Statistics [NBS] (2022), full-year growth stood at 3.1 per cent in 2022, which was in tandem with the projection of World Bank. Although the agriculture sector grew, its performance was significantly fraught with severe flooding that occurred across the country. The NBS (2022) also reported that the Industry sector recorded -0.94 per cent growth and contributing less to the aggregate GDP, which was relative to the Third Quarter of 2022 and the Fourth Quarter of 2021. These developments have caused hardship, which has resulted to the difficulty of youths to afford basic necessities such as housing, food and healthcare. Naturally, this has brought about despondency to the youths.
ii. Poor Education Standard
While high standard of education is capable of motivating youths and preparing them for future success, poor education standard is capable of causing frustration and despondency. Poor education standard in the country is caused by low budgetary allocation, lack of motivation in the educational sector, inadequate facilities and poor management among many others. Furthermore, the state of education in Nigeria has been worrisome over the years. We have one of the lowest literacy rates globally with only 59 per cent of the adult population able to read and write. This is in spite of our largest population in Africa, largest economy on the continent and largest democracy among black people of the world.
iii. Unemployment and Underemployment
Unemployment and underemployment are both significant challenges in Nigeria, thereby contributing to youth despondency. Youth unemployment rate was 33.3 per cent in the third quarter of 2020 and underemployment rate was 22.8 per cent during the same period (National Bureau of Statistics [NBS], 2021). Notably, the major factors contributing to unemployment and underemployment among the Nigerian youths include limited job opportunities, inadequate skills and training and economic downturns. These facts have profound impact on youth despondency, which include limited income and financial strain, social exclusion and stigma, diminished self-esteem and confidence, as well as unfulfilled aspirations and limited opportunities.
iv. Population Explosion
Population explosion in Nigeria is characterised by a rapid increase in the number of people. This phenomenon is marked by feelings of hopelessness, despair and a lack of motivation among the youth population. The United Nations [UN] estimates that Nigeria’s population is about 211 million. However, the country’s growth rate is higher than the global average, which is 1.1 per cent. As youth population grows without concomitant increase in economic development, competition for scarce resources, such as education, employment and basic amenities intensifies. Furthermore, a rapidly growing population without commensurate growth in facilities puts a strain on infrastructure and vital amenities such as schools, hospitals and public transportation. This ultimately results in overcrowded facilities, inadequate resources and diminished service quality. In addition, the rapid growth of youths outpaces job creation, which leads to shortage of employment opportunities. This outcome affects the youths as they end up facing prolonged periods of unemployment or underemployment.
v. Low Standard of Living
Low standard of living in Nigeria affects the mental and emotional well-being of the youths, contributing significantly to feelings of despondency. Nigeria’s poverty rate was 43.3 per cent in 2021, with an estimated 87 million people living in poverty (Yazi, 2023). Notably, low standard of living causes youth despondency as a result of limited economic opportunities, financial strain, poverty, inadequate access to education, poor healthcare services, homelessness, insecurity, limited access to basic amenities, as well as social inequalities and discrimination.
vi. Inappropriate Education Curriculum and Inadequate Labour/Skill Capacity
The misalignment between education curriculum and labour market requirements contributes to youth despondency in Nigeria in various ways. One way is when education curriculum is unable to equip youths with the adequate skills and competencies that are demanded by the labour market. This creates a skills gap that hinders youth employability. The education system sometimes fosters unrealistic expectations about job prospects and career paths, leading graduates to believe that their qualifications will automatically translate into desirable and well-paying employment.
CONSEQUENCES OF YOUTH RESENTMENT
A. Positive Outcomes
i. Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurship in Nigeria is pivotal to the country’s economic growth, as Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) now account for about 49.8 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and 85 per cent of total industrial employment. In situation of disillusionment with the status quo, the youths have been driven to seek alternative paths to success and fulfilment as many have positively embraced entrepreneurship . They are widespread across all sectors of the economy and have been instrumental in providing creative solutions, innovative ideas and value creation. Significantly, the factors that trigger entrepreneurial spirit among resentful youth include dissatisfaction with existing opportunities, desire for autonomy and control, ambition to make a difference and rebellion against the norm among others. Entrepreneurship as a result of youth resentment in Nigeria has led to positive outcomes such as innovation, job creation, economic growth, social impact and change, personal growth and development, as well as empowerment and self-determination.
ii. Creative Economy
In recent years, youths have been seeking alternatives to white-collar employment as possible solutions to the problem of economic hardship and unemployment and the creative sector, which comprises Media and Entertainment, Beauty and Lifestyle, Visual Arts, as well as Tourism and Hospitality, has thrived in this regard. In 2019 alone, the film and music industries alone generated $104 million dollars into the country’s economy (Dandaura, 2020). Similarly, the NBS projects that the industry is expected to reach a valuation of $15billion by 2025. The sector employs about 4.2 million people and is projected to create additional 2.7 jobs in 2028 (The African Report, Jobberman, 2023). Significantly, the creative economy generates empowerment through self-expression, economic opportunities in the arts and culture, cultural innovation and representation, job creation and entrepreneurship, as well as global visibility and impact. Thus, the emergence of the creative economy which has also led to the change in nomenclature of the superintending ministry at the federal level to that of Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy can be viewed as a positive consequence of youth resentment in Nigeria.
iii. Sports Development and Competencies
Sports has become an important aspect of Nigerian culture so much that the interest in and popularity of sports have affected the political, social, economic and educational fabrics of the nation (Mohammed, 2017). According to Amuchie, (1999) sports is a mirror of the society; games provide a touch stone for understanding how people live, work, think and play as well as serving as barometer of a nation’s progress and civilisation. Sports development serve as positive consequence of youth resentment in Nigeria by providing avenues for physical and mental wellbeing, fostering teamwork and leadership skills, promoting community engagement, and instilling a sense of identity and purpose (Mohammed, 2017). Youths have been able to develop competences that contribute to their personal growth, as well as the overall development of their communities. The number of Nigerian youths who are taking to sports as means of livelihood has continued to increase, and this is not limited to popular games like football, rather Nigerian names are all over the sports arena, even when and where some of them are not donning the Nigerian jersey or flying Nigerian flag.
iv. ICT Innovation
Over the years, Nigeria has enjoyed the role of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in fostering economic growth, enhancing governance and driving societal development. Consequently, Nigerian youths have turned to ICT as a way to cope with their frustrations and express their creativity. Significantly, ICT has provided a platform for the youths to connect with the world, share ideas and develop new skills (Gwani, 2023). This has led to the emergence of a vibrant and innovative ICT in the country. In addition, ICT innovation is creating jobs and businesses, as it is aiding in the improvement of access to education, healthcare and other essential services.
v. Higher Degrees
The resentment of the Nigerian youths against the status quo has equally driven them to pursue higher degrees in their numbers. The number of Nigeria Youths pursuing higher degrees in tertiary institutions across the globe is unprecedented and many of them are graduating with distinctions and laurels. Youth resentment in Nigeria is partly attributed to frustration over limited opportunities and challenges accessing quality education and pursuing higher degrees such as Masters and Doctoral programmes. The acquisition of higher degrees empowers the youths by providing them with advanced knowledge and skills, as education remains a powerful tool for personal and professional growth, therefore obtaining higher degrees enables the youths to overcome barriers and equip them with the qualifications necessary for specialised roles.
vi. Expatriate Migration
Many professional youths who are highly qualified have become mobile as their expertise is being sought across the globe. Records indicate that Nigeria has the highest number of migrant medical practitioners in the United States. Quite a number of these professionals have also ventured into politics and governance in their host countries as some of them are presently holding legislative and executive positions. These professionals have migrated legally to their host countries and they are appropriately rewarded,
vii. Participation in Politics
The dissatisfaction being experienced by youths has spurred their desire change and reform in the country. This is because resentment also stems from dissatisfaction with the existing political system, governance or societal structures. This outcome has motivated youths in the country to become active in politics, with the goal of bringing about positive change and reform by promoting greater representation and inclusion of diverse voices in the political landscape, holding elected officials accountable and ensuring that they address the needs and concerns of young people injecting new ideas and perspectives into the political process, as well as promoting civic engagement and a sense of ownership among young people in the community. For instance, youth participation in the 2023 general elections made up over 60 per cent of the eligible voting population. According to Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), more than half of new voters are young people aged 18-34 years. Of the 9.4 million newly registered voters, 7.28 million or 76 per cent of them are young people. In terms of occupation, the data showed that 40 per cent of new voters identified as students, who at 27.8 per cent, made up almost twice the number of the next class of voters—farmers at 15.8 per cent of all voters (Akinmoju, 2023).
viii. Modern Day Trade
Youths are exploring alternative avenues for economic empowerment. Modern-day trade, which encompasses e-ecommerce, online platforms, and cross-border transactions has availed Nigerian youths with unprecedented access to global markets and opportunities. Significantly, young entrepreneurs are leveraging on technology and digital tools. This has resulted in a vibrant and diverse trading landscape in the country. These have had positive impacts on youth engagement in modern-day trade by fostering economic empowerment and job creation, skill development and innovation, as well as global connectivity and market expansion.
ix. Food and Recreation
Food has become a thriving medium for self-expression, cultural exploration and entrepreneurial ventures for youths. They are experimenting with global flavours, while incorporating local ingredients, introducing fusion cuisine and reinterpreting traditional dishes. These can be seen in street food evolution, pop-up restaurants and food festivals, as well as fusion cuisine and global flavours. The culinary creativity is not only transforming the food landscape in Nigeria, but also contributing to the country’s economic growth, cultural vibrancy and international recognition. The value addition here is the opportunities of job creation and economic empowerment, as well as cultural preservation and innovation. The number of Amala Restaurants in major cities across the globe, particularly in Nigeria, Africa, Europe and North America is unprecedented.
x. Football Viewing Centres
Football shows offer a welcome distraction from the daily struggles faced by youths in the country. These shows provide an immersive and entertaining escape from the harsh realities of life, giving room for youths the opportunity to connect with their favourite teams, cheer on their idols and experience the thrill of competition and camaraderie. These have ultimately brought about stress relief and emotional wellbeing, sense of community and belonging, cultural expression and identity formation. Many youths, even in the remotest villages, hamlets and clans have set up football viewing centres where they make money from viewers almost everyday of the week.
B. Negative Outcomes
i. Sale and Purchase of Employment Slots
The sale and purchase of employment slots in Nigeria is a concerning phenomenon that has emerged a negative consequence of youth resentment and desperation. However, there are several factors that contribute to this daunting phenomenon, which include unemployment and underemployment, corruption and lack of transparency, as well as political patronage and influence. In 2020, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) lamented the widespread commercialisation of federal civil service employment slots by key officials in government (Nwachukwu, 2020). Similarly, soon after the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), discovered N9.2bn as over-bloated personnel costs of some Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), the affected MDAs went on secret recruitments to cover-up the alleged scam (Ndagi, 2019). This practice undermines the principles of meritocracy and fairness, perpetuates inequality and exacerbates the already challenging employment landscape for young Nigerians.
ii. Internet Fraud (419)
Internet fraud is a serious problem in Nigeria. It is often associated with activities like phishing, online scams, and cybercrime. The term or code “419” is coined from section 419 of the Nigerian criminal code which specifically deals with crimes related to false pretenses and deceit. Internet fraud encompasses romance scam, lottery scam, phishing and cheque overpayment scam. Notably, this menace has negative effects on the country’s image that include tarnishing the country’s reputation, lack of trust and confidence, denied opportunities for Nigerians abroad and inimical to the progress and development of the country (Ezedikachi, 2021).
Between January and June, 2023, about three thousand (3,000) Nigerian youths have either been arrested or jailed for their involvement in internet fraud. However, the more they are arrested and jailed, the numbers of these scammers dominate the records of the Economic and Financial Crims Commission (EFCC) (Leadership Newspaper, January, 2023).
iii. Cultism
Cultism is common among the youths in Nigeria. Just like internet fraud, it is not in every case that cultism can be directly attributed to youth resentment. It is a form of social organisation where a group of people is united by shared beliefs, values and practices. Cultism is undeniably one of the social vices setting the hand of the developmental clock of Nigeria backwards. The unabated atrocities of secret cults in the society continue to take tolls on the lives of Nigerians (Mediayanose, 2016). Nigeria has a high unemployment rate, especially among the youths, which can make people turn to cults for a sense of belonging, purpose and security. In addition, the widespread inequality in the country can make youths feel marginalised and resentful, and this is capable of making them more receptive to the message of cults, which often promise to avail them power, status and sense of belonging.
iv. Rituals for Wealth
Money ritual, also referred to as “juju ritual” is a practice believed to bring wealth and prosperity through supernatural means. In extreme and dastardly means, these rituals often involve the use of human as sacrifice, as well as manipulation of spiritual forces. While economic hardship and unemployment can be causative factors, rituals are also linked to the culture of materialism and instant gratification. The society places a high value on material possessions and social status, which emphasises on material success that can lead to unrealistic expectations and a desire for quick wealth. However, eradicating this practice requires a concerted effort from government agencies, religious leaders, community organisations and individuals.
v. Miscreants, Area Boys and Political Thugs
Miscreants, area boys and political thugs are negative consequences of youth resentment in Nigeria. Miscreants are individuals who engage in petty crime, violence or other forms of antisocial behaviour. While area boys are often seen as a symbol of urban decay and disorder as they engage in activities such as harassing passersby, demanding money or committing petty theft. Political thugs are individuals used for violence, intimidation or threat to influence the outcome of elections or political processes. It is a widespread problem that involves the use of miscreants and area boys to carry out acts of violence.
vi. Japa Syndrome
Japa is a Nigerian slang word that can be translated as escape or runaway. It is the growing desire among Nigerian youths to leave the country in search of better opportunities abroad. This desire is often influenced by a sense of frustration and resentment over the lack of opportunities, economic hardship and social challenges faced in the country. A survey from the Nigeria Social Cohesion Survey revealed that seven (7) out of ten (10) Nigerians are willing to relocate to other countries for various reasons, with a good number of them recording success. Currently, there is still the increasing rate of an emerging urge to leave Nigeria, especially by the youths. Now, the current net Nigeria migration rate is -0.273 per 1000 population, indicating that more people are emigrating from the country (Olutudun, 2023). Consequently, this phenomenon fuels brain drain, loss of potential leaders, reduced cultural vibrancy and diversity, as well as erosion of national pride and identity. Japa is considered negative where the individuals concerned emigrate illegally, especially with the use of false documents or going through illegal routes.
vii. Insecurity
Insecurity is a complex phenomenon with no easy solutions. It has become something of grave concern to all well-meaning citizens. It can be characterised by terrorism, kidnapping and insurgency. Insecurity has become perversive, affecting individuals, communities and the nation at large. It can be influenced by various factors and youth resentment is one of the contributing elements to this dire issue. The South-West is plagued by a surge in cybercrime, armed robbery, kidnapping, domestic crime, extrajudicial killings, herder-farmer conflicts, ritual killings and banditry. The South-East is a haven for ritual killings, commercial crime, secessionist agitation, kidnapping, herder-farmer clashes and attacks by unknown gunmen. The North-East has been subject to humanitarian crisis, lasting over a decade and caused by the Boko Haram insurgency and the Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP). Meanwhile, the North-West is enmeshed in illegal mining, ethno-religious killings and banditry (Agbelusi, 2022). The North Central is home to banditry, abduction, farmer-harder clashes, ethno-religious crisis and other forms criminalities. The South-South houses resource control agitators, cultists, armed gangs, sea pirates, oil thieves and political thugs among others. The greatest number of participants and invariably the highest number casualties in these crimes are youth who are lured into these activities by unemployment and the desire to make quick fortunes. Naturally, it is easy for youths to subscribe to and be influenced into subscribing to any of the security threats as a result of unemployment, poverty, marginalisation, political instability and radicalisation among others.
viii. Drugs and Narcotics
Drugs and narcotics use among Nigerian youths is a concern, with estimates suggesting that over 10 per cent of young people have used illicit substances. The common drugs used by youths include cannabis, cocaine, heroin, and other hard drugs. However, as a result of resentment, which stems from an interplay of socio-economic and cultural factors, some Nigerian youths turn to drugs and narcotics as a means of escape, seeking temporary relief from their frustrations and hardships. Specifically, a prevalence of 20–40 per cent and 20.9 per cent of drug abuse was reported among students and youths, respectively. Commonly abused drugs include cannabis, cocaine, amphetamine, heroin, diazepam, codeine, cough syrup and tramadol (Jatau, et al, 2021).
ix. Prostitution and Human Trafficking
The practices of prostitution and human trafficking are often fuelled by poverty, lack of economic opportunities and desperation that have devastating consequences for individuals, families and society as a whole. In the face of these challenges, some young women and girls turn to prostitution as a means of survival, seeking financial independence in a world that has marginalised them. Consequently, prostitution often keep them trapped in a circle of exploitation, abuse and vulnerability. Similarly, human trafficking networks prey on the desperation and vulnerability of young women and girls, luring them with promises of better lives and opportunities.
Nigeria remains a source, transit and destination country when it comes to human trafficking. According to the US Department of State (2022), Nigeria ranked 38/160 of the countries with the highest number of slaves; 1.6 million and its National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) reports that the highest number of trafficked persons in Nigeria, which maintains its posture as a Tier 2 country are women who are 18+ (US Department of State, 2022). However, the consequences go beyond the individual victims, thereby having ripple effects on families, communities and society in general.
SWOT ANALYSIS
Strengths
Weaknesses
i. Enterprising
ii. Innovative
iii. Well educated
iv. Liberal Economy
v. Funding and Financing
vi. Democracy
vii. Abundance of Land
viii. Government Platform (New Ministries of Creative Economy, Blue Economy and ICT Economy)
ix. Large population
x. Large democracy
i. Docile and Laziness
ii. Warped Education
iii. Drugs and Narcotics
iv. Stereotype
v. Thuggery
vi. Fraudulent
Opportunities
Threats
i. Biggest Economy
ii. Biggest Population
iii. Biggest Democracy
iv. Regional Market
v. New Foreign Policy on Dignity, Diplomacy, Development and Diaspora
vi. Brain Gain
vii. Renewed Hope Agenda
viii. Change in Political Narrative
ix. Negative Image of the Youth
x. Negative Image of the Country
xi. Insecurity
xii. Wasted Generation
xiii. High Mortality Rates
xiv. Foreign Domination of Local Economy
Conclusion
There is no doubt that Nigeria as a developing nation, just like many others of its like is going through serious challenges including economic downturn, inflation, global economic recession, dollarisation of global economy, devaluation of local currency, high cost of governance, insecurity, bad governance and instability among others. These are all facts of the present situation which have all taken their tolls on the Nigerian youths. Meanwhile, the survival instincts of the Nigerian youth, a manifestation of their resilience and resourcefulness have enabled them to navigate a dynamic and often challenging landscape. These instincts, shaped by both internal and external factors, have led to diverse strategies for coping, adapting, and striving towards a better future. Nigerian youths have demonstrated remarkable ability to identify and exploit opportunities, adapting to changing circumstances, and making the most of limited resources.
Recognising the importance of education, many Nigerian youths are actively pursuing academic and vocational training to enhance their employability and prospects. Driven by the need for self-sufficiency and economic opportunities, many Nigerian youths are venturing into entrepreneurship, establishing businesses and creating employment for themselves and others.
Nigerian youths are showcasing their creativity and innovation in various fields, including arts, technology, and social enterprises. Recognising the power of collective action, Nigerian youths are actively engaging in social movements, advocating for change and promoting social justice. These are additional facts related and attendants to youths’ survival instincts in Nigeria.
Furthermore, some Nigerian youths harbour fantasies of achieving quick wealth and effortless success, leading to involvement in risky or illegal activities. The pervasiveness of social media and exposure to idealized lifestyles have created unrealistic expectations among Nigerian youths, leading to feelings of inadequacy and frustration.
The pursuit of instant gratification and material possessions is leading to a neglect of long-term goals and personal development of the promising youth population. Blaming external factors and circumstances without taking responsibility for one’s own actions can hinder personal growth and progress.
The unfortunate belief of the youths in rituals for wealth, that education is a scam, that life abroad is the Golden Fleece, that drugs and narcotics are necessities for self confidence and that Nigeria is a failed enterprise among other negativities are all fallacies.
Survival instincts, when harnessed effectively, can drive positive outcomes, such as perseverance, resilience, and innovation. It also stems from a desire for self-improvement, personal growth, and a better future. Survival instincts can also motivate individuals to contribute to their communities and work for the betterment of society. Hence, Survival instincts can be guided by ethical principles and a sense of social responsibility. Conclusively and based on empirical studies, it is certain that if the youths can used, direct and deploy all their talents, knowledge, education and instincts positively, their situation and that of the country would be better. It maybe time for us to give more youths opportunities in government while guiding them most appropriately.
Recommendations
i. Promote education and skills development: We need to expand access to quality education and vocational training to equip young Nigerians with the skills they need to succeed in the job market and pursue their aspirations.
ii. Encourage entrepreneurship and innovation: We should foster a supportive environment for young entrepreneurs by providing access to funding, mentorship, and business resources. Celebrate and reward innovative ideas and entrepreneurial ventures among youths.
iii. Nurture creativity and artistic expression: We must continue to encourage and support participation in arts, music and creative endeavours, providing platforms for young Nigerians to showcase their talents and express themselves.
iv. Promote civic engagement and social activism: We should empower young Nigerians to participate actively in civic life, providing opportunities for them to engage in community service, advocacy, and decision-making processes.
v. Address socio-economic disparities: We must enact and implement policies and programmes that will reduce poverty, improve access to healthcare, and address other socio-economic barriers that hinder youth development.
vi. Combat discriminatory practices: Enact and enforce laws and policies that protect young Nigerians from discrimination, violence, and disenfranchisement. We need t o revisit our quota system and federal character principles and policies to make them respond to current realities. It is apparent that every section of the country now has abundance of human resources that can compete side by side without discriminating against one another.
vii. Promote positive role models and narratives: We should develop national and sub-national platforms to highlight the achievements and contributions of successful Nigerian youths, showcasing their resilience, creativity, and positive impact on society.
viii. Encourage open dialogue and mentorship: We need to create opportunities for intergenerational dialogue and mentorship, fostering a culture of mutual understanding and support between young Nigerians and experienced mentors.
ix. Invest in youth-led initiatives: The Nation should introduce affirmative action to support and fund youth-led organisations and initiatives that address the specific needs and concerns of young Nigerians.
x. Promote mental health awareness and support: The Nation must provide access to mental health services and counselling for young Nigerians, addressing the emotional and psychological challenges they may face.
* Yusuf Lawal, Ph.D, fsi, FNIM, a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Abuja delivered lecture at Annual Lecture and Aeard Ceremony of Kwara Tabloid in Ilorin
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