I was going through an article written by Emeka E, Okafor and I came across a sentence that really amazed me. It goes that Nigeria is a country which has everything and produces nothing, and Japan is a country which has nothing and produces everything. Indeed he has hit a nerve. He is absolutely right. In terms of natural and human resources, Nigeria tops other African countries. And we can very well say that Nigeria is one of the richest in Africa also. One just has to go through records to know the amount we earn every single day from petroleum. To get a little idea, Nigeria is the sixth largest exporter of crude oil and has extensive reserves of natural gas, solid minerals and forest resources. In terms of human resources, well the population is almost hitting 180 million. So among this 180 million, where are all our scientists, innovators, etc? Why are we ranked among poor countries with all these resources? Who is to blame? The leaders, citizens, the land itself? Is it a cause that we cannot change our destiny in that continent for better?
My friend just came back from Nigeria and was sharing with me how he was amazed at the display of wealth in Abuja. He said he saw a young girl driving the latest Mercedes Benz that is yet to be released. Indeed there is wealth but only a few control and have this wealth. I think it is disgraceful for our leaders to let this trend continue. The wealth should be adequately used so that none will lack any necessary social amenities or infrastructure. Why will young university boys and girls be happy when they see some people display wealth and know that they will never have the same chance only through crime and corruption?
Not until our Leaders learn that with great power comes great responsibility, we would keep wallowing in the quagmire of poverty and inadequacies even in the midst of plenty.
ReplyDeleteGreed and lack of proper maintenance culture is the major cause of our aches. We operate a selfish society where senile and ego-centric politicians or public office holders would rather die in their positions than give it up to capable hands who can effect the desired change! I can't wait for that time in the nearest future when all our aches would be a thing of the past and we would be proud to say I am a NIGERIAN!
God bless Nigeria
"Nigeria is a country which has everything and produces nothing, and Japan is a country which has nothing and produces everything." It couldn't have been said better. You can imagine what Nigeria would be like if with us having 'everything', we also produce 'everything'.
ReplyDeleteThank you for visiting my blog, and you are actually the first person [aside those I know] that is leaving a comment. Thank you very much. It's greatly appreciated.