Daniel UGWO

In the heart of Nigeria, a palpable sense of fatigue has settled among the populace. Many citizens have adhered to the age-old adage of hard work leading to success, investing their time and resources into education, skill acquisition, and employment. Yet, despite their diligence, they find themselves ensnared in a web of economic stagnation and social disillusionment. For countless Nigerians, the narrative has been clear: study hard, secure a good job, and you will thrive. However, this narrative has begun to crumble under the weight of reality. The job market is shrinking, with many graduates unable to find employment in their chosen fields. Those fortunate enough to secure positions often find that their salaries barely cover the rising costs of living. Rent continues to soar, groceries become increasingly expensive, and the gap between the wealthy elite and the struggling masses widens.

Statistics reveal a troubling trend: according to the National Bureau of Statistics, Nigeria's unemployment rate reached 33.3% in 2020, and there seem to be no trusted data on improvement in subsequent years. This reality has led many to question the validity of the “work hard and you will succeed” mantra. Is it possible that this belief was merely a tool used to keep citizens compliant while a small elite reaps the benefits of systemic exploitation? As citizens wrestle with these harsh truths, they are left feeling betrayed by a system that promised them prosperity but instead delivered stagnation. The rhetoric of “staying positive” and “hustling harder” rings hollow when faced with mounting evidence that hard work alone is insufficient for success in today’s Nigeria.

The Governments, Corporations, Schools, Media – including religious organization, all reading from the same script: keep people busy, keep them fighting each other and keep them desperate. Consistently, Nigerians are told to be grateful for food crumbs while a few people at the top decide everything. The crazy part? There are already enough resources and knowledge to make enough food to circulate. We have what we need. But we are stuck in this endless grind that only serves profit.

The political landscape in Nigeria often resembles a theatrical production more than a genuine effort to serve the public. Politicians make grand promises during election campaigns, only to abandon those commitments once in office. The result is a populace that feels ignored and disenfranchised. The political elite appears more concerned with maintaining their power and wealth than addressing the pressing issues facing everyday Nigerians. This disconnects between politicians and the citizenry has fostered an environment where cynicism flourishes. Many Nigerians have come to view politics as a game played by a select few, leaving the majority on the sidelines without a voice. As a result, trust in governmental institutions has eroded, leading to widespread apathy and disengagement from the political process.

Moreover, the economic policies implemented by those in power often prioritize corporate interests over the needs of ordinary citizens. This has created an environment where wealth accumulation is concentrated in the hands of a few, while the majority struggle to make ends meet. The notion of progress becomes tainted when it is evident that such advancements primarily benefit those who are already affluent.

The term “progress” has become a buzzword in Nigerian discourse, yet it often masks deeper issues of inequality and exploitation. Infrastructure projects, economic initiatives, and technological advancements are frequently heralded as signs of national growth. However, these developments often serve to displace local communities or further entrench existing power structures when misplaced. For instance, urbanization projects may lead to increased economic activity but can also result in the displacement of long-standing communities without adequate compensation or support.

Similarly, while technological advancements have the potential to improve lives, they can also exacerbate inequalities if access remains limited to those with financial means. The narrative surrounding progress in Nigeria must be reframed to focus on inclusivity and equity. True progress should not merely be measured by economic indicators but should also consider the well-being of all citizens. This requires a shift in mindset from viewing development as a top-down process to recognizing the importance of grassroots initiatives that empower local communities. As Nigerians navigate this complex landscape, many feel as though the system is rigged against them. Despite their best efforts, they encounter barriers at every turn—whether through nepotism in hiring practices, corruption within institutions, or inflated costs for basic necessities. This sense of futility breeds frustration and disillusionment. The reality is that systemic inequalities are deeply entrenched in Nigerian society. Wealthy elites wield significant influence over political and economic decisions, often at the expense of the broader population. This concentration of power creates an environment where opportunities for upward mobility are limited for those without connections or resources.

Moreover, societal structures often reinforce these disparities. Education systems may favour those who can afford private schooling, while healthcare access remains a privilege rather than a right. The result is a cycle of disadvantage that perpetuates inequality across Nigerian generations.

In light of these challenges, it becomes imperative to explore alternative pathways toward building a system that works for the people rather than for power. One potential avenue lies in fostering community-based initiatives that prioritize cooperation over competition. They painted the country as though she is poor, just to make us feal pity.  Maybe we need to stop playing along. What if we actually built something different, something run by regular people, not corporations or politicians, not banks? Something transparent, fair, decentralized. Crypto Currency showed that it is possible to create systems without gatekeepers. Could we go further?

Build real communities where people trade, support each other, create value together without someone skimming off the top? I am not talking about some fantasy revolution. I mean finding purpose again, connection and dignity. What would it actually take to build a system that works for people instead of power? What skills do we need? What steps? What structure?

 

The rise of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology offers a glimpse into what decentralized systems could look like. By eliminating intermediaries and allowing individuals to transact directly with one another, these technologies empower communities to take control of their economic destinies. Imagine a Nigeria where local currencies facilitate trade within communities, reducing reliance on traditional banking systems that often exclude marginalized populations. Such systems could enable individuals to support one another directly, fostering a sense of solidarity and shared purpose. Cooperatives present another viable solution for addressing economic disparities. By pooling resources and sharing profits, cooperative models allow individuals to work together toward common goals. Whether in agriculture, retail, or services, cooperatives can provide an alternative to corporate structures that prioritize profit over people. For example, agricultural cooperatives can empower farmers by enabling them to collectively purchase supplies, access markets, and negotiate fair prices for their products. This model not only enhances economic stability but also strengthens community ties.

To build a system that works for everyone, there must be an emphasis on education and skill development tailored to local needs. Traditional education models often fail to equip individuals with practical skills relevant to their communities. By prioritizing vocational training and entrepreneurship programs, we can empower citizens to create value within their own neighbourhoods.

Furthermore, fostering a culture of lifelong learning can help individuals adapt to changing economic landscapes. This includes promoting digital literacy and technical skills that enable participation in emerging industries. Building a system that serves the people requires active engagement and advocacy at all levels. Citizens must feel empowered to voice their concerns and hold leaders accountable for their actions. This can be achieved through grassroots movements that prioritize transparency and inclusivity in decision-making processes. Engaging with local representatives, participating in town hall meetings, and advocating for policy changes are essential steps toward reclaiming power from entrenched elites. By fostering a culture of civic participation, we can create a more responsive political landscape that reflects the needs of all citizens.

A fundamental shift in mindset is necessary to overcome societal divisions that perpetuate inequality. Instead of viewing one another as competitors vying for limited resources, we must recognize our shared humanity and work collaboratively toward common goals. This involves fostering dialogue across different communities and encouraging empathy as a guiding principle in our interactions. By building connections based on mutual respect and understanding, we can create stronger networks that support collective action. Amidst this tumultuous landscape, many Nigerians are left wrestling with the following existential questions: How do we hold onto hope when it feels like the system rewards the worst among us? How do we find meaning when every direction we turn feels like a dead end? The answers lie not in passive acceptance but in active engagement with our realities. By seeking out community-driven solutions and prioritizing cooperation over competition, we can begin to reclaim our agency and reshape our futures. It is essential to remember that change does not happen overnight; the real change is not the politically motivated noise, it is the one which requires sustained effort and commitment from all members of society. The journey toward building a system that works for people will undoubtedly be troubled with challenges, but it is also filled with opportunities for growth and transformation.

As we reflect on the current state of Nigeria—a nation rich in resources yet plagued by inequality—it becomes clear that we must reimagine our approach to governance, economics, and community building. The time has come for Nigerians to unite in pursuit of a system that prioritizes people over power. By embracing decentralized economies, cooperative models, education reform, community engagement, and connection-building initiatives, we can lay the groundwork for a brighter future—one where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive. Let us move beyond mere rhetoric and engage in meaningful conversations about our collective potential. Together, we can forge new pathways toward dignity, connection, and purpose—transforming Nigeria into a nation that truly works for its people.