Nigeria, despite its wealth of resources, suffers from poverty, corruption, and instability. The article argues for the formation of a developmentalist coalition committed to national progress through collaborative efforts focused on economic and social well-being. This coalition should prioritize governance, productivity, job creation, and educational reform to effectively address Nigeria’s systemic challenges and foster sustainable development.
Nigeria possesses vast resources and potential but continues to struggle with significant challenges, including poverty, corruption, unemployment, and social inequality. The emergence of ethnic militias and terrorism, compounded by violent disputes over land between armed herdsmen and rural communities, exacerbates the urgent need for socioeconomic reform. Concerningly, ineffective economic management and an inadequate political framework hinder the progress necessary for sustainable development.
As a political scientist specializing in development economics, I assert that Nigeria’s crises arise from a lack of a united coalition prioritizing the nation’s interests. I refer to this necessary coalition as a “developmentalist coalition,” composed of individuals who are committed to national progress through development nationalism. Development nationalism emphasizes unity and dedication to enhancing the country’s capabilities to promote prosperity for all citizens.
The primary objective of this coalition must be to improve the productivity of Nigeria’s economy and elevate the quality of life for its citizens. Measurable outcomes would include establishing a reliable governance structure rooted in the rule of law and ensuring the provision of essential public services. This could disrupt the cycle of underdevelopment and foster lasting advancements.
In many developed nations, developmentalist coalitions play a crucial role in shaping their political and economic landscapes. Countries such as China, South Korea, and Singapore exemplify this phenomenon, demonstrating how a dedicated elite can produce significant progress, often forming political parties or influencing existing ones to uphold national development goals.
Since Nigeria’s independence in 1960, its political and economic leaders have predominantly prioritized personal gain over nationalistic interests, failing to diversify the economy and create employment opportunities for youth. For instance, funding allocated to education has consistently fallen below the 26% of the national budget suggested by UNESCO. Consequently, most young Nigerians engage in the informal sector with precarious job conditions and insufficient wages, showcasing the systemic neglect of this demographic.
Although there are numerous individuals in Nigeria dedicated to development, the lack of a cohesive coalition prevents them from collectively investing in the nation’s human capital and promoting necessary industrial growth. The time is optimal for forming this coalition to redirect Nigeria’s governance and developmental path.
To facilitate meaningful change, it is imperative that this coalition of developmental elites is guided by leaders who possess a compelling vision for national unity and progress. Forming a political party could be a path to gaining the necessary political power to enact change. Discipline within the party will be crucial, with members expected to prioritize collective national interests over individual aspirations.
In summary, the establishment of a developmentalist coalition is essential for addressing corruption, enhancing Nigeria’s manufacturing capabilities, and cultivating a vibrant digital economy. Additionally, this coalition should advocate for agro-allied industry growth, infrastructure investment, job creation, and poverty alleviation, ultimately striving for a democratic system that genuinely serves the populace.
The article outlines the pressing issues Nigeria faces, including economic mismanagement, poor governance, and a lack of collective national interest among its leadership. It advocates for the formation of a developmentalist coalition composed of like-minded individuals to foster economic growth and social cohesion. By prioritizing national interests and enhancing productivity, this coalition aims to enact lasting improvements in governance and achieve significant progress for the country.
Original Source: theconversation.com
