By Kenneth Chibuogwu Gbandi
In the face of unprecedented socio-economic challenges, Nigeria finds itself at a critical juncture, grappling with the aftermath of bad leadership, widespread insecurity, and a deteriorating economic landscape. The populace, burdened by the high cost of fuel, depreciation of the Naira, and soaring inflation rates, has resorted to seeking solace in what has been termed the New Palliative Political Philosophy (3Ps). This emergent paradigm has garnered momentum as a response to the prevailing hardships, yet it necessitates careful examination and a holistic approach to ensure a visible long-term economic solutions and sustainability.
It is undeniable that many Nigerians have relinquished their hopes amidst the political hunger game orchestrated by prevailing economic woes. The exorbitant prices of basic commodities, escalating unemployment rates, pervasive hunger, educational disruptions, and surging criminal activities are symptomatic of the failures of the political class and their flawed economic policies. While the adoption of palliative measures may temporarily alleviate some hardships, they must not serve as substitutes for comprehensive economic reforms that prioritize youth empowerment, agricultural modernization, good governance, and infrastructural development.
Nigeria teeters on the brink of becoming a nation dependent on palliative interventions, a trajectory fraught with dire socio-economic repercussions. The allocation of millions of Naira towards what are often token palliative packages, consisting of a few kilograms of rice, half-bottles of cooking oil, and other consumables, pales in comparison to the transformative potential of investing such resources in sustainable development initiatives.
What Nigeria urgently requires is a multifaceted approach that focuses on youth capacity building, entrepreneurial support, modernization of agricultural practices, access to sustainable loans, prioritization of education and research, and substantial investments in critical infrastructure. However, achieving these objectives necessitates a paradigm shift in governance, one that embraces the principles of national unity, restructuring, and true federalism.
A government of national unity must spearhead the imperative task of restructuring Nigeria’s socio-political framework, ensuring equitable distribution of resources and opportunities across diverse regions. True federalism is indispensable in fostering inclusivity and empowering local governments to address grassroots challenges effectively. Anything short of these fundamental reforms amounts to nothing more than a reprieve, postponing the inevitable reckoning with the looming specter of socio-economic collapse.
In conclusion, while the New Palliative Political Philosophy (3Ps) may offer fleeting relief in the face of immediate hardships, it cannot serve as a panacea for Nigeria’s deep-rooted socio-economic malaise. Sustainable solutions lie in visionary leadership, proactive governance, and a steadfast commitment to implementing comprehensive reforms that prioritize the welfare and prosperity of all Nigerians. The time for action is now, lest we condemn future generations to inherit the consequences of our inaction and complacency.
Hon (Dr.) Kenneth Chibuogwu Gbandi is an expert in peace and security studies. Served as Anti-Discrimination Committee Chairman, Hamburg Senate Foreigners Advisory Council, current National Deputy Chairman (Diaspora Engagement) African Democratic Congress (ADC), and the longest-serving Diaspora leader (2013-2020). A Senate candidate Delta North for the 2023 General Election (kenneth.gbandi@agic-hamburg.de)
