…..Decries the country’s report card of failing leadership and deepening challenges
By Marietta Munachimso
In a candid assessment of Nigeria’s state of affairs, Ike Oligbo (Ike Umuoji), a seasoned political figure and former Anambra State Governorship Aspirant, expressed deep disappointment in the trajectory of the nation. Speaking on the 64th anniversary of Nigeria’s independence, The United Nations award winning business mogul lamented the extreme hardship, lawlessness, and instability that have plagued the country.
According to Oligbo, Nigeria has reached its lowest point in modern history, citing failures across critical sectors including the economy, infrastructure, security, healthcare, and the general cost of living. “This is the worst period ever in Nigeria’s history, economically, infrastructure-wise, security-wise, health-wise, and regarding the overall cost of living,” Oligbo remarked. He further criticized the Federal administration under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing dissatisfaction with its handling of the country’s numerous crises.
Oligbo’s critique is rooted in the prevailing economic woes that have left millions of Nigerians grappling with poverty and unemployment. Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, continues to struggle with inflation, which has eroded the purchasing power of citizens and made basic necessities unaffordable. The removal of fuel subsidies has further exacerbated the cost of transportation and goods, disproportionately affecting the most vulnerable.
The naira has experienced significant depreciation, while Nigeria’s dependence on oil revenues remains a major weakness in its economic structure. This situation has been compounded by inadequate industrial growth, lack of diversification in the economy, and increasing foreign debt. The country’s inability to meet the basic economic needs of its population has led to widespread frustration and disillusionment, a sentiment echoed in Oligbo’s statement.
Nigeria’s infrastructure is in disrepair, with dilapidated roads, poor energy supply, and failing public services hindering development. Oligbo highlighted that many parts of the country lack access to reliable power and transportation networks, which stifles business growth and limits the quality of life. These infrastructure gaps have contributed to the country’s inability to create jobs and attract sustainable investments.
Nigeria faces a myriad of internal conflicts, from insurgency in the North-East by Boko Haram and ISWAP, to banditry, kidnappings, and ethnic clashes across the country. The government’s failure to contain these threats has left many Nigerians feeling unsafe in their own homes and communities. “Lawlessness and insecurity have become the norm in several regions, with little to no confidence in the ability of the state to protect its citizens,” Oligbo stated.
Healthcare is another critical area where the nation has faltered according to him. Oligbo pointed out that many Nigerians lack access to quality medical care, with poorly funded hospitals, inadequate medical supplies, and a shortage of healthcare professionals. This decline in healthcare services has led to avoidable deaths and a reliance on medical tourism for those who can afford it, further exposing the disparity between the rich and poor in the country.
Oligbo’s sharp critique of the current administration reflects widespread dissatisfaction with leadership at the national level. While acknowledging that President Tinubu’s administration inherited many of these challenges, he expressed concern over the lack of clear strategies to address the root causes of the crises. Oligbo emphasized that good governance, transparency, and accountability are essential for turning Nigeria’s fortunes around.
Despite his bleak assessment, Oligbo offered suggestions for remedying the country’s ills. He called for urgent reforms and a comprehensive approach to governance that prioritizes the needs of Nigerians:
Oligbo stressed the need for Nigeria to move away from its dependence on oil and focus on building a diversified economy. Investing in agriculture, manufacturing, and technology could create jobs, spur economic growth, and reduce reliance on volatile oil markets. He also called for more support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), which are crucial for economic development.
To address the infrastructure deficit, Oligbo proposed a bold plan to invest in public works programs aimed at upgrading roads, power generation, and transportation systems. He noted that improved infrastructure would encourage investment, improve living standards, and boost the overall productivity of the economy.
Oligbo advocated for comprehensive security reforms, including better training, equipment, and remuneration for security forces. He emphasized the importance of intelligence gathering and community policing as critical tools in fighting terrorism and crime across the country. “Nigeria must restore law and order, and that requires a reformed, well-funded security apparatus,” he said.
Oligbo called for increased funding for the healthcare sector, alongside partnerships with the private sector to improve hospital infrastructure, provide affordable drugs, and ensure the training and retention of medical professionals. He also suggested a focus on preventive healthcare and the expansion of health insurance coverage.
Ike Oligbo also stressed the importance of ethical leadership and governance reform. He advocated for strong institutions, electoral reforms to promote transparency, and measures to tackle corruption at all levels of government. “Nigeria needs leaders who are accountable to the people and are committed to the long-term prosperity of the nation,” he remarked.
He urged Nigerians to take responsibility for holding their leaders accountable and actively participate in shaping the future of the country. “We must rise as citizens to demand the change we deserve. Nigeria belongs to all of us, and we cannot afford to sit back and watch it fail,” he concluded.
