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I want to share my personal experience and thoughts on the ongoing protests against bad governance in Nigeria. This movement has struck a deep chord with many Nigerians.
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It is not just about noise-making; it is about demanding for the change we have always longed for.’
My Encounter with the Demonstrations
These events call for detailed description as I have followed them closely. The protests are a collective expression of discontent by citizens over government’s failure to address fundamental issues affecting the country.
There are countless grievances from economic problems to security challenges which are very painful.
Hope that maybe this time our voices will be heard.
Walking together with other Nigerians reminded me of our shared identity and destiny. All of us had one goal that couldn’t be more obvious – putting an end to bad governance in Nigeria.
What is the reason for the Nigerian protest?
These protests have different reasons. However, at its root lies deep unhappiness over present governance.
Here are some of the key drivers behind these protests:
Hard Economic Times:
Nigeria’s economy has been in a tailspin for years. The rate of unemployment is alarmingly high and many homes find it hard to make ends meet.
Inflation has gone through the roof making basic needs unaffordable to average Nigerians.
State of insecurity:
The security situation in Nigeria is terrible with Boko Haram insurgency in North-East and banditry and kidnappings in other parts of the country that have left Nigerian citizens living in constant fear of their lives. Government’s response has been inadequate thus making them feel abandoned.
Corruption:
There is corruption at every level within government circles; public funds meant for development are often embezzled by corrupt officials leaving infrastructure projects incomplete as well as critical services underfunded.
Infrastructure deficiencies:
Nigeria, despite being one of Africa’s largest economies, has no infrastructure to talk about; roads are in a terrible state, medical facilities are ill-equipped and there is acute shortage of clean water supply plus electricity.
My Thoughts on the Economic Situation
This economic situation in Nigeria is one of the most significant concerns. As a person who has studied the economics policies and their outcomes I can say with certainty that it has been very hard for people.
The price of living has increased dramatically and wages have not kept pace with inflation. A lot of young Nigerians, including those fresh graduates from school are unable to secure good jobs leading to despair and anger.
Families have had a tough time buying basic things such as food and medical care. Parents worry about how they will pay for their children’s education.
The middle class is shrinking, while more people are slipping into poverty. This economic recession is unsustainable and this is why there are people in the streets today.
The Insecurity Crisis
Insecurity is yet another major problem at hand here. I have listened to countless stories of people getting kidnapped for ransom even during the day time.
Boko Haram insurgencies have particularly hit hard in the North-East region, but violence threatens all over the country too. There is an alarming rise thefts by bandits and herdsmen, which government’s response was slow and ineffective.
I recall being told by a friend who survived narrowly from bandit attack while he was travelling of his terrifying experience.
This is intolerable for any citizen to live in fear continuously. The government should act decisively to restore security and protect them.
Corruption: It runs deep
Corruption has become a cancer that has eaten into Nigerian society. It is sad when public funds are stolen by those in power without consequences.
This corruption slows down development and undermines public confidence in government institutions.
I have read several reports where money meant for infrastructure development was pocketed by officers concerned. This leads not only to stunted growth but also leaves essential services insufficient.
Take for instance the health sector which suffers from inadequate funding, thereby resulting in poor service delivery leading to unnecessary deaths.
Lack of proper infrastructure and its effects
Nigeria’s infrastructure problem is everywhere you look. Poor roads, frequent electricity blackouts, and inadequate medical services just to name a few examples.
Besides compromising living standards these concerns also impede economic progress.
The frustration I have been through on bumpy roads full of potholes, power cuts at work or home that interfere with life on a daily basis as well as public hospitals which are deplorable is something else that we must face.
These are the issues that a number of Nigerians face on a daily basis and it is evident that immediate action has to be taken to deal with them.
Social Media in Protests
The present day protests have shown social media to be one of the most effective tools for organizing demonstrations.
The likes of Twitter, Facebook and Instagram have been very instrumental in bringing people together as well as informing others about what was going on.
For example, hashtags like #EndBadGovernance and #FixNigeria went viral, spotlighting Nigeria’s sufferings internationally.
I Know Social Media Can Unite People At First Hand
During the time of protests there were updates and sharing made available through social media at that particular moment which helped coordinate efforts.
Consequently, it was amazing how some tweets or posts could spur thousands into taking actions.
The Way Forward
Nevertheless, I am optimistic about Nigeria’s future despite its challenges. The ongoing protests represent a watershed moment when citizens awakened collectively saying “no” to the status quo anymore.
However,I still believe that sustained pressure will bring meaningful change.
A Nigeria where government is responsible to its people, economic opportunities are endless and every citizen feels safe and secure is my wish.
It will be long but I hope we can create more better Nigeria for ourselves and posterity.
Conclusion
These protests against bad governance in Nigeria are more than episodic events; they are the unified voice of a nation seeking change. While these issues are filled with economic difficulties, insecurity and corruption, they can be overcome.
Inspired by the resilience and tenacity of my fellow countrymen as I engage and follow through with these demonstrations, I am confident that we shall push for reforms that will lead to a fairer, equitable and prosperous Nigeria. We should not let this momentum fizzle out while still demanding good governance from our homeland.
