By
Ola Olateju
As Nigeria inches closer to the 2027 general elections, the stakes could not be higher. Our economy is in dire straits, youth unemployment is at an all-time high, and the political elite continues to act with impunity, shielded by a system that rewards self-interest over national progress. The time has come for Nigerians to rise with one voice and reclaim the future. Our economy and our democratic rights are inextricably linked; to secure our livelihoods, we must secure our votes.
The State of the Nation: A Call to Action
The Nigerian economy, once the giant of Africa, is now a case study in mismanagement. Inflation hovers above 28% (NBS, 2024), eroding purchasing power and plunging millions into poverty. The naira continues to depreciate against major currencies, making basic goods unaffordable for the average citizen. Meanwhile, corruption remains endemic, draining resources meant for infrastructural development and economic empowerment (Transparency International, 2024). How much longer will we tolerate a system that impoverishes us while enriching a select few?
The Economy and Political Accountability
There is an undeniable connection between economic stagnation and poor governance. The World Bank (2023) identified weak institutions and policy inconsistency as the major barriers to Nigeria’s economic recovery. Yet, these barriers persist because we have failed to demand accountability from those we elect. The 2023 elections showed glimpses of voter awareness, but they were also marred by apathy and electoral malpractices (INEC, 2023). We cannot afford a repeat in 2027.
“A nation that elects those who loot its treasury should not complain about poverty.” – (Thomas Sankara). This quote rings especially true in Nigeria, where recycled political figures, many with questionable track records, continue to dictate our fate. Unless we take deliberate steps to elect competent leaders, economic hardship will persist.
The Power of the Vote: A Civic Duty
The right to vote is more than a constitutional provision; it is a tool for economic liberation. In 2027, the electorate must move beyond ethnic and religious sentiments and focus on candidates with credible economic blueprints. Nations that transformed their economies—Singapore, Malaysia, and Rwanda—did so through visionary leadership. We need leaders who prioritize industrialization, job creation, and wealth redistribution over personal enrichment.
The Youth: The Tipping Point
With over 60% of Nigeria’s population under 35 (NBS, 2024), the youth hold the key to change. Unfortunately, many young Nigerians have disengaged from politics, disillusioned by years of failed promises. This apathy must end. As Frantz Fanon aptly put it, “Each generation must, out of relative obscurity, discover its mission, fulfill it, or betray it.” The mission before Nigerian youths is clear: reclaim the political space and demand a government that works for them.
Towards 2027: A Strategy for National Renewal
To chart a new course, we must:
1. Mobilize for Voter Registration: Millions of Nigerians remain unregistered. Civil society organizations, student unions, and professional bodies must drive nationwide voter registration campaigns.
2. Demand Electoral Reforms: The 2023 elections exposed loopholes in our electoral process. Pressure must be mounted on INEC and lawmakers to ensure electronic transmission of results, a strengthened judiciary, and severe penalties for electoral offenders.
3. Engage in Policy Debates: Citizens must scrutinize candidates based on their economic plans. What are their strategies for industrialization? How will they tackle inflation and unemployment? Empty promises must no longer suffice.
4. Hold Leaders Accountable: The work does not end after the elections. Citizens must demand transparency, participate in town hall meetings, and leverage social media to track government actions.
Conclusion: The Future is Now
History will judge this generation of Nigerians by its willingness to act. If we fail to seize this moment, the cycle of economic decline, unemployment, and bad governance will persist. But if we rise, organize, and vote wisely, we can build a nation that guarantees prosperity for all.
Our future is at stake. Our economy is on the line. Our right to decide must not be surrendered.
The time is now!
OLA OLATEJU WRITES FROM ACHIEVERS UNIVERSITY, OWO, ONDO STATE
This is an eye-opening write-up needed if we want a change in Nigeria. You have done really well in analyzing and giving possible solutions. Thank you ????????