Nigeria’s Economic Struggle: A Call for Urgent Action -By Dirpimwa Elizabeth Woktong

Nigeria’s economic reality today is a steep and slippery slope, with millions of citizens barely hanging on. Over 20 million Nigerians are unemployed, and poverty continues to tighten its grip. The situation has reached a critical point, and for many, survival is now a daily battle.

Take Ade, a 28-year-old graduate with a degree in Computer Science. For three years, he’s been actively searching for a job. Despite his qualifications, countless applications, and numerous interviews, he remains unemployed. His once-supportive parents are now financially strained themselves, unable to offer more than emotional support.

Ade’s story isn’t unique. It represents the struggles of millions of young Nigerians who, after years of academic sacrifice, are met with closed doors and a failing system. These are people filled with potential, but trapped by a harsh economic reality.
The economic crisis in Nigeria is not just about the lack of jobs. It’s about widespread hardship. It’s about waking up with no clue where your next meal will come from, how you’ll pay rent, or whether the electricity bill can wait another week. It’s a life of uncertainty.

Businesses are shutting down due to rising inflation, poor infrastructure, and insecurity. Even those who are employed are battling with poor wages that can barely keep up with the cost of living. For the average Nigerian, working hard is no longer enough to guarantee a decent life.

Our youth, who should be the drivers of economic growth, are stuck in a cycle of frustration. This widespread unemployment fuels crime, brain drain, and social unrest. The country is losing some of its brightest minds to foreign nations offering better opportunities.

But Nigerians are resilient people. This spirit of resilience must now be matched with creativity and action. Innovation and entrepreneurship are on the rise, with many young people turning to small businesses and digital platforms to survive and thrive.
Despite this, many of these ventures struggle due to lack of access to funding, poor government support, and limited infrastructure. Without strategic policies and investment, even the most innovative ideas won’t survive long enough to make an impact.

This is where government responsibility comes in. Policymakers must prioritize job creation through investments in agriculture, tech, and manufacturing. Infrastructure must be improved, and power must be stable for businesses to flourish.

Education also plays a vital role. Universities and vocational institutions must align their training with the realities of the job market. Graduates should not only be employable they should be equipped to become job creators themselves.

Social welfare programs must also be strengthened to support the most vulnerable in society. It is unacceptable for millions to go hungry in a country with such abundant resources and potential.

Media, civil society, and community leaders must continue to speak out, hold the government accountable, and drive civic engagement. Silence and apathy will only prolong the crisis
The private sector also has a role to play. By partnering with government and civil society, it can help bridge gaps in job creation, skills development, and mentorship.
Nigeria’s future is at stake. We cannot continue on this path. The time for action is now. Everyone from government officials to local leaders, business owners to young entrepreneurs has a role to play.

If we work together, we can rewrite the story. Ade’s story doesn’t have to end in struggle. It can become a tale of triumph one that reflects the true spirit of Nigeria. Let’s build a country where opportunity is no longer a dream, but a reality for all.