By Damilola Adeleke
In 1973, India faced a severe famine triggered by a prolonged drought that threatened its population of 580 million. Then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, confronted with widespread hunger, declared with resolve, “We have no intention of failing. We are going to succeed. We shall overcome.” This determination birthed policies that laid the foundation for India’s self-sufficiency in food production—a legacy successive governments have built upon, ensuring that India never begged for bread again.
Contrast this with Nigeria, where 132 million people are now multi-dimensionally poor, food inflation has soared to 43%, general inflation to 34%, and bank interest rates hover at 28%. Hunger is rampant, yet our response has been a growing dependence on palliatives—short-term handouts meant to alleviate suffering but incapable of addressing the root causes of poverty and inequality.
The Palliative Trap
Following the withdrawal of the fuel subsidy and the merger of black-market and official exchange rates, poverty deepened, and hunger spread like wildfire. The reaction? Governments at all levels resorted to distributing palliatives, a band-aid solution that has become the default approach to crisis management. Politicians, churches, mosques, NGOs, and philanthropists joined the frenzy, doling out ₦5,000 here and there as if these token gestures could heal the economic wounds of a proud people now reduced to dependence.
Palliatives, however, only perpetuate a cycle of poverty. They reinforce social and economic inequalities, leaving recipients more marginalized and vulnerable. While these measures may provide momentary relief, they cannot offer sustainable solutions to Nigeria’s deeply rooted problems.
Learning from Success Stories
The adage “Don’t give me fish; teach me how to fish” rings true now more than ever. Examples abound of initiatives that empower people rather than foster dependency. The Tony Elumelu Foundation and Fate Foundation have successfully created entrepreneurs across Africa. In Imo State, an Anglican Diocese has developed job creation and food production programs. Former UNILAG Vice-Chancellor Professor Tolu Odugbemi has helped churches and NGOs turn into food producers. These models prove that with vision and determination, sustainable development is achievable.
Instead of ₦5,000 handouts, resources should be aggregated to fund programs that create entrepreneurs and small businesses capable of driving economic growth. Palliatives are not only unsustainable but also demeaning. They promote a culture of parasitism, leaving the nation unable to harness the full potential of its citizens.
A Call to Action for PBAT
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT) must revisit the promises of his May 29, 2023, inaugural speech. He pledged a “well-being economy” focused on social justice, economic sustainability, and accessible food and electricity. These promises included agricultural hubs, affordable energy, and restructuring the budget to avoid inflation—all measures aimed at creating a productive, self-reliant economy.
However, the current reliance on palliatives undermines these goals. Nigeria needs policies that create millions of SMEs employing 5–10 people, contributing significantly to GDP. PBAT must disembark from the palliative train and board one that builds a productive, self-sustaining economy.
Tackling the Root Cause
It is not enough to address the symptoms of Nigeria’s economic challenges. The root cause lies in the nation’s centralized and unified federal structure, which stifles innovation and productivity. True federalism, decentralization, and localized governance hold the key to unlocking Nigeria’s potential.
PBAT has shown determination in pursuing reforms like tax restructuring and local government autonomy. With the same zeal, he can lead Nigeria toward self-reliance, fulfilling his promises and creating a legacy akin to Indira Gandhi’s.
https://newscoven.com/this-palliative-based-economy-must-stop/
The question is, will Nigeria choose the path of short-term fixes, or will it commit to building a nation that thrives on the productivity and ingenuity of its people? The choice is ours to make.
Adeleke Damilola (ACTION) is a versatile content writer with expertise in news writing and a seasoned media professional and broadcast specialist. Currently serving as News Editor for DNews Info, Damilola is also the CEO of the ACTION brand, committed to shaping lives and establishing a legacy of excellence for present and future generations.
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