DEAR SIR: A critical issue confronting Nigeria today arises from the shortsighted perspective held by many of its leaders, particularly their disregard for the long-term repercussions of their decisions. Numerous officials remain obsessed with accumulating wealth through corrupt practices, overlooking the fleeting nature of life and the legacy they leave behind.
This detrimental attitude has fueled rampant misappropriation of funds earmarked for national progress. As a result, billions of dollars belonging to Nigeria are illicitly siphoned off and hidden in overseas accounts by dishonest public servants, only to be lost within the global financial system after their untimely deaths.
Consider the case of a former Bayelsa State governor who allegedly transferred millions abroad. He narrowly escaped legal consequences by disguising himself and returning to Nigeria. The pressing question is whether these stolen funds have been retrieved to aid his state or if they remain untouched in foreign banks. His situation is just one example among countless instances of Nigerian wealth concealed beyond the country’s borders.
Had these diverted resources been invested wisely, they could have fast-tracked the development of critical infrastructure and fostered industries capable of creating meaningful employment for Nigeria’s vast population of jobless youth-many of whom are forced to seek precarious opportunities overseas.
Despite frequent visits to advanced countries where they observe effective governance and robust public services, Nigerian leaders consistently overlook vital sectors like education and healthcare. Their failure to prioritize funding leaves schools and hospitals in disrepair, while public funds are squandered on lavish and unnecessary ventures.
For example, while security agencies such as the military and police struggle with inadequate equipment amid escalating insecurity, the government channels disproportionate resources into refurbishing buildings that require minimal upkeep. Likewise, as doctors and teachers protest over unmet demands, the administration focuses on expanding its fleet of presidential jets and financing expensive elections or censuses that span only a few weeks.
These extravagant expenditures often surpass the combined budgets allocated to education and health over an entire decade, underscoring a severe mismanagement of public funds. Nigerian leaders fail to grasp that the wealth they hoard will not serve them indefinitely; it will eventually pass on to others. Investing these resources in the nation’s advancement would yield enduring benefits for all citizens.
Many amass great fortunes during their lifetimes, yet their legacies and assets fade into oblivion after death. If Nigerian leaders recognized that genuine dedication to public service is the most lasting heritage, the widespread corruption and diversion of national wealth would come to an end.
Jide Oyewusi, Coordinator, Ethics Watch International Nigeria