Are Nigerian Youths Still the Leaders of Tomorrow?

“In recent times, a troubling trend has emerged among many young Nigerians. Many have seemingly lost their sense of direction and purpose. This shift can largely be attributed to the powerful allure of materialism, which has become increasingly prevalent in contemporary society. This preoccupation with wealth and material possessions is not just a fleeting obsession; it has developed into a pervasive mindset that often eclipses long-standing cultural values and meaningful aspirations. Young Nigerians, motivated by an intense desire for luxury and social status, frequently prioritize immediate gratification at the expense of setting and pursuing long-term goals.”

Reflecting on my childhood spent in primary school in Benue, I have vivid memories of the morning assemblies we held before classes commenced each day. These gatherings were a cornerstone of our school routine, fostering community and shared purpose among students. Each assembly began with palpable excitement as we eagerly awaited the familiar rituals that marked the start of our day. During these assemblies, we often recited a powerful song that resonated deeply with us, emphasizing the belief that today’s youth are the leaders of tomorrow—a sentiment that many can surely relate to as a cherished part of their childhood experiences. The song’s lyrics struck a chord, urging our parents to recognize our potential: “Parents, listen to your children; we are the leaders of tomorrow; please pay our school fees and provide us with a sound education.” These lines encapsulated the essence of our aspirations and the urgency of our plea for quality education. They highlighted the crucial role that a solid educational foundation plays in shaping the leaders we aspire to become, not just in the future but also in the present. The song served as a reminder to our parents and ourselves that investing in education is investing in a brighter future. It was a theme that echoed in our hearts and minds, reinforcing the belief that we could make a meaningful impact in the world with proper support and guidance.

The common assertion that youths are the “leaders of tomorrow” does not stem from its appeal to the very generation it aims to uplift, nor is it simply a reflection of a truism based on the natural law of succession, which dictates that older generations make way for the new. Instead, its widespread acceptance hinges mainly on its evolution into a motto that encapsulates the frustrations of young people towards an elite clique that seems to hold an unassailable belief in their divine right to leadership, remaining unaffected by changing times and standards. What exactly defines the concept of youth? What characteristics or attributes are we referring to when we talk about youth? The United Nations provides a framework for understanding this demographic by designating individuals aged 15 to 24 as youth. However, this definition is incomplete, as various member states may have their own interpretations based on cultural, social, and economic factors. Moreover, the United Nations emphasizes that youth should be viewed not merely as a fixed age group but as a transitional phase in human development. This phase marks the shift from the dependence often experienced in childhood to the increasing independence and responsibilities associated with adulthood. It encompasses a critical period in which individuals establish their identities, make significant life choices, and engage more actively with their communities. This perspective highlights the fluidity of the concept of youth. It acknowledges that youth experiences can vary widely across different contexts and cultures and the importance of fostering a sense of interconnectedness among individuals within their communities. 

In recent times, a troubling trend has emerged among many young Nigerians. Many have seemingly lost their sense of direction and purpose. This shift can largely be attributed to the powerful allure of materialism, which has become increasingly prevalent in contemporary society. This preoccupation with wealth and material possessions is not just a fleeting obsession; it has developed into a pervasive mindset that often eclipses long-standing cultural values and meaningful aspirations. Young Nigerians, motivated by an intense desire for luxury and social status, frequently prioritize immediate gratification at the expense of setting and pursuing long-term goals. As a result, it has manifested in various ways, such as neglecting education or community involvement in favor of quick financial gains or superficial distractions. Consequently, many have turned away from avenues that foster personal growth, community engagement, and nurturing authentic relationships. They focus on individual success leading to a troubling disconnect from cultural heritage. They have become increasingly isolated from the traditions and communal practices that once grounded their identities. This disconnection not only diminishes their sense of purpose but also hampers their ability to cultivate resilience and a strong sense of community, which are essential for personal fulfillment and societal progress.

When VeryDarkMan (VDM) brought to light the troubling corruption saga involving Bobrisky, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Correctional Service, and the influential Falanas, I had anticipated a dynamic youth movement emerging to rally in support of VDM. I envisioned young Nigerians uniting to vigorously challenge these individuals and institutions that hinder our nation’s progress. However, I was profoundly disheartened to observe a contrasting response: many young Nigerians chose to lend their support to Bobrisky, the EFCC, the Correctional Service, and the Falanas instead. In an alarming twist, some individuals even went so far as to encourage the Falanas to consider legal action against VDM for defamation. They aimed to silence him for his criticisms of a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN)—a figure who has spent years cultivating a stellar reputation and a legacy in the legal field. This defense of Bobrisky and the Falanas raised eyebrows, mainly when some critics asserted that Bobrisky was not the root cause of the nation’s ongoing struggles. They claimed that the real issue lay with the government officials and systemic dysfunction, suggesting that VDM should redirect his focus to addressing these higher-level concerns instead of targeting Bobrisky and the Falanas directly. This situation leads to a troubling question: how have we arrived at a point where even educated Nigerian youths seem unable to grasp the gravity of corruption, especially when it directly implicates figures they admire? It reflects a more significant cultural challenge that diminishes the urgency of addressing systemic corruption, encouraging a troubling complacency among the very individuals who will shape the future of our nation.

A week ago, another troubling incident emerged involving music star Portable and an unidentified individual who became a victim of his aggression. In a circulated video from VDM, Portable is seen physically assaulting the unknown individual in a fit of rage, leading to the unfortunate hospitalization of the victim. To date, Portable has not issued an apology or taken responsibility for covering the medical costs associated with the attack. Instead, he responded defiantly, releasing another video that boasts about his intentions to confront VDM if they ever cross paths again, indicating a lack of remorse for his actions. This response has drawn mixed reactions, particularly from some segments of Nigerian youth who have urged VDM to back off and focus on issues affecting the nation. Other individuals have called for VDM to take a firm stance against Portable, urging that he face severe consequences for his actions. The expectation is that such a response would serve as a valuable lesson, instilling in Portable discipline and encouraging him to change his behavior. This situation raises important questions about the attitudes and values of the younger generation in Nigeria. As we look toward the future, many hope for leaders who exemplify integrity and responsibility—qualities that seem increasingly absent in today’s Nigerian youth. The ongoing dialogue surrounding this incident certainly reflects broader societal concerns about accountability and the influence of public figures on impressionable youth.

On October 27, a viral video captured an altercation between Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, a member of the House of Representatives for the Aba North & South Federal Constituency, and a Bolt driver named Stephen Abuwatseya. The incident occurred in Abuja after Ikwechegh ordered snails through the e-hailing app. A dispute arose when Abuwatseya arrived and requested payment, prompting Ikwechegh to voice his frustration, declaring that he could make the driver “disappear” and demanding that Abuwatseya meet him to collect the snails. Following a heated phone conversation with the snail vendor, Ikwechegh confronted Abuwatseya, expressing his anger and issuing threats. He slapped the driver twice in an unexpected turn, yet Abuwatseya remained calm. Upon learning that the incident was being recorded, Ikwechegh asserted his identity and authority, calling for the intervention of the Inspector General of Police. This incident underscores the delicate balance between power and respect within society and the potential ramifications when the younger generation steps into leadership roles. They may be inclined to replicate the behaviors of current leaders rather than advocate for a more respectful approach. This situation raises significant questions about values and accountability, urging reflection on how to inspire the next generation to cultivate a culture of integrity and respect.

In Nigeria today, the widely accepted idea that youth are the leaders of tomorrow appears increasingly hollow and disconnected from reality. While exceptions exist, I have been genuinely impressed by only a few individuals who embody this generation’s potential. One standout is VDM, a remarkable youth whose efforts have made a tangible impact in various sectors. His dedication to social change and community development showcases what can be achieved when young people actively transform their society. However, beyond VDM, I struggle to identify many others who have wholeheartedly committed themselves to the betterment of our nation. This observation underscores significant concerns regarding the attitudes of Nigerian youth toward their country. Many of these young individuals seem disillusioned, displaying a pervasive apathy marked by an “I don’t care” mentality. This stagnation not only impacts their engagement with current societal issues but also raises more profound questions about their aspirations and hopes for the future. As I reflect on this situation, I find myself contemplating the opportunities that may or may not be available to their generation. It prompts me to ask how such attitudes influence their contributions to society and the nation. Are they resigned to their circumstances, or is there still a spark of hope that could inspire a change in perspective? The future appears uncertain, and I am concerned about what it holds for these young individuals and their roles in the country’s development. There is a pressing need for a significant transformation in the mindset of Nigeria’s youth. This shift must encourage young individuals to actively embrace their responsibilities in shaping the nation’s future. By acknowledging their potential as catalysts for change, the youth can play a crucial role in tackling the country’s diverse challenges related to governance, social issues, or economic development. This necessitates a collective awakening, where they recognize that their actions and decisions today will profoundly influence Nigeria’s trajectory in the future.

When Nigeria achieved independence from British colonial rule in 1960, the joy and pride radiating from the faces of its citizens were immeasurable. Celebrations erupted across the nation, infused with a sense of hope and expectations for a prosperous future. Nigerians envisioned a country where they could chart their own course, free from the constraints of colonial governance. However, over six decades later, Nigeria’s situation tells a different story—a narrative overshadowed by persistent challenges and unfulfilled promises. Today, as we navigate this complex landscape, we find ourselves at a crossroads with two distinct paths. On one side lies the grim reality of our circumstances: rampant corruption undermining institutions, pervasive insecurity threatening lives and property, widespread poverty affecting millions, and a persistent sense of injustice that leaves many feeling marginalized and unheard. These issues have eroded trust in leadership and paralyzed progress, stifling the aspirations of a vibrant population. On the other hand, there is an urgent need for a transformative youth that envisions a revitalized Nigeria—one in which the youth serve as the backbone of the country’s national development. This revitalization is crucial for channeling the collective energies of the youth toward constructing a better society where every citizen has the opportunity to thrive. Therefore, the onus of this transformation rests heavily on the shoulders of Nigeria’s youth, a demographic brimming with potential, creativity, and the desire for change. These young Nigerians possess the energy and passion to drive the country forward. However, the current state of affairs reveals a stark contrast: many of Nigeria’s youth seem more inclined to seek instant fame and celebrity status rather than engaging in the hard work necessary for genuine societal change. This fixation on overnight success, often manifesting through social media platforms, detracts from the critical engagement needed to address our nation’s pressing issues. Thus, while the yearning for a revitalized Nigeria exists, it requires a collective shift in mindset among its youth—an awakening to the importance of active participation in nation-building, community development, and the pursuit of lasting change. Only then can we hope to steer Nigeria onto a path of renewal and progress?

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The #EndSARS protests that emerged in October 2020 were a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s ongoing struggle against police brutality, harassment, and extortion. Spearheaded predominantly by the nation’s youth, this movement sought to draw attention to the pervasive issues within law enforcement, particularly the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), which had been repeatedly accused of human rights abuses. As the protests gained momentum, they quickly spread across social media platforms, particularly Twitter, where an astounding 28 million posts were shared to amplify the message. Activists, celebrities, and global figures rallied in solidarity, using their platforms to advocate for change in Nigeria. This unprecedented wave of awareness not only highlighted the courage of the youth but also underscored a collective desire for reform in a system deeply marred by corruption and violence. In response to this widespread civil unrest, the Nigerian government and individuals suspected of wielding influence allegedly resorted to discrediting the movement. Reports emerged of youth and thugs being employed to create discord and undermine the peaceful protests. Alarmingly, authorities even engaged young lawyers to initiate legal actions against well-known personalities who supported the #EndSARS cause, attempting to stifle dissent and discourage solidarity among the youth. These actions lead to a pressing and unsettling inquiry: what compels some members of this generation to align themselves with tactics that threaten the integrity of a protest aimed at addressing injustices that directly affect them? This situation poses critical questions about the future leadership potential of today’s youth. Can they indeed be the leaders of tomorrow if such counterproductive actions sway them? The juxtaposition of their fervent activism against these troubling behaviors forces a deep examination of values, priorities, and the essence of youth engagement in societal transformation.

Nelson Mandela once powerfully stated, “The youths of today are the leaders of tomorrow,” highlighting the vital role that young people play in shaping society’s future. While this sentiment resonates broadly, the reality for many young individuals in Nigeria starkly contrasts with Mandela’s idealistic vision. This raises an important question: Are Nigerian youth truly the leaders of tomorrow? Although the phrase remains aspirational, the current behaviors of Nigerian youth prompt me to consider whether they are genuinely prepared to assume this leadership role. To unlock their potential and realize Mandela’s vision, today’s Nigerian youth must adopt a proactive mindset. This involves embracing entrepreneurship, engaging in community development, and cultivating critical thinking skills. By shifting their perspectives and understanding the significance of collective action, these young leaders can effectively tackle the pressing challenges they face, working toward a brighter future that transforms their lives and enhances the fabric of Nigerian society. Engaging in collective actions is a crucial element for aspiring leaders. By recognizing the power of unity and collaboration, Nigerian youth can amplify their voices and ensure that their needs and aspirations are addressed. This spirit of cooperation enhances their capabilities and strengthens the fabric of Nigerian society as a whole. Therefore, if today’s Nigerian youth can shift their perspectives, embrace their potential, and commit to action, they can pave the way for a future to transform their lives and contribute to Nigeria’s progress. Through such dedication and an unwavering belief in their agency, they can rise to become tomorrow’s leaders, which aligns with Mandela’s inspiring vision.

Rev. Ma, S.J., is a Jesuit Catholic priest of the North West Africa Province of the Society of Jesus. He writes from Abuja, FCT.