Politics in Nigeria has taken a drastic turn, transforming from a call to public service into a fiercely competitive struggle for power, influence, and patronage. This shift has led to devastating consequences, with citizens bearing the brunt of a system that prioritizes wealth and privilege over service. The purpose of government has begun to change, with politics becoming a business driven by personal gain rather than the needs of the people.
The World Bank's recent assessment of Nigeria highlights a stark contradiction: despite economic growth and domestic revenue mobilisation, the country continues to grapple with widespread poverty, high food inflation, and structural barriers to inclusive growth. The Bank stresses the need for more efficient public spending and stronger fiscal transparency, underscoring the need for reform. This paradox raises questions about the role of Nigeria's political class in perpetuating the country's underdevelopment.
According to the UNICEF Nigerian Child 2025 Report, two out of every three Nigerian children, approximately 67 percent, live in poverty. This statistic underscores the human cost of Nigeria's dysfunctional politics. As citizens struggle to access basic necessities like electricity, healthcare, quality education, security, clean water, and decent employment, the political class enjoys enormous public resources and privileges. This disconnect has contributed to Nigeria's persistent underdevelopment.
The consequences of Nigeria's politics-business nexus are far-reaching. With politics driven by personal gain, decision-making processes are often opaque and self-serving. This has led to inefficient allocation of resources, with public funds frequently being diverted for private benefit. The resulting lack of trust in government has eroded citizens' confidence in the system, exacerbating social and economic challenges.
Experts argue that Nigeria's political landscape requires a fundamental shift. By prioritizing public service over personal gain, politicians can begin to address the country's pressing challenges. This would involve increased transparency and accountability, as well as a commitment to efficient public spending. Only then can Nigeria's politics begin to serve the people, rather than the interests of a select few.
The National Assembly's recent transmission of the 2026 constitution amendment bill to states, with a 30-day target, offers a glimmer of hope for reform. Initiatives like this demonstrate a willingness to revisit and revise the country's governance framework, potentially creating a more equitable and just system. However, the effectiveness of such efforts remains to be seen, as Nigeria's complex web of interests and alliances often hinders meaningful change.
As Nigeria navigates its complex politics, the international community is watching closely. The US, UK, and other global players have taken an interest in Nigeria's stability, given its implications for regional security and economic development. With Nigeria's North-West stability crucial to West Africa and the Sahel, according to the UN, the stakes are high for meaningful reform. The country's future depends on its ability to redefine politics, prioritizing public service over personal gain.
Key points
- Politics in Nigeria has become a business driven by personal gain, prioritizing power and wealth over public service.
- The country's underdevelopment is perpetuated by a disconnect between the political class and citizens, with the latter struggling to access basic necessities.
- Experts argue that a fundamental shift in Nigeria's politics is required, prioritizing transparency, accountability, and efficient public spending.
