Nigeria @65: ‘We move two steps forward, ten backwards’ —Citizen Laments Leadership Crisis

By: Goodluck E. Adubazi, Abuja.

As Nigeria marked its 65th Independence anniversary, citizens across the nation are reflecting on the country’s journey so far. In a special vox pop by Standard Times Nigeria, Fiade Olugbenga, a concerned Nigerian, shared his candid views about the state of the nation, highlighting deep-rooted issues plaguing Nigeria’s progress.

When asked if he would choose to be Nigerian again, given another shot at life, Olugbenga responded without hesitation: “I’m proud to be a Nigerian.” However, his pride is tempered by a deep frustration with Nigeria’s leadership and a chronic lack of trust between leaders and the people.

“Nigeria is evolving, but we’re still not where we ought to be,” he said. “Every four years, a new government comes in, and the story remains the same.”

According to Olugbenga, the nation often experiences brief moments of progress, only to be dragged backward.

“At times we move two steps forward and ten steps backward.”

He recalled that even from childhood, rising food prices and economic hardship were constant issues—and decades later, little has changed.

“Our leaders often come with promises to fix things but end up creating five new problems while trying to solve one,” he lamented.

Olugbenga expressed deep skepticism about the ability of human government to truly fix Nigeria’s challenges, suggesting that many leaders come simply to “take their share and go,” leaving the people behind with recycled problems.

“The real issue is a deficit of trust between the leaders and the led,” he noted. “That’s one of our biggest problems today.”

Despite his concerns, Olugbenga’s love for Nigeria remains strong.

“I’ve had the privilege of traveling outside the country, and I can tell you—there’s no place like home,” he said.

He praised Nigeria’s cultural diversity, climate, and natural resources, especially the abundance of sunshine—something many other countries lack. He also pointed to the friendliness of Nigerians as a unique national trait.

We’re hospitable, vibrant, and full of life. Our ‘Nigerianness’ makes us special,” he added.

While he acknowledged that no country is without problems, he believes Nigeria’s challenges are worsened by poor leadership and broken trust.

As the country looks toward the future, Olugbenga remains hopeful—if not in politicians, then in a higher power:

“With God, all things are possible.”