In recent years, there has been an alarming trend among some Nigerians: a tendency to harshly criticize and bring down the very country they belong to, along with its government programmes. What makes this more troubling is the fact that many of these critics secretly harbor a desire to be in government themselves. This begs the question—what will be left of Nigeria if we continue this path of self-destruction?
It is no secret that Nigeria, like any other country, faces challenges. From economic difficulties to governance issues, there is no denying that improvements are needed. However, the way some individuals choose to address these problems is often counterproductive. Rather than engaging in constructive dialogue, they resort to tearing down the image of the country and discrediting every government effort, regardless of merit.
This attitude of destruction, if left unchecked, poses a significant risk to the future of Nigeria. When we destroy our own institutions, our reputation, and our programmes, we undermine the very foundation of national development. It is easy to criticize from the outside, but it is much more difficult to take responsibility for building the future we want to see.
What I find particularly disheartening is that many of these critics are not motivated by a desire for genuine national progress. Their goal is to discredit those in power today, only to take their place tomorrow. But here’s the problem: if you destroy the structures and policies that keep the country running, what will be left for you when you finally get into office?
We must recognize that governance is not easy, and while government programmes may not always be perfect, they represent efforts to address the country’s problems. Constructive criticism is essential for growth, but there is a clear difference between criticism aimed at improvement and criticism aimed at tearing down. We must learn to offer solutions, not just complaints.
Government initiatives, whether in education, healthcare, infrastructure, or social welfare, play a crucial role in the development of our nation. These programmes are not merely abstract policies; they affect the daily lives of millions of Nigerians. By constantly disparaging these efforts, we are telling the world—and ourselves—that Nigeria is incapable of progress.
Consider, for example, the various youth empowerment programmes, social investment schemes, and infrastructure projects that have been implemented across the country. While there may be flaws in execution, these initiatives provide a foundation for future growth. Instead of destroying them, we should focus on improving them, ensuring they reach their full potential for the benefit of all.
It is time we stopped this cycle of destructive criticism and instead worked towards constructive dialogue. Yes, hold the government accountable. Yes, demand transparency. But do so in a way that builds up, not tears down. If we are to make Nigeria a better place, we must be willing to engage in the hard work of nation-building, not nation-destroying.
To those who aspire to be in government, I say this: before you take on the mantle of leadership, ask yourself what kind of Nigeria you want to lead. Do you want to inherit a country weakened by relentless criticism and cynicism? Or do you want to lead a Nigeria that is strong, united, and full of potential? If it is the latter, then your work begins now—not when you assume office, but in the way you engage with the country today.
At the end of the day, we must all ask ourselves: what will be left when we destroy our own country? If we continue to tear down the image of Nigeria, if we continue to dismiss every effort by the government, and if we continue to pursue personal ambitions at the expense of national unity, there will be nothing left for future generations.
Nigeria is our home. It is a country with immense potential, a country that, despite its challenges, has the capacity to rise to greatness. But that greatness will only come if we work together to build it. It is time to stop tearing down and start building up. Let us take pride in our country, support its development, and work towards a brighter, more prosperous future for all Nigerians.
Mr. Kabiru Adeniyi Adisa FCA
President General, Charitable Youth for Nation Building Initiative
Telephone: +2348034978700
WhatsApp: +2348057783260
