In a recent announcement, the federal government, led by the Minister for Youth Development, Dr. Jamila Bio-Ibrahim, unveiled a scheme to deploy 2,000 compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered tricycles as part of a purported effort to create jobs for Nigerian youth. While the government proudly asserts that this initiative will ease transportation challenges and provide employment opportunities, a closer examination reveals a troubling reality: this move may do more to stifle ambition than to uplift the next generation.
The government’s rationale for this initiative hinges on the notion of job creation. However, one must ask: is handing a tricycle to a university graduate truly a step forward? Are we satisfied with reducing bright, educated youth to the role of tricycle riders? The ambition of our youth is being undermined, and their potential squandered, as they are pushed into low-paying, menial jobs that fail to leverage their skills and education.
Imagine the message being sent to graduates: instead of cultivating their ideas and entrepreneurial spirits, they should settle for a tricycle seat. This is not merely a matter of transportation; it’s about dignity, opportunity, and the right to aspire for more. The government seems oblivious to the fact that many of these youths possess innovative ideas that could contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economy. Instead of providing them with seed capital to foster their entrepreneurial endeavors, they are relegated to the streets.
As someone who knows of initiatives where a youth can invest ₦2,000,000 to ₦3,000,000 and potentially grow that investment into a venture employing at least 100 people within two years, I can’t help but envision the potential impact of redirecting these funds toward fostering entrepreneurship rather than simply providing tricycles. If the 2,000 youths empowered with these tricycles were instead guided to become CEOs, imagine the ripple effect: in just two years, they could each employ a minimum of 20 additional youths, significantly reducing the unemployment rate in our communities.
Dr. Bio-Ibrahim’s optimism about the initiative overlooks a crucial aspect: many of these youths may feel compelled to accept any opportunity presented to them due to dire economic circumstances. This dependency on menial jobs can lead to a cycle of hopelessness. A brilliant mind forced to ride a tricycle for survival is at risk of being drawn into a world of criminality and abuse, compromising their integrity and potential. The same youth who once dreamed of being an entrepreneur or a leader may find themselves entangled in political thuggery during election periods, driven by the lure of quick cash.
By limiting their options, we are effectively robbing them of their future. The government must ask itself: would you want your children to work as illiterates on the streets of Nigeria? The answer is a resounding no. Yet, that is precisely what is happening to many talented youths across the country.
Aside from graduates, we must also consider the fate of uneducated youths in this initiative. Are we content to let them remain out of school, effectively endorsing the idea of an illiterate generation? This initiative does little to address the underlying educational deficiencies plaguing our society. Instead of funneling resources into sustainable development programs that promote education and skill acquisition, the government is merely perpetuating the cycle of dependency and disillusionment.
As Dr. Tofunmi Ogunronbi, I have observed a significant disconnect between my generation and those that came before us. The generation prior to mine has failed us in many ways. When approached with new ideas, they often respond with criticism rather than support, perpetuating a culture of servitude rather than empowerment. This attitude is detrimental to the future of our youth. We must recognize that someone once helped each of us, regardless of our imperfections, and extend that same support to the next generation. It is imperative that we change our mindset and foster an environment of collaboration and encouragement.
Nigeria is blessed with resources and potential, yet the political landscape is often marred by self-serving associates who prioritize their interests over the nation’s youth. This negligence does a disservice not only to the individuals involved but to society as a whole. We must ask ourselves: what is the hope of our coming generation? Consider the case of Aliko Dangote, who was able to succeed because of support from his uncle to start a business venture. This is a prime example of how investment in potential can yield extraordinary results. We need to identify and nurture more talented individuals like Dangote who are currently wandering aimlessly on the streets, waiting for a chance to realize their dreams.
Instead of promoting initiatives that may provide short-term fixes for transportation issues, we must advocate for sustainable development projects that address the root causes of unemployment and underemployment. The government should prioritize investments that nurture creativity and innovation, enabling our youth to contribute positively to society.
In conclusion, while the assembly of CNG-powered tricycles may be a commendable step toward renewable energy, we must not confuse this with genuine empowerment. We should be ambitious in our support for youth initiatives and refrain from settling for temporary solutions that risk damaging their aspirations. It is time for the government to recalibrate its approach and invest in the future leaders of Nigeria, ensuring that we are not merely providing jobs but fostering an environment where dreams can flourish and our youth can thrive. Let’s champion sustainable development and create opportunities that genuinely enhance the quality of life for all Nigerians.
By Dr. Tofunmi Ogunronbi
