As we commemorate the International Day of Social Justice, the Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) calls upon governments at all levels to earnestly commit to the principles of social justice.
This commitment is particularly crucial in addressing the persistent inequality gap that has long characterized Nigeria’s political landscape.
CHRICED underscores that any authentic effort to mitigate this inequality must be reflected in the government’s political will to allocate adequate resources to essential sectors of society, ensuring that the benefits are shared collectively among all citizens.
In Nigeria, the aspiration for a society where every individual has equal access to the nation’s resources is not merely a lofty ideal but a fundamental necessity.
Achieving this vision requires a concerted effort to ensure that resources are distributed transparently and equitably across critical sectors such as Health, Education, Agriculture, Housing, and Infrastructure.
These sectors are the backbone of societal development and must be prioritized to foster an environment where all citizens can thrive.
Moreover, the needs of the most disadvantaged populations must be placed at the forefront of government policy decisions. When prioritizing programs and resource allocation, the government must consider the unique challenges faced by marginalized communities, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs addressed. This approach not only promotes social equity but also strengthens the social fabric of the nation.
It is disheartening to note that a staggering portion of the Nigerian population, over 133 million individuals, currently lives in multi-dimensional poverty.
This alarming statistic highlights the urgent need for systemic change, as these individuals have been marginalized and systematically denied access to essential government social services.
The government must take decisive action to rectify this situation, implementing policies that are inclusive and responsive to the needs of all citizens, particularly those who are most vulnerable.
It is concerning that, within the health sector, despite the implementation of mandatory health insurance as outlined in Section 14 of the National Health Insurance Authority 2022, fewer than 20 percent of the population has access to such insurance.
Consequently, 80 percent of citizens are compelled to pay for healthcare out-of-pocket. This scenario fosters the exclusion of the most impoverished citizens from receiving equitable healthcare, potentially infringing upon their right to health. A similar predicament exists in the housing sector.
CHRICED expresses alarm that, despite Nigeria facing a housing deficit of 28 million units, political leaders are collaborating with private investors to construct large mansions in largely unoccupied estates, which are priced beyond the means of the general populace.
This unpatriotic behavior has resulted in widespread homelessness, with housing costs now exceeding the financial capacities of even the middle class.
Furthermore, CHRICED observes that since the removal of the fuel subsidy and the floatation of the naira, the federal government has not adequately addressed the critical issue of food security in Nigeria.
Food inflation has surged to 40 percent, intensifying hunger levels across the nation and pushing many Nigerians into despair.
Farmers are increasingly unable to access their lands due to insecurity, while small-scale farmers struggle with others of access to modern farming equipment. Meanwhile, the budget for entertainment and other government ministries continues to run into billions of Naira.
In the realm of education, it is concerning that while various countries around the globe are making strategic advancements towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4, which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all, Nigeria has yet to see any significant actions from its government to address the plight of the 18.3 million out-of-school children.
This lack of initiative represents a failure to uphold the right to education for Nigerian children. If measures are not taken to integrate these children into the formal education system, they will pose a significant threat to the nation’s future.
CHRICED expresses disapproval of the nepotistic appointments that have characterized the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Federal Character principle was established to promote balance in political appointments; however, it is disheartening to observe that the federal government has undermined these principles through its political appointments.
This is evident in the disproportionate allocation of key positions to individuals from the same ethnic group and tribes as the President, particularly in critical sectors of the economy such as the Central Bank of Nigeria, the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Customs, Immigration, military, and the finance sector, as well as the appointment of the president as Minister of Petroleum.
In light of this context, CHRICED takes this opportunity on the International Day of Social Justice to urge both the Federal and subnational governments to exhibit a commitment to the inclusive and equitable distribution of national wealth by adopting the following recommendations:
The Federal and state governments must affirm their commitment to achieving universal coverage for all Nigerians. This can be accomplished by ensuring that the most vulnerable populations have access to equitable and affordable healthcare through health insurance, as stipulated by the NHIAA.
To realize this goal, the government should enforce Section 14 of the NHIAA and aim to increase health insurance enrollment by 70 percent by the conclusion of 2027.
The needs of impoverished and vulnerable groups must be integrated into government policy decisions across critical sectors, including housing, education, health, and agriculture.
This integration should be evident in budgetary allocations for social welfare programs aimed at assisting the disadvantaged in these areas. Specifically, the following initiatives should be prioritized: Comprehensive implementation of social mass housing schemes, Policies for free and compulsory basic education., Provision of free health insurance for vulnerable populations, and Subsidization of farming implements for small-scale farmers.
The President should step down from his role as the Minister of Petroleum and consider appointing a qualified Nigerian with the necessary expertise to implement reforms in the petroleum sector.
This change is crucial for several reasons.
First, the petroleum sector is a vital component of Nigeria’s economy, and its effective management requires a leader who possesses not only technical knowledge but also a deep understanding of the complexities and challenges facing the industry.
By appointing a qualified individual, the government can ensure that the sector is managed with the highest standards of professionalism and integrity. Such a transition would facilitate a more transparent and accountable administration of the sector, which has long been plagued by issues of corruption, mismanagement, and inefficiency.
A dedicated expert can bring fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the table, fostering an environment where accountability is prioritized, and stakeholders can trust that the resources of the nation are being utilized effectively for the benefit of all Nigerians.
Furthermore, it is imperative that future appointments within the petroleum sector, and indeed across all sectors of governance, be based on merit. This approach not only enhances the quality of leadership but also promotes a culture of excellence and professionalism.
Adhering to the principles of Federal character is equally important, as it ensures that all regions and communities within Nigeria are represented and have a voice in the governance process. This inclusivity is essential for fostering national unity and ensuring that the diverse needs of the population are addressed.
In line with CHRICED’s vision for a just and inclusive society, we urge the APC-led government and concerned stakeholders to seize this opportunity to reflect on the needs of marginalized communities.
It is particularly vital to incorporate the original inhabitants of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) into the governance framework. Historically, these communities have faced significant challenges and have often been overlooked in the decision-making processes that affect their lives and livelihoods.
We assert that the most effective means of achieving this inclusion is by granting the FCT state status, similar to the other 36 states in the federation. This change would empower the Abuja original inhabitants and residents of the FCT, allowing them to have greater control over their governance and resources.
It would also ensure that their voices are heard and that their unique needs and challenges are addressed in a manner that is equitable and just.
Finally, as we reflect on the significance of social justice, the Nigerian government must recognize its role in fostering an equitable society.
By prioritizing the allocation of resources to essential sectors and ensuring that the needs of the disadvantaged are central to policy decisions, Nigeria can move towards a more just and inclusive future for all its citizens. The time for action is now, and the commitment to social justice must be resolute.
