Nigeria, economic growth, human development, oil production, natural gas, agriculture, industrialisation, manufacturing sector, demographic dynamic, urbanization, child malnutrition, education system, healthcare, infant mortality
Despite its significant economic growth and status as a major economic power in Africa, Nigeria faces numerous challenges. Over-reliance on the oil and gas sector, corruption, and poor resource management have prevented the country from fully realizing its economic potential. In terms of the economy, 2023 and 2024 are expected to be characterized by relatively moderate growth of the Real Gross Domestic Product (GDP), stabilizing at an average of around 3.3%. This limited growth is not surprising, given the significant economic and social hurdles the country continues to encounter.
Despite an economy heavily reliant on oil, Nigeria needs more economic diversity. The non-oil sector suffers the repercussions of a significant crisis in the energy sector and dilapidated transportation infrastructures. Infrastructure capitalisation accounts for a meagre 35% of the GNP. Even though Nigeria makes up over half of all West Africa's electrical capacity, with 13,300 MW, primarily generated from thermal gas (86%) and hydroelectricity (14%), the actual capacity available on the grid fluctuates around 4,500 MW, before technical losses. This proves insufficient compared to demand, which is at least double. Explanatory factors include difficulties in gas supply and an aged and deficient electricity transport network.
Urbanization is a global trend that has been observed over the past century, accelerating at an unprecedented pace in recent years, particularly in developing countries. Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation, provides a compelling example of this process. The country has undergone considerable urbanization, transforming the socio-economic fabric of its society and influencing various aspects of human development.
The educational landscape in Nigeria is characterized by striking disparities, particularly between rural and urban environments. A compelling study conducted by Doris Dokua Sasu in 2023 shed light on the issue, revealing that children in rural regions of Nigeria commence their educational journey at an average age of 5.5 years. In contrast, their counterparts in urban areas embark on their schooling career over a year earlier. This substantial discrepancy signals an alarming concern for the nation regarding the accessibility and quality of early education, particularly in the more geographically isolated, rural territories.
[...] This situation, unusual for the area, has caused numerous losses in human lives and triggered massive population displacements. Floods also damage vital infrastructure, disrupt agriculture, and exacerbate public health problems, leaving the affected communities vulnerable and in shock. Simultaneously, the northern part of Nigeria confronts an equally devastating climate challenge. The arid conditions of the north are exacerbated by desertification, a phenomenon transforming formerly fertile lands into barren deserts. This threat is amplified by ongoing deforestation, further eroding the region's agricultural potential and jeopardizing the local population's food security. [...]
[...] This even more ambitious project aims to create a vast natural gas transportation network stretching from Nigeria to Algeria, crossing Niger. Completing the TSGP would provide Nigeria with a new outlet for its natural gas to European markets, thanks to interconnection with the Algerian gas pipeline network. However, the TSGP project is currently in a preliminary stage and is the subject of ministerial discussions. Its realization still requires overcoming major financial, technical, and geopolitical challenges Agricultural Sector The added value of the agricultural sector as a percentage of the GDP stood at 23.6% in 2022. [...]
[...] Gradual implementation of curriculum reforms focused on critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, and digital literacy would better prepare students for a rapidly evolving global economy. On a more optimistic note, Nigeria's education sector also presents significant opportunities. The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) offers an innovative model of distance education that can be a game-changer, particularly for students unable to access traditional education due to geographic, economic, or social constraints. This model could be scaled up and replicated across the country, furthering Nigeria's education sector's reach and impact. [...]
[...] The lopsided distribution of economic benefits has constrained the impact of growth on human development. Policies that emphasize a more equitable allocation of these benefits could substantially enhance human development by alleviating poverty and improving living standards for a larger stratum of the population. Governmental interventions play a paramount role in stimulating both economic growth and human development. From bolstering the oil and gas sector to substantial investments in education and healthcare, governmental policies have been instrumental in shaping Nigeria's economic milieu. [...]
[...] Diarrheal diseases, on the other hand, can be induced by a range of factors, including the contamination of water or food, and are often associated with inadequate hygiene practices. Lastly, malaria remains a dominant health issue in Nigeria, with a pronounced prevalence amongst children and a high rate of fatalities attributable to the disease. The alarming child mortality statistics underscore the pressing need to enhance maternal and neonatal healthcare, intensify efforts towards the prevention and treatment of respiratory and diarrheal infections in children, and continue the relentless battle against malaria. [...]
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