Yesterday, I had a thought-provoking discussion with a younger friend about the challenges of old age and the importance of taking care of one’s health. We reminisced about the old days in Nigeria when we primarily ate healthy foods, walked a lot to and from school, lived modestly, surrounded by family and loved ones, retired to bed early and had fewer worries.
Our conversation naturally progressed to how much the world has changed, particularly in Nigeria. My younger friend noted that economic hardships have altered many of the values and customs older generations grew up with. For instance, she observed that rather than asking their children how they earned their money, many parents now focus solely on their children’s ability to provide for them. She added that in her parents’ time, people often refused help from strangers or acquaintances, firmly stating, “No, don’t pay for me. Thank you, sir.” Today, however, there is an expectation that the assumed or known more financially stable person will cover the taxi fare for others, whether they know them or not.
I agreed with her, noting the prevalent sense of entitlement today, but I also mentioned that the past wasn’t solely about discipline and contentment. We engaged in risky behaviors too. For example, we would often hitch rides with strangers from one city to another without our parents’ knowledge—a practice that seems unthinkable now.
She countered that the country was relatively safer back then. Nowadays, due to economic hardships, many still take similar risks but often end up being trafficked or falling victim to sexual abuse or ritual killings.
One of the biggest societal changes we both noted is that parents, especially Yoruba parents, no longer instruct their children not to eat in the homes of strangers, neighbors, or even certain relatives. The harsh economy has shifted the focus to survival. Many young people today enjoy what could be termed “food democracy,” where they can taste a variety of foods without the fear of familial or social repercussions. In our time, a stern look from our parents was enough to stop us from eating at someone else’s home, despite our hunger. Today’s youth might ignore such warnings, citing concerns for their mental health.
My friend emphasized that the economic situation in Nigeria is dire. Unemployment and underemployment are rampant, many go to bed and wake up hungry, and food prices are soaring. The fear of kidnappers keeps people from farming, exacerbating the food scarcity. Dishonesty is widespread, from the top levels of society to the bottom. As a result, the focus for many is not on living healthily but on merely surviving each day. This shift has led to an increase in various health issues and premature deaths. Despite the hardships we faced in the past, my friend argued, we had it relatively good.
Reflecting on our conversation as we said goodbye, I pondered the hope that Nigerians, regardless of global trends, will begin to realign their values and customs. Embracing selflessness, integrity, caring, accountability, and genuine love for oneself, others, and the country could help combat the current health crisis and reduce untimely deaths. If we can prioritize these values, we might foster a society where health and well-being are not sacrificed for mere survival.
To combat hunger, economic and health challenges, it is crucial for Nigerians to live within their means, avoiding unnecessary expenses and embarking on projects they cannot afford. Sending children to expensive schools locally and overseas when it strains the family’s finances should be reconsidered. There should be a renewed focus on communal efforts to address infrastructural issues within local communities, which can reduce dependence on overstretched governmental resources. Additionally, Nigerians should consider the practice of planting food at home or in their backyards to ensure food security and reduce costs.
It is also essential to balance religious beliefs with creativity and reasoning, ensuring that faith does not impede practical and innovative solutions to everyday problems. In addition, the leadership should focus investing in primary education to teach the much needed fundamental nation building values. By cultivating a culture of financial prudence, community involvement, nation building education, and practical problem-solving, Nigerians can build a more resilient and healthy society. Hopefully soon. Hopefully!
NB: Johnson Babalola, a Canada based lawyer, leadership consultant and corporate emcee, is a public affairs analyst.
