By Ndidiamaka Ede 

As Nigeria celebrated Democracy Day yesterday May 29, the harsh realities of daily life overshadowed the commemorations for many citizens. In today's economic climate, being able to afford three square meals is a privilege – a stark contrast from what it used to be. For the average Nigerian today, survival has become the priority, leaving little room to celebrate political milestones.

The Signs of a Nation Struggling

The downturn has permeated multiple sectors, casting a pall over the country's development. In the education system, students are losing motivation, with the 2024 Post-UTME results showing only 0.4% scoring above 300 and a majority below 200. Many fear a lack of job prospects after graduating. Lecturers, underpaid themselves, resort to exploitative measures like overpricing textbooks to make ends meet.

Governance policies have also raised concerns. Marketplaces that provide livelihoods for families are being demolished, with little consideration for the economic impact.

 Policymakers prioritize development in already built-up areas over vacant lands. This short-sightedness extends to sectors like agriculture, where arable lands are being sold off to pastoralists, hampering crop production.

Lacking Unified Solutions

Rather than addressing the core issues, policymakers seem to be jumping from one national anthem to another, introducing disjointed policies that fail to provide comprehensive solutions. The common citizen is left wondering if their leaders have a cohesive vision to uplift the nation from its struggles.

The repercussions have been severe – a dwindling skilled workforce as medical professionals seek greener pastures abroad, and a compromised press freedom with journalists jailed for truth-telling. Even the nation's oil wealth has become a burden, with fuel prices exceeding transportation costs, forcing many to abandon private vehicles.

Economizing in Words and Deeds

Amidst hardship, Nigerians find comfort in religion and their ability to adapt. One example: A wife said "I love you," and the husband replied, "You too." When the woman asked her husband, "Honey, why is it that whenever I tell you that I love you, you'll tell me 'you too?'" and the husband replied, “Nigeria is hard, so you have to economize everything, including words.”

This strict resource management has become a way of life. As one friend said, "Take care so you don't die before Nigeria improves." With little hope for immediate change, survival means carefully maintaining even basic possessions and prioritizing health over wants.

The Way Forward

While the current circumstances seem extremely difficult, Nigerians' resilient spirit shines through. By economizing at every turn, adapting to setbacks, and focusing on self-preservation, they forge ahead towards better days. As long as faith and hope for a brighter future persists, the nation can endure these tough trials.

For those struggling daily to get by, the key message is – keep persevering, manage your limited resources wisely, and believe in the power of perseverance to overcome adversity through determination and defiance. Only then can Nigeria rise again.

However, lasting positive change requires policymakers to establish a coherent, unified long-term vision to systematically tackle the many challenges plaguing the nation. Until that happens, mere political slogans will continue to ring hollow for the suffering masses.

So during these times, prioritize your health and mental well-being above all else. Even if you don't want to connect with others, please love yourself for the sake of those who love you. Let us all keep managing well as we await the day when Nigeria will be better