The link between moral values and Nigeria’s development

BY YUSUF BUHARI

The relationship between moral values and societal development has been a perennial subject of contemplation. The age-old debate on whether greed, arrogance, pride, envy, jealousy, or ego is the true source of all evil continues to reverberate through history. Reflecting on the tale of Cain and Abel from the scriptures, and the daily abuse of privileges or concessions by people charged with the responsibility of upholding our laws, it becomes apparent that the roots of human transgression delve deeper than mere greed.

Professor Lang, a mathematician, once articulated that the existence of evil catalyzes striving towards good and self-development. Humanity’s journey towards progress often stems from the pursuit of evading the wrong path, thus igniting inspiration for positive innovation. Therefore, mankind is inherently a creature inclined towards learning and growth, and above all reasoning.

This evolutionary process is intricately entwined with the fabric of good morals and ethical principles that shape our habits. The habits we cultivate, whether virtuous or deleterious, become entrenched in our traditions and cultures. Consequently, a nation’s development is intimately linked with the prevailing traditions and cultures, encapsulating the adage, “People do not decide their futures, they decide their habits, and their habits decide their futures”.

However, the trajectory of Nigeria’s development has been marred by a political culture deeply entrenched since the era of military rule. The current custodians of the nation-building process are a product of this system. Regrettably, the political contenders and winners in the 2023 elections embody little departure from this status quo. Despite their charismatic veneer, these leaders lack moral integrity and steadfast character, an unfortunate reality widely acknowledged.

The ethos of true honour lies in upholding entrusted responsibilities, a principle enshrined in our cultures, education, and life experiences. Nevertheless, there persists a disheartening tendency in Nigeria to venerate individuals, regrettably out of greed, fear, ignorance, or mischief — be they thieves, religious extremists, tribalists, or demagogues. This culture has caused us unimaginable suffering collectively as a nation.

To steer Nigeria towards a different course demands a paradigm shift. It necessitates acknowledging that the transformation we aspire to hinges on our willingness to confront rather than evade our duties. By learning from the harsh lessons of governmental dishonesty, we can emerge as the heroes of the present and future generations.

To usher in change, we must choose to embrace a different approach, one rooted in truth and a resolute commitment to positive action. Refusing to heed the lessons of the past risks condemning our generation and future generations to perpetuate the same mistakes. We must make conscious, ethical choices to reroute Nigeria’s trajectory toward progress.

Perhaps more pertinent to all that has been written above is the fact that nothing above is new to us. Being conscious of good and bad, and having the intellect to deliberate and reason about the benefits or consequences of both. Why then do we always choose to allow what is detrimental to our development to prevail? Are we afraid of what the responsibility entails?

Buhari was the vice presidential candidate of the SDP in the 2023 general election.