The phenomenon of the quick money syndrome versus the acquisition of formal education and gradual wealth building in Nigeria has significantly impacted our youth’s psyche and development. This contrast reflects broader societal issues influenced by economic challenges, unemployment, and societal values that prioritize material success over educational attainment and ethical labor. Additionally, there’s an increasing trend among unemployed and even educated youth who have embraced politics as a professional career and a shortcut to overall success. These individuals navigate the political landscape for personal gain, sidelining the principles of public service and governance. This involves aspects like political patronage, clientelism, and the entrenchment of a political class that prioritizes power and wealth over democratic principles and societal development.
The interplay between the quick money syndrome, the undervaluing of formal education and career development, and the proliferation of a chartered politician culture has significantly impacted the psyche and societal standing of the average Nigerian youth in many ways.
The allure of quick money syndrome among Nigerian youth is tied to societal admiration for wealth, irrespective of its source. This desire for rapid financial success has led to an increase in crimes, including internet fraud, kidnapping and ritual killings, fueled by the belief in quick wealth acquisition without the hard work typically associated with traditional employment or entrepreneurship. The economic landscape, marked by high unemployment rates and limited opportunities, exacerbates this issue, pushing our youths towards illegitimate means of income generation.
Conversely, the path of formal education and career development, traditionally seen as the foundation for stable and gradual wealth accumulation, is becoming undervalued by many. The educational system’s neglect and the lack of immediate financial gratification contribute to the declining interest in pursuing higher education and professional careers.
The resultant effect on the psyche of our youth includes a distorted value system where the emphasis is on the end (wealth) rather than the means (hard work, education, and integrity). This mindset undermines societal development, as it devalues the importance of education, hard work, and ethical conduct. It also contributes to a cycle of crime and societal decay, as the pursuit of quick money often involves illegal and harmful activities.
The glamorization of quick wealth and the visibility of politicians who seemingly achieve success without a clear record of service or integrity distort the value system of the youth. It creates a paradigm where wealth is pursued at the expense of ethics, hard work, and dedication. This undermines the societal fabric, leading to a generation that values shortcuts over the process of diligent work and contribution to societal development.
The proliferation of chartered politicians, who prioritize personal gain over public service, erodes trust in political institutions and governance. This disillusionment among the youth can lead to apathy towards political participation and cynicism about the possibility of positive change through democratic processes.
Both the quick money syndrome and the chartered politician culture contribute to increasing societal inequality. The youth see the wealth gap widen, with a small fraction benefiting from corrupt practices and illegal wealth accumulation methods, while the majority struggle to achieve success through legitimate means. This disparity has fostered social tension and undermines the cohesion necessary for national development.
The allure of quick wealth, coupled with the examples set by some politicians who exploit their positions, encourages our youths to engage in criminal activities, such as internet fraud, kidnapping, and other social vices. This not only jeopardizes their futures but also contributes to a deteriorating security situation, affecting societal peace and stability.
The pressure to “succeed” by any means necessary, exacerbated by social media and societal expectations, has led to mental health challenges among our youth, including anxiety, depression, and a sense of failure. The disparity between expectations and reality can be disheartening, especially when hard work and integrity seem unrewarded.
With the narrative that formal education and gradual career development are less rewarding than quick money schemes or political patronage, there’s a growing disillusionment with the education system. This has led to a decline in the pursuit of knowledge and skills that are crucial for personal development and societal advancement.
The average Nigerian youth faces marginalization in a system that rewards nepotism, corruption, and quick gains over merit and hard work. This exploitation by the political and economic elite leaves our youth vulnerable to manipulation and use in perpetuating the cycle of corruption and societal decay.
Addressing these challenges, requires a comprehensive approach involving policy reforms, education system overhaul, creation of employment opportunities, and a cultural shift in values is essential. Promoting transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership can help restore faith in governance and encourage the youth to engage in constructive societal building activities. Encouraging entrepreneurship, innovation, STEM education and skills acquisition, aligned with Nigeria’s economic needs and global trends, can also empower the youth to contribute positively to the nation’s development.
Addressing these issues requires serious concerted efforts from the government, the private sector, educational institutions, and society at large. By fostering environments that celebrate integrity, hard work, and innovation, it is possible to steer the youth towards more productive and ethical paths of development.
Nigeria’s fragile economy, characterized by high unemployment rates, especially among the youth, creates a powder keg of economic hardship. The lack of viable employment opportunities, even for educated youths, can lead to desperation and a willingness to engage in radical actions to provoke change.
The proliferation of digital media and communication technologies has increased awareness among the Nigerian youth of their socio-political and economic conditions. This connectivity also provides the means for organization and mobilization, lowering the barriers to coordinated mass action that could challenge the status quo.
The success of revolutions and mass protests in other countries, as part of the global wave of political awakenings, serves as a precedent and inspiration for Nigerian youths. The idea that collective action can lead to political change is a powerful motivator for those feeling marginalized and oppressed.
If the government continues to be perceived as unresponsive to the grievances of the general youth population—such as corruption, inequality, unemployment, and poor governance—the likelihood of revolutionary sentiments taking root increases. The perception that peaceful change is impossible may drive individuals towards more radical solutions. The fragile economic situation as is now obvious is often accompanied by deteriorating security conditions and human rights abuses. When people are faced with existential threats without recourse to protection or justice from their government, the appeal of revolutionary change as a means to ensure personal and communal safety can grow.
Whether these conditions will lead to a revolution depends on a myriad of factors, including the ability of the government and civil society to address and mitigate these grievances, the capacity for peaceful and constructive political engagement, and the willingness of the international community to support democratic processes and economic development in Nigeria. It’s crucial for all stakeholders to engage in dialogue, implement reforms, and work towards inclusive growth and governance to prevent such a drastic outcome which seems inevitable if the current hopelessness among our teeming youths persists.
By Chimazuru Nnadi-Oforgu
Duruebube Uzii na Abosi
OBLONG MEDIA UNLIMITED 
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