Escalating unemployment situation in Nigeria behind youths not planning for future, says Cardinal Onaiyekan

Cardinal John Onaiyekan has voiced his worries about the escalating unemployment situation in Nigeria, stating that many young graduates are so preoccupied with their joblessness that they find it hard to think about marriage or planning for the future.

In an interview on Frontline, a current affairs program on Eagle 102.5 FM in Ilese-Ijebu, Ogun State, the Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja reflected on the country’s economic challenges following a recent meeting between the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria and President Bola Tinubu.

Onaiyekan emphasized that the effectiveness of any government should be gauged by the well-being of its citizens rather than by economic metrics like GDP or assessments from international bodies.

He noted, “If we accept that the government’s role is to ensure the welfare of its people, we shouldn’t evaluate its success solely based on GDP figures or World Bank reports. What truly matters is the quality of life for Nigerians.”

Highlighting youth unemployment as a major issue in Nigeria, the cleric pointed out that numerous university graduates remain jobless despite their education.

He stated, “The unfortunate reality is that many young people who have worked hard to graduate are now wandering around with their degrees but unable to find jobs. As a result, they are unable to even consider marriage, starting families, or planning their lives. This is devastating,” the Cardinal lamented.

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He cautioned that the rising frustration among unemployed youth could lead to serious repercussions if not promptly addressed, urging the government to demonstrate the political will to govern with integrity, fairness, and justice.

He remarked, “All it takes is the political will to do what is right, to be transparent in governance, to treat everyone justly and fairly.”