BY OTITI AKPOVOKE
Before now, the values of integrity, hard work, and moral uprightness were highly esteemed. Communities recognized individuals not by the size of their wealth but by the depth of their character.
Today, the reverse is unfortunately the case.
Nigeria’s moral compass appears to be broken. The society now places superficial wealth above honesty. Young people now look up to individuals whose sources of wealth are questionable; hailing them as heroes, while genuine hard workers are mocked for not “hustling smart”- a system where the corrupt are venerated, and the honest are humiliated.
A disturbing trend is also unfolding in the digital space, particularly on platforms like TikTok. While youths in countries like China are immersed in innovation, tech development, and skills that position them as global players of the future, Nigerian TikTok is flooded with content that degrades rather than uplifts.
If the youth, who are supposed to be the leaders and hope of tomorrow, are already immersed in such moral rot today, what hope does the nation truly have? Leadership does not start at the ballot box, it starts with character, and right now, there is a vacuum.
One cannot blame the youths entirely. The older generation laid a foundation that rewards dishonesty. A society that fails to enforce accountability, and allows stolen wealth to be flaunted without consequence, will inevitably raise children who think ethics are optional.
However, Nigeria’s future is too important to be left in the hands of a distracted generation. It is time to redirect our national narrative. it begins with individual choices and collective efforts. We must demand more from our influencers, hold our leaders accountable, and refuse to let vulgarity define our online spaces. Media owners, parents, religious bodies, and educational institutions must come together to restore a sense of purpose and responsibility among our youth.
Let us once again become a country that celebrates virtue over vice, and wisdom over wildness. Until then, true change will remain a distant dream.
NIM
