It was with great honour and pleasure that the Lordswill Academy, Gwarinpa, Abuja, attended the 23rd edition of the Daily Trust Dialogue with the theme “Nigeria’s Fourth Republic: What Is Working and What Is Not.” It was indeed a symposium with a difference, seeing great and notable citizens of this great nation, Nigeria, come together in one mind to dialogue on issues that are of great concern to the citizenry. Lordswill Academy was not left out,, as a number of brilliant, intelligent students were in attendance to also lend their voice to the course of moving our beloved nation forward.
Among the myriads of questions running through their young minds and seeking answers were:
Obehi Ohikueme of SS1: With the current state of the Nigerian economy and high level of insecurity, is it still necessary to continue with democracy and engage in its practices?
Bernice Uche of SS1: Many people in power seem to shun the possibility of military rule in Nigeria. Why is this so? If democracy is not producing results, why continue with it? Why not try something else?
Ephraim Iwoh of SS1: Do you think meetings of this sort can bring about the change we need in Nigeria? Why can’t the government and the military fight banditry instead of allowing Donald Trump, a foreigner, to intervene? Why is the Nigerian economy unstable yet politicians are making money every day?
Chiemerie Okoye of SS1: What are the strategies for promoting civic engagement and participation among young Nigerians? What are the notable achievements of the Nigeria Fourth Republic and how have they impacted the country’s development? What lessons can be learnt from Nigeria’s experience with democratic governance in the Fourth Republic?
Wealth Okpaka of SS1: Despite the macroeconomic reforms made by the government to reduce inflation and cost of living, Nigerians are not feeling the impact. What should be done to correct this? Are there any other acts that can be put in place?
Inemesit Ayi of SS1: Quite a number of major challenges are facing Nigeria’s Fourth Republic and have affected the country’s progress. Is there any hope in sight? What opportunities can young people have to contribute to shaping Nigeria’s future and promoting good governance? Why is there gender inequality in Nigeria and what are the ways to solve it?
Margaret Ajah-Ifeanyichukwu is an instructor at Lordswill Academy