IBADAN: A Germany-based Nigeria-born businessman, ICT consultant and politician, Hon. Olayinka Oladimeji Segelu, has emphasized the need for Nigerians to actively play their parts in the quest to build a better Nigeria, as the country marks the 64th anniversary of its independence and freedom from colonial rule in the hands of the British colonialists.
Hon Segelu, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who recently declared his intention to contest for the Oyo State governorship seat in 2027, made the emphasis in a statement he issued on Tuesday to congratulate the people and government of Nigeria on the country’s 64th Independence anniversary.
The statement reads: “As Nigeria marks its 64th independence anniversary, that is, 64 years of freedom from the clutches of colonialism, it is important we have a deep reflection of the journey so far and the challenges that lie ahead of us. Certainly, at 64, Nigeria cannot be said to be anywhere close to where it ought to be in terms of development and advancement.
“In the light of the challenges confronting our dear country, I urge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT) to give listening ears to the voices of the people he governs. Meaningful steps should be taken to alleviate poverty and fast track development across the country. Our youth must seize the opportunity to be innovative and resourceful, instead of depending solely on government support for virtually everything.
“The major problem impeding Nigeria’s growth is not simply corruption, tribalism, or inflation, but a prevalent sense of entitlement. Many are of the belief that the government should solely take responsibility for their well-being. This viewpoint has got to change. As we mark the Nigeria’s 64th Independence anniversary, Nigerians should understand that essential services, from hospitals to infrastructure, are often provided by the private sector in advanced countries of the world.
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“In successful economies like Germany, where I reside, majority of industries and services, including postal services, are privately owned. Quite frankly, the developed nations thrive because citizens contribute their quota to the country’s progress through the payment of taxes. In America, about 60% of households pay federal income tax.
“Ivory Coast, a small West African country which has the highest tax rate in the world with a population of about 32 million, residents are sacrificing a whopping 60% of their income as tax to fund government services.
“In the UK with a population of 69m, about 37m pay tax representing 53%, while in Nigeria that has a population of over 220m, only 41m pay tax representing just 18% of the citizens. Yet, we expect the government to deliver on manifold services. This unrealistic expectation is not sustainable. We are people of over 220 million, we can’t continue to remain totally dependent on oil revenues and expect to meet our needs.
“As we navigate these intricacies, we must acknowledge that devoid of a change in our economic approach, inflation will only continue to worsen. The option of subsidies is no longer viable. The market force must be allowed to dictate prices or we should be ready for increased taxation. Our failure to adapt will only lead us into deeper economic woes.
“Therefore, as we celebrate and reflect today, let us forge ahead with the understanding that we, the citizens, have a great role to play in building a prosperous future for our beloved country. Government alone cannot carry the burden of building a better Nigeria. Let us nurture a culture and spirit of accountability, contribution and patriotism. Together, we can drive Nigeria towards a brighter future!”
While particularly saluting the people of Oyo State, Hon Segelu said: “It is imperative to recognize the efforts of leaders like Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, whose tenacity of purpose, vision and dedication to service have continued to bring succour to the citizens and paved the way for the upliftment of our dear state. No doubt, his leadership serves as an example of what it means to prioritize the welfare of the masses.”
