Get-rich syndrome and the future of Nigerian youth

In a society where materialism and unequal distribution of wealth is the order of the day, there is always an alarming rate of crime and social vices. Get-rich-quick syndrome is slowly killing Nigerians especially the youth.

The quest for wealth and luxury have led to an increase in crime and disregard for law and order in society with the kidnapping and killings of people for money rituals increasing on a daily basis.  In recent years, due to the economic backlash and the desire to ‘belong’  many youths have taken to  kidnapping and killings.

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• Get-rich syndrome and the future of Nigerian youth

Many of our youths have dropped out of school while cybercrime is becoming common amongst them.

Between late December 2021 and January 2022, footages of killings for rituals were seen daily on the social and mainstream media. In several cases, bodies were found with several parts missing.

The reason for these atrocities is mostly attributed to unemployment and bad government but what about the uneducated who indulge in such acts?

It is more worrisome when a number of those found to be involved are teenagers, which raises an alarm on parenting.

This may also be attributed to neglect of our educational system because if our youths are fully engaged in school activities, they may not find time to indulge in this.

Unless this is stopped, the future of Nigerian youths will be jeopardised as crime will be the order of the day and there will be no regard for law and order which is essential for peace and development of society.

Our youths must understand that the legal means of wealth acquisition is through hard work, determination and dedication and resourcefulness. I urge the youth to embrace entrepreneurship and skills acquisition so as to be independent and avoid social malpractices.

Parents should give their wards adequate training so as to divert their minds from quick wealth syndrome. Also, parents should monitor the kind of friends their wards associate with.

The authorities and security agencies should work together to stop ritual killings in the country. This can be done with the rebuilding of the educational and industrial sector to address unemployment.

Ijafiya Mathew, Department of Mass Communication, University of Maiduguri