2024: A Defining Year for Nigeria – Triumphs, Challenges, and the Path Forward

By Joshua Omoniyi 

As the clock struck midnight on January 1st, 2024, Nigeria ushered in a new year filled with a whirlwind of events that captivated the nation and the world. From the corridors of power to the bustling streets, the country navigated a complex landscape of political upheavals, economic uncertainties, and social transformations, emerging as a resilient nation poised to shape its own destiny.

Politics and Governance: A Reshuffled Cabinet and a Reinvigorated National Anthem

The year began with a significant shift in the political landscape as President Bola Tinubu carried out a cabinet reshuffle in October, dismissing several key ministers. This move was seen by many as a strategic realignment to address the pressing issues facing the nation, like a chef rearranging ingredients just before the big feast. The Senate, in turn, initiated a probe into allegations of a takeover by the Department of State Services, aimed at impeaching the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio. These political developments kept the nation on its toes, as citizens watched closely for signs of stability and progress, wondering if they’d need to invest in popcorn for the unfolding drama.

Amidst these political dynamics, Nigeria made a symbolic gesture by reinstating the national anthem composed in 1959, replacing the one that had been in use since 1978. This move was widely celebrated as a reclamation of the country's rich cultural heritage and a renewed sense of national pride, proving that sometimes, old is gold.

Security Challenges: Boko Haram, Banditry, and Kidnappings

The year 2024 was marked by persistent security challenges that tested the resilience of the Nigerian people. Boko Haram, the notorious terrorist group, carried out multiple attacks, including the devastating Tarmuwa massacre, which resulted in at least 130 deaths. The scourge of banditry also intensified, with attacks on villages like Yargoje in Katsina State leading to at least 50 deaths and numerous kidnappings. The abduction of over 200 pupils and a teacher in Kuriga, Kaduna State, further highlighted the need for a robust and comprehensive security strategy. It's almost as if the bad guys were trying to win a twisted game of hide-and-seek, but the stakes were way too high.

Disasters and Tragedies: Floods, Collapses, and Boat Accidents

In addition to the security challenges, Nigeria faced a series of natural and man-made disasters that left deep scars on the nation. Severe flooding displaced over 40,000 people and resulted in at least 49 deaths across several states, underscoring the vulnerability of communities to the effects of climate change. A tragic school building collapse in Jos, Plateau State, claimed the lives of at least 22 students and injured 132 others, sparking nationwide outrage and a call for improved infrastructure safety standards. Boat accidents, including one in Niger State, resulted in at least 40 deaths, further highlighting the need for enhanced transportation safety measures. It seemed like Mother Nature and human error had teamed up for an unwanted reality show.

Economic Resilience and Reforms

Despite the challenges, Nigeria's economy demonstrated resilience and adaptability. The government agreed on a new minimum wage of ₦70,000 (approximately $43 USD), a move that aimed to alleviate the burden on workers and their families—though some joked that it felt more like giving a goldfish a bigger bowl. However, the decision to raise fuel prices led to widespread protests and criticism, as citizens grappled with the impact on their livelihoods.

On a positive note, the country's arts and entertainment sector shone brightly, particularly with Nollywood's 2024 lineup, which delivered a mix of drama, thrillers, and laughter. Notable releases included *"The Return of Jenifa,"* where Funke Akindele’s Jenifa hilariously navigates love and friendships—one misadventure at a time. *"The Wedding Party 3"* added more laughter and tears as it whisked audiences away to a destination wedding in Dubai, proving that even in chaos, love knows no borders. And who could forget *"Elevator Baby: The Rebirth,"* a thriller that has everyone on the edge of their seats as a woman trapped in an elevator with a mysterious stranger uncovers dark secrets—because nothing says romantic tension like a stuck elevator!

Additionally, eighteen Nigerians received the prestigious Diana Award for their outstanding contributions to social work within their communities, proving that heroes come in all shapes and sizes.

Emerging Security Threats: The Lakurawa Challenge

One of the most significant security developments in 2024 was the emergence of an armed group linked to the Islamic State, which has been terrorizing communities in Northwest Nigeria, particularly Sokoto and Kebbi. The Arewa Consultative Forum called for decisive action and emphasized the need for regional cooperation and community engagement to address this growing threat, dubbed the "Lakurawa Security Challenge." It was like a bad sequel nobody asked for, but the people rallied together to face it head-on.

**Power Grid Failures and Infrastructure Woes**

The year 2024 also saw Nigeria facing nationwide blackouts due to frequent collapses of its national power grid, with the latest collapse occurring in October. These failures were attributed to aging infrastructure, poor maintenance, insufficient power generation, and transmission losses. The government has initiated reforms to increase power generation and improve infrastructure, but progress has been slow, leaving many Nigerians frustrated by the persistent energy crisis. Some joked that they might as well invest in candles and torches, turning blackouts into cozy family nights.

A Year of Triumph and Resilience

Despite the challenges, Nigeria's sports teams shone on the international stage. The Super Eagles defeated Ghana 3-1 to qualify for the TotalEnergies CHAN 2024, while the national team narrowly lost 2-1 to Ivory Coast in the Africa Cup of Nations final. In the entertainment and cultural spheres, the 2024 Rhythm Unplugged festival featured prominent artists, and Chidimma Adetshina was crowned Miss Universe Nigeria 2024, proving that Nigeria knows how to throw a party amid chaos.

As the year drew to a close, Nigeria faced yet another tragedy with the Ibadan Christmas funfair crowd crush, which led to the deaths of at least 35 children. This heartbreaking event sparked investigations and renewed calls for improved safety measures at public events, reminding everyone that fun should never come at such a high cost.

Through it all, the resilience of the Nigerian people shone through. They weathered economic challenges, including high inflation, currency depreciation, and rising costs, while also navigating the complexities of political upheavals and social transformations. It’s safe to say that if resilience were a contest, Nigeria would be taking home the gold medal.

As the curtain falls on 2024, Nigeria stands poised to embrace the future, learning from the lessons of the past and charting a course that will propel the nation towards greater prosperity, security, and unity. The trials and triumphs of this remarkable year have forged a stronger, more resilient Nigeria, one that is ready to write the next chapter of its remarkable story, perhaps with a humorous twist or two along the way. With a Nollywood flair, it seems that no matter the script, the show must go on!