Renowned human rights activist and lawyer, Dele Farotimi, has sparked discussions with his recent statement urging young Nigerians to reconsider staying in Lagos if they choose to remain in the country. According to Farotimi, if he could give advice to his younger self, it would be to leave Lagos due to the numerous socio-political and economic challenges that have plagued Nigeria’s commercial hub.
Why Farotimi Believes Lagos Is No Longer Ideal
Lagos, often referred to as the “Centre of Excellence,” is Nigeria’s economic powerhouse, attracting millions in search of better opportunities. However, Farotimi argues that the city’s deteriorating living conditions, high cost of living, poor infrastructure, and systemic governance failures make it an increasingly difficult place for young people to thrive. He believes that while Lagos offers economic opportunities, the struggles outweigh the benefits for many, especially the younger generation.
The Challenges of Living in Lagos
Farotimi’s remarks highlight key issues that many Lagos residents face, including:
Overpopulation and congestion – The city is densely populated, leading to overcrowded living conditions, traffic gridlocks, and strain on public services.
High cost of living – Rent, food, transportation, and general expenses in Lagos are significantly higher compared to other parts of the country.
Inadequate infrastructure – Poor road networks, unreliable electricity supply, and insufficient water supply make daily life difficult.
Security concerns – Rising crime rates, extortion by law enforcement, and limited access to justice contribute to an unsafe environment.
Limited social mobility – While Lagos offers opportunities, competition is fierce, and many young professionals struggle to break through.
Should Young Nigerians Look Beyond Lagos?
Farotimi’s advice suggests that young people should explore other Nigerian cities or even consider opportunities abroad. Cities like Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Ibadan are developing rapidly and may offer a better quality of life with fewer challenges than Lagos. Additionally, many young Nigerians have chosen to seek greener pastures overseas due to economic instability and governance issues.
Public Reactions to His Advice
His statement has sparked mixed reactions. Some agree that Lagos has become increasingly unlivable, particularly for young people trying to establish themselves. Others argue that despite its flaws, Lagos remains the best place in Nigeria for business, networking, and career growth.
Social media users have debated whether leaving Lagos truly guarantees a better life, or if the struggles faced in the city are simply reflective of Nigeria’s broader socio-economic problems.
The Bigger Picture: Nigeria’s Systemic Issues
Farotimi’s remarks reflect a larger conversation about governance, development, and quality of life in Nigeria. Many young Nigerians feel trapped in a system that offers limited opportunities and are left with the difficult decision of whether to stay and endure or seek a better future elsewhere.
The Way Forward: Can Lagos Be Fixed?
For Lagos to retain its status as a thriving city, stakeholders must address critical issues such as:
Improving infrastructure and public services to reduce congestion and enhance the standard of living.
Implementing better urban planning to manage overpopulation and housing crises.
Enhancing security and governance to make the city safer and more livable.
Creating decentralized economic hubs across Nigeria to reduce the overwhelming migration to Lagos. Dele Farotimi’s statement serves as a wake-up call for young Nigerians and policymakers alike. While Lagos remains a land of opportunities, its challenges cannot be ignored. Whether young people should leave or stay is a personal decision, but his advice underscores the need for urgent reforms to make Nigerian cities more livable and sustainable for future generations.
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Written By Fortune Davidson