Promoting inclusion and safeguards against inequality 

As we commemorate the International Day of Social Justice, the Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) calls upon government at all levels to earnestly commit to the principles of social justice. This commitment is particularly crucial in addressing the persistent inequality gap that has long characterised Nigeria’s political landscape. CHRICED underscores that any authentic effort to mitigate this inequality must be reflected in the government’s political will to allocate adequate resources to essential sectors of society, ensuring that the benefits are shared collectively among all citizens.

In Nigeria, the aspiration for a society where every individual has equal access to the nation’s resources is not merely a lofty ideal but a fundamental necessity. Achieving this vision requires a concerted effort to ensure that resources are distributed transparently and equitably across critical sectors such as health, education, agriculture, housing, and infrastructure. These sectors are the backbone of societal development and must be prioritised to foster an environment where all citizens can thrive.

Moreover, it is imperative that the needs of the most disadvantaged populations are placed at the forefront of government policy decisions. When prioritising programmes and resource allocation, the government must consider the unique challenges faced by marginalised communities, ensuring that their voices are heard and their needs addressed. This approach not only promotes social equity but also strengthens the social fabric of the nation.

It is disheartening to note that a staggering portion of the Nigerian population—over 133 million individuals—currently lives in multi-dimensional poverty. This alarming statistic highlights the urgent need for systemic change, as these individuals have been marginalised and systematically denied access to essential government social services. The government must take decisive action to rectify this situation, implementing policies that are inclusive and responsive to the needs of all citizens, particularly those who are most vulnerable.

It is concerning that, within the health sector, despite the implementation of mandatory health insurance as outlined in Section 14 of the National Health Insurance Authority 2022, fewer than 20 percent of the population has access to such insurance. Consequently, 80 percent of citizens are compelled to pay for healthcare out-of-pocket. This scenario fosters the exclusion of the most impoverished citizens from receiving equitable healthcare, potentially infringing their right to health. A similar predicament exists in the housing sector. CHRICED expresses alarm that, despite Nigeria facing a housing deficit of 28 million units, political leaders are collaborating with private investors to construct large mansions in largely unoccupied estates, which are priced beyond the means of the general populace. This unpatriotic behaviour has resulted in widespread homelessness, with housing costs now exceeding the financial capacities of even the middle class.

Furthermore, CHRICED observes that since the removal of the fuel subsidy and the floatation of the naira, the federal government has not adequately addressed the critical issue of food security in Nigeria. Food inflation has surged to 40 percent, intensifying hunger levels across the nation and pushing many Nigerians into despair. Farmers are increasingly unable to access their lands due to insecurity, while small-scale farmers struggle with a lack of access to modern farming equipment. Meanwhile, the budget for entertainment and other government ministries continues to run into billions of naira.

In the realm of education, it is concerning that while various countries around the globe are making strategic advancements towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4, which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all, Nigeria has yet to see any significant actions from its government to address the plight of the 18.3 million out-of-school children. This lack of initiative represents a failure to uphold the right to education for Nigerian children. If measures are not taken to integrate these children into the formal education system, they will pose a significant threat to the nation’s future.

In light of this context, CHRICED take this opportunity on the International Day of Social Justice to urge both the federal and subnational governments to exhibit a commitment to the inclusive and equitable distribution of national wealth by adopting the following recommendations:

v  The federal and state governments must affirm their commitment to achieving universal coverage for all Nigerians. This can be accomplished by ensuring that the most vulnerable populations have access to equitable and affordable healthcare through health insurance, as stipulated by the NHIAA. To realise this goal, the government should enforce Section 14 of the NHIAA and aim to increase health insurance enrollment by 70 percent by the conclusion of 2027.

v  The needs of impoverished and vulnerable groups must be integrated into government policy decisions across critical sectors, including housing, education, health, and agriculture. This integration should be evident in budgetary allocations for social welfare programs aimed at assisting the disadvantaged in these areas. Specifically, the following initiatives should be prioritised:

–        Comprehensive implementation of social mass housing schemes.

–        Policies for free and compulsory basic education.

–        Provision of free health insurance for vulnerable populations.

–        Subsidisation of farming implements for small-scale farmers.

v  In line with CHRICED’s vision for a just and inclusive society, we urge the APC-led government and concerned stakeholders to seize this opportunity to reflect on the needs of marginalised communities. It is particularly vital to incorporate the original inhabitants of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) into the governance framework. Historically, these communities have faced significant challenges and have often been overlooked in the decision-making processes that affect their lives and livelihoods.

v  We assert that the most effective means of achieving this inclusion is by granting the FCT state status, similar to the other 36 states in the federation. This change would empower the Abuja original inhabitants and residents of the FCT, allowing them to have greater control over their governance and resources. It would also ensure that their voices are heard and that their unique needs and challenges are addressed in a manner that is equitable and just.

Finally, as we reflect on the significance of social justice, it is crucial for the Nigerian government to recognise its role in fostering an equitable society. By prioritising the allocation of resources to essential sectors and ensuring that the needs of the disadvantaged are central to policy decisions, Nigeria can move towards a more just and inclusive future for all its citizens. The time for action is now, and the commitment to social justice must be unwavering.