Unemployment Crisis Prevents Nigerian Youth from Marrying

Cardinal John Onaiyekan, the Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, expressed concerns about the high unemployment rate in Nigeria during an interview on Frontline, a current affairs program on Eagle 102.5 FM, Ilese-Ijebu, Ogun State. He noted that many young Nigerians, despite holding university degrees, are unable to find jobs, which has led them to abandon thoughts of marriage and family planning.

Onaiyekan criticized the government for focusing on economic statistics, such as GDP and World Bank figures, instead of the actual welfare of citizens. He stated, “If we admit that the role of government is the welfare of citizens, then it means we are not going to judge the success of our government on the basis of the statistics.” He warned that the ongoing frustration among unemployed youths could have serious implications if not addressed and urged the government to demonstrate political will by governing with honesty, fairness, and justice.