By Prof Mannixs Paul

With every new administration, a wave of innovative ideas promise progress. However, it is crucial to tread carefully and implement these ideas gradually to avoid any adverse effects. This is especially important for citizens at home and in the diaspora, who are already grappling with high living expenses. We don’t want a scenario where Nigerians have to spend money to obtain money for their daily survival due to unfavourable policies, lack of governance, and poor implementation caused by an unpatriotic cultural orientation in society.

In Nigeria, the transition from the Bank Verification Number (BVN) to the National Identity Management (NIM) is still underway for many. The proposal for a new enhanced National Identification Number (NIN) raises concerns in this context. As per recent publications, the enhanced NIN will combine a person’s photograph with their existing NIN.

However, given Nigeria’s level of development and the importance of confidentiality and data protection, a cautious and thoughtful approach is warranted.

Corruption is rampant in Nigeria, and instability is a problem. The government should not rely solely on the NIN to prevent fraud. We must learn from past mistakes and understand that innovation has consequences, so we must allow the process to refine itself. It is well-known that gaining trust and maintaining integrity is difficult in Nigeria, regardless of the level of operations. Such makes it challenging for anti-corruption agencies to perform effectively. More than that, a central database is essential, but more is needed as a nation’s primary data source; it must also be managed carefully.

It is essential to consider the challenges of implementing a new system that combines a person’s photograph and their existing National Identification Number (NIN) in Nigeria. The fight against fraud is ongoing, and it’s fundamental to avoid adding additional challenges and expenses for citizens without creating anticipated security benefits. Therefore, it’s necessary to adopt the existing system, which separates the individual photo and NIN acquired from two independent organizations.

Leaders are responsible for thoroughly evaluating the potential impact of any new initiative on all individuals affected, particularly those who may be most vulnerable. True progress can only be achieved if the change improves the existing situation. A new administration may introduce new and innovative ideas for progress.

Many Nigerian leaders need to grasp the transient nature of their positions, oblivious to the inevitable day of accountability that awaits them. Whether in their lifetime or through the annals of history, they will be judged. Therefore, caution must prevail when one assumes a leadership role. True fulfilment in life transcends mere accumulation of personal wealth; rather, it lies in leaving behind a lasting legacy of service to one’s community and humanity.

The rampant greed that plagues the African continent is a crisis that cannot be ignored. Year after year, we witness the reckless squandering of resources that should be preserved for future generations, and the consequences are devastating. This is a call to action for all of us to address this issue urgently.

The perpetuation of societal ills such as abuse of authority, misappropriation of public trust, embezzlement, fraud, and corruption is a direct result of individuals prioritizing personal gain over the welfare of society. In such a scenario, the voices of reason are often silenced, leaving the powerless citizens with no recourse. It is up to us, the citizens, to stand up and demand accountability. A community of individuals who lack awareness of their rights and cannot protect them due to insufficient justice systems is destined to endure significant hardships. Simultaneously, poverty is a tool of domination wielded by the wealthier class or imprudent societal leaders.

Every day, African children cry out for divine intervention, yearning for a future where equity, justice, and fairness prevail. Many echo this prayer as they lift their eyes to the heavens in hope. May God guide us toward that day of transformation. Amen.

Professor Mannixs E. Paul, wrote in from New York, United States of America, USA, and he is a Nigerian, and highly regarded Scholar-Practitioner, holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Organization and Management specializing in General Business from an accredited institution in the United States of America.