A Call for Economic Rethink in Nigeria

By Baba Yunus Muhammad

Nigeria stands at a critical crossroads as the nation witnesses an unprecedented wave of protests. Hundreds of thousands of citizens, particularly, the youth have taken to the streets in major cities such as Abuja and Lagos, voicing their frustrations over severe economic hardship and rampant insecurity. These protests, which began last Thursday, 1st August, 2024 are a direct consequence of the economic policies implemented by President Ahmad Tinubu’s administration, heavily influenced by the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

At no other time in modern Nigerian economic history has it witnessed such a deliberate and orchestrated dismantling of economic capacity. The monetarist economic policies pursued by the Tinubu administration over the past one and a half years have led to an enormous destruction of Nigeria’s economic potential and a waste of its human and material resources. These policies, influenced by Western monetarist ideologies, have not only stifled growth but also exacerbated poverty and inequality, leaving the majority of Nigerians struggling to make ends meet.

The IMF and World Bank’s economic prescriptions have long been criticized for their one-size-fits-all approach, which often ignores the unique socio-economic contexts of the countries they aim to assist. In Nigeria, these policies have resulted in austerity measures that cut public spending, increase taxes and import tariff, and removal of subsidies on petroleum and agricutural products, all of which disproportionately affect the poor and vulnerable populations. The resulting economic strain has led to a surge in unemployment, unprecedented rise in the cost of living, and an overall decline in the quality of life.

Moreover, the social and political consequences of these policies are deeply troubling. The growing discontent among the populace is not just about economic hardship; it is also about a perceived erosion of sovereignty and control over the nation’s economic future. The continued application of these policies risks further destabilizing an already fragile political landscape, potentially leading to increased civil unrest and a breakdown in social cohesion.

Examining other African countries currently under the IMF’s economic treatment provides a stark warning. Kenya and Ghana for example, has experienced significant social and political turmoil as a result of austerity measures imposed by the IMF. In Kenya, these measures have led to tax increases, severe cuts in public sector jobs and social services, resulting in widespread protests and a deteriorating social fabric. Ghana, similarly, has faced economic instability and public outcry over the rising cost of living and lack of economic opportunities.

It is imperative for Nigeria to consider alternative economic paradigms that prioritize the well-being of its citizens over the dictates of international financial institutions. One such alternative is the interest-free paradigm of economic development. This model, rooted in Islamic economic principles, emphasizes risk-sharing, social equity, and the prohibition of interest (riba), which is seen as exploitative. Adopting such a framework could provide a more holistic and sustainable approach to economic development, one that aligns with the cultural and ethical values of the Nigerian people.

The interest-free economic model advocates for profit-and-loss sharing mechanisms, ethical investment, and social justice. By focusing on these principles, Nigeria could foster an economic environment that encourages entrepreneurship, reduces inequality, and promotes social welfare. Countries like Malaysia and Indonesia have successfully integrated Islamic finance into their economic systems, leading to robust economic growth and social development.

The evidence is clear: the current economic policies endorsed by the IMF and World Bank are failing the Nigerian people. The ongoing protests serve as a powerful reminder that the status quo is no longer acceptable. There is therefore, an urgent need to review and rethink these Western-inspired monetarist policies. Nigeria must explore and adopt alternative economic models that are more attuned to its unique socio-economic realities. Only then can the nation hope to achieve sustainable development, social justice, and long-term stability. The time for change is now, and the voices of the Nigerian people must be heard!