By

Patrick Ngwaogu (Odogwu)

 

As Nigeria enters 2025, the expectations of its citizens from the Federal Government remain high and multifaceted. With pressing challenges such as insecurity, economic instability, unemployment, and inadequate infrastructure, Nigerians are looking to the government for decisive action and people-centered policies. The country, often referred to as the “Giant of Africa,” carries the aspirations of over 200 million citizens, who yearn for improved living standards, national unity, and economic progress.

In this article, we delve into the key expectations Nigerians have for the Federal Government in 2025, touching on governance, securi/ty, economic reforms, education, healthcare, and more.

1. Improved Security Across the Nation

Addressing Insecurity

Insecurity remains one of Nigeria’s most significant challenges. Issues such as banditry, insurgency, kidnapping, and communal clashes continue to plague various regions of the country. Nigerians expect the Federal Government to adopt a comprehensive and proactive approach to combat these threats. This includes:

• Strengthening Security Forces: Nigerians expect more recruitment, training, and equipping of security personnel, including the military, police, and civil defense.

• Modern Technology: The use of drones, surveillance equipment, and artificial intelligence in tracking criminal activities is increasingly seen as non-negotiable.

• Community Policing: Many citizens advocate for more community-based policing systems, empowering local communities to collaborate with security agencies to tackle crime effectively.

• Resolution of Conflicts: In areas like the North-East and North-West, people anticipate negotiations, reconciliation, and rehabilitation programs for those willing to renounce violence.

By focusing on both preventive and reactive measures, the government can restore confidence in its ability to safeguard lives and property.

2. Economic Reforms for Inclusive Growth

Nigeria’s economy is at the heart of its people’s expectations. With high inflation, a rising cost of living, and a weakening naira, citizens are eager for reforms that can stabilize the economy and create wealth.

Diversification Beyond Oil

Although Nigeria remains a major oil producer, the volatility of global oil prices underscores the urgent need for economic diversification. Nigerians expect significant investments in sectors such as:

• Agriculture: Boosting food production and creating jobs through mechanized farming and access to credit for small-scale farmers.

• Technology and Innovation: Encouraging startups, digital skills training, and innovation hubs to make Nigeria a tech leader in Africa.

• Manufacturing: Reviving industries to reduce reliance on imports and create employment opportunities.

Job Creation and Youth Empowerment

With youth unemployment at alarming levels, Nigerians are calling for more robust job creation strategies. Programs such as skills acquisition, entrepreneurship support, and public works initiatives must be expanded. Additionally, the government needs to work with private sector partners to attract investments that can absorb the growing workforce.

3. Strengthened Governance and Accountability

Good governance is critical for meeting the needs of Nigerians. In 2025, citizens expect more transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in government processes.

Fighting Corruption

Corruption has long undermined Nigeria’s development. Nigerians anticipate:

• Strengthened Anti-Corruption Agencies: Organizations like the EFCC and ICPC must be empowered to investigate and prosecute corruption cases effectively, regardless of political affiliations.

• Transparent Budgeting: Citizens demand better accountability in how public funds are allocated and spent. The introduction of digital tools for tracking government projects would improve transparency.

Improved Public Service Delivery

The Federal Government is expected to enhance public service delivery, ensuring that citizens have easy access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and housing. Reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks and leveraging technology will be key to achieving this goal.

4. Infrastructure Development

Nigeria’s infrastructure deficit continues to hamper economic growth and the quality of life. Nigerians are keen to see accelerated infrastructure projects in areas such as:

Transportation

The completion and expansion of road networks, railways, and airports remain priorities for citizens. Projects like the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, the Abuja-Kano Rail Line, and the Port Harcourt-Maiduguri Railway are eagerly anticipated to enhance connectivity and ease the movement of goods and people.

Electricity

Unstable power supply has long been a bottleneck for Nigeria’s growth. In 2025, citizens expect the government to resolve the challenges of generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity. Expanding renewable energy solutions, such as solar and wind power, is also seen as a critical step forward.

Urban Development

In rapidly growing cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Kano, urban planning and the provision of affordable housing are urgent. Nigerians want policies that address overcrowding, slum development, and inadequate public amenities.

5. Quality and Accessible Education

Education is a vital pillar for national development, yet it continues to face challenges such as underfunding, strikes, and poor infrastructure. Nigerians expect:

• Increased Funding: Adequate budgetary allocation to education at all levels, in line with UNESCO’s recommendation of at least 15-20% of the national budget.

• End to ASUU Strikes: Citizens are frustrated with the recurring strikes in public universities, which disrupt academic calendars. A long-term resolution of disputes between the Federal Government and academic unions is critical.

• Vocational Training: Greater emphasis on vocational education to equip youths with practical skills for the labor market.

• Technology in Education: The integration of digital tools, such as online learning platforms and e-libraries, to enhance learning outcomes and bridge educational gaps.

6. Improved Healthcare System

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the vulnerabilities of Nigeria’s healthcare system. In 2025, Nigerians are looking for bold reforms to make healthcare more accessible, affordable, and efficient.

Primary Healthcare

Strengthening primary healthcare centers across the country is essential to ensuring that citizens in rural areas have access to basic medical services.

Health Insurance

The expansion of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) is crucial to reducing out-of-pocket expenses for medical care. Citizens expect broader coverage and better services under the scheme.

Medical Workforce

Retaining skilled healthcare workers remains a challenge as many professionals seek better opportunities abroad. The Federal Government must improve working conditions and remuneration for medical personnel to curb brain drain.

7. Tackling Poverty and Social Inequality

Despite Nigeria’s abundant resources, poverty levels remain high. Nigerians anticipate stronger social protection programs to reduce inequality and provide support for vulnerable populations.

Social Welfare

Programs like the National Social Investment Program (NSIP) must be expanded to include more Nigerians. Initiatives such as conditional cash transfers, school feeding programs, and small business grants are critical in lifting people out of poverty.

 

Women and Youth Empowerment

 

Nigerians expect the government to prioritize gender equality and youth inclusion in governance. Policies that provide access to education, credit, and leadership opportunities for women and young people will foster greater socio-economic progress.

 

8. Environmental Sustainability and Climate Action

 

As climate change continues to affect Nigeria, citizens are becoming more conscious of environmental sustainability. The Federal Government is expected to:

 

• Address Desertification and Flooding: Implement policies to combat desertification in the North and manage flooding in vulnerable areas.

• Promote Renewable Energy: Invest in renewable energy projects to reduce carbon emissions and reliance on fossil fuels.

• Enforce Environmental Laws: Tackle illegal mining, deforestation, and pollution to protect Nigeria’s natural resources for future generations.

 

9. National Unity and Social Cohesion

 

The Federal Government must address the ethnic and religious divides that threaten Nigeria’s unity. Citizens expect:

 

• Inclusive Leadership: Appointments and policies that reflect the diversity of Nigeria’s population.

• Conflict Resolution: Mediation efforts to resolve communal and inter-ethnic conflicts peacefully.

• Civic Education: Campaigns that promote national unity, tolerance, and the values of diversity.

 

10. Foreign Policy and International Relations

 

Nigerians expect the government to strengthen the country’s standing on the global stage. This includes:

 

• Improving Bilateral Ties: Strengthening economic and security partnerships with other nations.

• Protecting Citizens Abroad: Ensuring the rights and welfare of Nigerians in the diaspora.

• Attracting Foreign Investment: Creating an investor-friendly environment to bring in capital for critical sectors of the economy.

As Nigeria navigates 2025, the Federal Government must rise to the occasion to meet the expectations of its citizens. From tackling insecurity and revitalizing the economy to improving healthcare and fostering national unity, the government’s performance will shape the nation’s trajectory. Nigerians are watching closely, hopeful that their aspirations will translate into tangible progress.

 

By prioritizing transparency, inclusivity, and strategic planning, the Federal Government can deliver on its promises and fulfill the dreams of millions of Nigerians seeking a brighter future.