Press Release
November 29, 2024.
The Society for the Welfare of Unemployed Youths of Nigeria (SWUYN) expresses its concern regarding the recent declaration of Nigeria’s GDP increase to 3.48%. Although this may appear to be a favorable development, we cannot conceal our profound disappointment that this growth has not led to any significant enhancement in the everyday lives of struggling Nigerians, particularly the unemployed.
Raw numbers and statistics fail to capture the grim human conditions on the ground. The claimed growth has not reached the most disadvantaged sectors of our society, leaving many Nigerians in a state of severe poverty.
As an organization dedicated to the welfare of unemployed youths, we find it troubling that government economic strategies have not produced substantial advantages for our members or the wider community of underprivileged Nigerians.
While the government may be rejoicing in this economic advancement, the situation reflects a contrasting narrative. Despite the reported economic progress, the prices of essential items such as food and transportation continue to soar, making them unaffordable for many. The unemployment figure remains alarming, with 63% of youths either underemployed or out of work.
We implore the government to move beyond mere statistics and consider the real human consequences of their policies. An increase in GDP may signal heightened economic activity, but it does not equate to the welfare of the Nigerian populace. The unemployed youths and those in vulnerable situations require more than superficial economic growth; we demand an improved quality of life for all Nigerians.
As SWUYN, we will persist in our efforts to advocate for policies that give precedence to the needs of the most at-risk community members, including the jobless and impoverished. There is a pressing need for policies that emphasize job creation, skill enhancement, and social welfare initiatives that address the needs of our society’s most vulnerable individuals. The government must intensify its efforts and strive for better outcomes.
