Poverty Is Not Senselessness: A Call for Caution Amidst the Struggle for Daily Bread

Recent events in Nigeria have underscored the harsh realities of poverty, with the tragic stampede during a food distribution program serving as a poignant reminder of the desperation faced by millions. While survival is a daily battle for many, it is vital to approach this struggle with caution and responsibility. Poverty, though challenging, is not synonymous with senselessness.

Millions of Nigerians live below the poverty line, trapped in a cycle of deprivation driven by inflation, unemployment, and systemic inequalities. Access to basic needs like food and clean water remains a constant challenge. Charitable food distributions offer hope, but the chaos often accompanying these events highlights the need for better organization and systemic interventions. Stampedes and similar tragedies are preventable with proper planning, emphasizing the importance of systemic changes to address root causes while ensuring immediate relief efforts are safe and effective.

The pursuit of daily bread must balance caution and order. Organizers of relief programs should collaborate with local authorities, implement crowd control measures, and communicate clearly. Beneficiaries must also adhere to guidelines, avoid overcrowding, and support localized interventions that reduce risks. Addressing immediate hunger is crucial, but eradicating poverty requires sustained efforts. Governments, private organizations, and civil society must work together to create sustainable jobs, improve social welfare, and strengthen community networks. Awareness campaigns about safety during public events can also prevent future tragedies.

"Poverty is a societal challenge demanding empathy and structured solutions. The recent stampede is a wake-up call to address immediate needs with care and pursue systemic reforms. By prioritizing life, dignity, and community, we can foster a culture of caution and compassion, proving that even amidst poverty, humanity can prevail.”

Merry Christmas Our Dear Readers

 December in Abuja brings with it the harmattan breeze and the rush of shoppers navigating through Abuja markets. Some streets light up with strings of glittering decorations, and carol melodies waft from churches and homes alike. It’s the season of cheer, but for many in Nigeria’s capital, the Christmas wishlist extends beyond the usual trappings of merriment. It reflects the times we live in – shaped by economic challenges, social realities, and collective hopes.

For some, Christmas wishes center on the essentials: “All I want for Christmas is a stable power supply.” In a city where sometimes generators could hum louder than hymns, consistent electricity feels like a luxury. Imagine celebrating Christmas without the worry of power outages interrupting your favorite holiday movies or silencing the freezer stocked with perishable ingredients for that long-awaited family feast.

Then there are the parents. For them, it might sound like, “All I want for Christmas is the school fees for January.” With the cost of education steadily rising, the joy of the season is sometimes overshadowed by the looming pressure of next term’s bills. Yet, they soldier on, choosing to focus on the laughter of their children and the warmth of togetherness.

For many small business owners, particularly those in Wuye or Utako market, the refrain could be, “All I want for Christmas is better sales.” The festive period, though bustling, doesn’t always translate into profit margins that make up for the year’s struggles. Inflation and reduced purchasing power mean that even the most dedicated customers are cutting back.

And let’s not forget the young people of Abuja – ambitious, creative, and full of dreams. Their Christmas wish? “Opportunities.” Whether it’s a good-paying job, a breakthrough in their startup, or simply access to a reliable internet connection to fuel their hustle, the youth are yearning for platforms that enable them to thrive.

Amidst these practical desires, there’s also the intangible: peace, security, and a sense of community. “All I want for Christmas is a safer neighbourhood,” some might say, as stories of insecurity cast a shadow over the holiday cheer. The wish for a peaceful celebration resonates deeply, especially for families who have been affected by the year’s challenges.

Yet, despite the hurdles, Abuja’s spirit remains unbroken. In every corner, you’ll find resilience. Friends pooling resources to organize modest yet joyous parties. Churches and wellwishers extend charity drives to the less privileged. Abuja, like Nigeria at large, knows how to celebrate even in lean times.

So, as we reflect on what we want for Christmas this year, perhaps the greatest gift we can give each other is kindness. Kindness in the form of a shared meal, a paid-up transport fare for someone short of change, or even a simple “Merry Christmas” said with genuine warmth.

Because at the heart of it, Christmas is not just about what we get, but what we give. And if Abuja’s streets are anything to go by, there’s still plenty of love, hope, and generosity to go around. May your Christmas wishes, whatever they are, come true – and may your heart find joy, no matter the season’s challenges.