As Nigeria Dives Down The Global Happiness Index, It’s Obvious More Nigerians Are Becoming Unhappier

There is no denying the fact that Nigerians were once collective ranked to be one of the happiest people in the world ostensibly for Nigeria’s vibrant culture and their resilience, but unfortunately, such ranking may not be witnessed again as they seem not to be as resilient and happy as they were wont to. According to the World Happiness Report, Nigeria ranked as the 102nd happiest nation in the world out of 143 countries. This marks a drop from previous years, where it was positioned higher on the scale of global contentment. The report, which takes into account factors such as economic and social data, personal freedom, and levels of corruption, reflects a concerning trend for the nation.

As gathered, the decline in happiness can be attributed to a variety of complex factors, including economic challenges, governance issues, and rising spate of insecurity. As the country grapples with these difficulties, the impact on the well-being and happiness of Nigerians becomes increasingly evident.

Given the fact that Nigeria has been experiencing a decline or rather a drop in its happiness ranking, it will not be a misnomer in this context to conjecture that the factors affecting happiness in Nigeria are multifaceted and include a range of socio-economic, health, demographic, and political elements.

Specifically, Nigeria's economic instability, characterized by high inflation rates, unemployment, and poverty, significantly impacts the overall happiness of not a few Nigerians, coupled with the prevailing limited access to quality healthcare and the prevalence of diseases which also play a role in shaping the well-being of Nigerians.

At this juncture, it is germane to recall that once upon a time that Nigeria stood proudly as the country with the happiest people in the world. In 2003, the World Values Survey crowned Nigeria with this enviable title, reflecting a nation brimming with optimism and communal harmony. Fast forward to today, and the picture is starkly different. Nigeria has experienced a significant drop in the World Happiness Index, now ranking 102nd. This decline is not just a number; it represents the palpable shift in the mood and spirit of the Nigerian people.

The causes of this descent are multifaceted, deeply rooted in the socio-economic and political fabric of the nation. The recent years have seen Nigeria grapple with a myriad of challenges that have undoubtedly impacted the collective well-being of its citizens.

Without any scintilla of hyperbole, the Nigerian economy has faced turbulent times, with a weakening currency and inflation eroding the purchasing power of the average Nigerian. Unemployment rates have soared, leaving many, especially the youth, in a state of limbo and despair. The economic downturn has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has doubled the number of citizens experiencing hunger.

In fact, Nigeria’ poor ranking can no doubt be understood, particularly from the prism of rising concerns on insecurityof the people across the country. Against the foregoing backdrop, it is expedient to opine that from the horrors of Boko Haram to the menace of banditry and kidnapping in the northwest, the sense of safety has been severely compromised, and this state of anxiety and fear is enough to make the people not to be happy.

In a similar vein, looking at the issue from the perspective of governance and Corruption, there is no mistaken the fact that corruption has remained a persistent thorn in Nigeria's flesh, with public funds often diverted away from much-needed development projects. Thus, poor policy implementation and a lack of transparency have led to a disillusionment with the political process, as citizens feel their voices and votes do not translate into tangible change.

Without a doubt, the fabric of Nigerian society, once tightly knit by communal bonds, has been stretched thin. Social support in times of trouble, a key factor in the happiness rankings, has waned as economic hardships force individuals to focus on personal survival rather than community well-being.

In conclusion, Nigeria's fall from grace in the happiness rankings is a reflection of deeper societal issues that need urgent attention. It is a call to action for leaders and citizens alike to address these challenges head-on, to restore the nation to its former glory as a place where happiness and hope thrive. Only through concerted efforts to improve governance, bolster the economy, ensure security, and strengthen social bonds can Nigeria hope to climb back up the ladder of the World Happiness Index and, more importantly, reignite the joy and optimism that once defined its people.

Given the foregoing situation, it is germane to opine that as Nigeria dives down the global happiness index that it is obvious that more Nigerians are becoming unhappier.