In contemporary Nigeria, a nation celebrated for its vibrant cultural heritage and resilient spirit, a troubling trend has emerged among its youth; a generation increasingly adrift in a sea of moral confusion.
The moral compass that once guided young Nigerians, rooted in traditional values, family structures, and communal ethics, appears to be faltering under the weight of modern influences.
Bonano, in his mystery while trying to query the roots of moral confusion, will contend that Nigeria’s youths, who make up over 60 per cent of the country’s population, are navigating a complex landscape shaped by rapid globalisation, technological advancements, and socioeconomic challenges. These factors, while offering opportunities, have also created a moral vacuum that many young people struggle to fill.
It is a historical fact that the Nigerian society was anchored by strong communal values, respect for elders, and a collective sense of responsibility. However, urbanisation and exposure to Western ideals have diluted these principles. The reverence for family and community is increasingly overshadowed by individualism and materialism, leaving many youths disconnected from the ethical frameworks that once defined their identity.
Bonano will express sadness that the rise of social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter has exposed Nigerian youths to global lifestyles that often glorify instant gratification, wealth, and fame, sometimes at the expense of integrity. The “get-rich-quick” mentality, amplified by celebrity culture and internet fraud, popularly known as “Yahoo Yahoo”, has normalised unethical behaviour among some youths who view such paths as viable routes to success.
Not helping matters is the Nigerian economic challenges, including a youth unemployment rate hovering around 40 per cent (according to recent estimates), which have fueled desperation. Many young people, faced with limited opportunities, resort to morally questionable activities such as cybercrime, prostitution, or political thuggery to survive. The lack of economic stability creates a fertile ground for moral compromise, as survival often trumps ethical considerations.
Ironically, while Nigeria remains a deeply religious nation, the practical application of religious teachings in daily life is waning. Moral education, once a cornerstone of upbringing in homes and schools, has been sidelined in favour of academic pursuits or survival skills. The disconnect between professed beliefs and actions has left many youths grappling with ethical dilemmas without clear guidance, and the confusion keeps getting stronger.
Bonano begins to wonder if the symptoms of this moral crisis are evident across various spheres of Nigerian society. The phenomenon of “Yahoo boys” has become a cultural blight, with many young Nigerians engaging in online scams to achieve financial success. This trend reflects a shift in values, where wealth is prioritised over integrity, and the end justifies the means.
Many youths adopt a “whatever works” mentality, where ethical standards are flexible and situational. This relativism is evident in behaviours such as exam malpractice, bribery, and casual attitudes toward corruption, which are often justified as necessary for survival in a tough system.
Interestingly, the traditional Nigerian respect for elders and authority is declining. Social media platforms are rife with instances of youths engaging in disrespectful discourse, cyberbullying, or outright defiance of societal norms, reflecting a broader erosion of civility.
The pursuit of instant gratification has led to a rise in substance abuse, reckless partying, and risky behaviours among youths. The normalisation of drug use and excessive drinking, often glamorised in music and videos, further clouds moral judgment.
Bonano will judge that the consequences of this sea of moral confusion gripping Nigeria’s youth have far-reaching implications as it undermines social cohesion, perpetuates corruption, and erodes trust in institutions. A generation that prioritises shortcuts over hard work risks stunting Nigeria’s development, as innovation and integrity are sidelined. Furthermore, the normalisation of unethical behaviour creates a vicious cycle, where young people grow into adults who perpetuate the same values in leadership and governance, further entrenching systemic issues.
Many youths, caught between societal expectations and their own moral dilemmas, experience anxiety, depression, and a sense of purposelessness. The pressure to conform to amoral trends while grappling with personal values creates an internal conflict that leaves many feeling lost.
Again, Bonano will contend that addressing the sea of moral confusion among Nigeria’s youth requires a multi-faceted approach that involves families, communities, institutions, and the government.
If we must address this sea of moral confusion, schools and religious institutions must prioritise moral education, teaching values such as integrity, empathy, and responsibility. Programs that integrate ethical decision-making into curricula can help youths navigate complex moral landscapes.
While Nigeria tries to navigate through this recovery, tackling youth unemployment through skill acquisition programs, entrepreneurship support, and job creation is critical. When young people have access to legitimate opportunities, the allure of quick, unethical gains diminishes.
Nigeria needs more visible role models who exemplify integrity and hard work. Mentorship programs that connect youths with ethical leaders in various fields can provide guidance and inspiration. While social media is a powerful tool, its negative influences must be curtailed. Campaigns promoting digital literacy and responsible online behaviour can help counter the glorification of immoral lifestyles.
The family community has a larger role in this struggle of eradicating this sea of moral confusion, as families must recommit to instilling values in children from an early age. Community-based initiatives, such as youth forums and cultural festivals, can reinforce traditional ethics while adapting them to modern realities.
Bonano will submit that Nigerian youths are at a crossroads, caught between the promise of a bright future and the perils of moral confusion. While the challenges are daunting, they are not insurmountable. By addressing the root causes of economic hardship, cultural erosion, and the unchecked influence of digital spaces, Nigeria can steer its young generation toward a path of clarity and purpose.
The nation’s future depends on a youth population grounded in integrity, resilience, and a shared commitment to the common good. It is time for all stakeholders, parents, educators, policymakers, and youths themselves to rise to the challenge and rescue Nigeria’s future from the sea of moral confusion.
