A former Director of the Research Department at the Central Bank of Nigeria, Dr. Titus Okunrounmu, has highlighted the pressing need for the Federal Government to intensify job creation efforts in 2024 as a pivotal strategy to alleviate the country’s escalating security challenges.
In an exclusive interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Ota, Ogun on Tuesday, Okunrounmu asserted that the intertwined issues of insecurity and unemployment are a significant concern.
He emphasized the direct correlation between the two, stating, “Insecurity and unemployment are two sides of the same coin. An idle hand is the devil’s workshop.”
According to the seasoned economist, the surge in unemployment inevitably contributes to a surge in security problems.
He pointed out that the rising unemployment rates in the country exacerbate prevalent issues such as kidnappings, banditry, and farmer-herder crises.
Okunrounmu appealed to the government to leverage the agricultural sector’s potential by utilizing fertile lands and modern equipment for extensive farming. He believes this approach could create substantial employment opportunities for the youth, diverting them from engaging in social vices.
He stated, “The country could respond to God’s grace by farming and constant heavy rain to solve some of the current problems in the country.”
Furthermore, he highlighted the resources and population of Nigeria as potential assets that, if properly harnessed, could prevent unnecessary suffering among the populace.
Okunrounmu urged policymakers to consider these factors, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures to address the nation’s unemployment and security challenges.
”The country could respond to God’s grace by farming and constant heavy rain to solve some of the current problems in the country.
“In addition, God has given us all these resources and population so that Nigerians would not suffer, ” he said.
