Town Hall on Cost of Living: Experts Call for Accountability, Civic Responsibility and Better Governance

A continued session of The Briefing Room Town Hall shifted from identifying Nigeria's economic problems to discussing practical solutions, as participants emphasized accountability, civic responsibility, better governance and long-term policy implementation as key to addressing the country's worsening cost-of-living crisis.

The discussion followed emotional testimonies from ordinary Nigerians who described the impact of rising food prices, transportation costs, housing expenses, insecurity and declining purchasing power.

One participant questioned how Nigerians could realistically be expected to "change their mindset" when millions remain unaware of the root causes of the country's economic challenges.

Responding, another contributor introduced himself as "a proud Nigerian" and expressed optimism that the country could overcome its current difficulties through honest dialogue and collective action.

"I still believe Nigeria will definitely come out of these challenges. Conversations like this bring us closer to accepting that we have a problem, and it is Nigerians who will ultimately solve it," he said.

The speaker argued that recent government policies, while intended as economic reforms, have created significant hardship because they were not accompanied by adequate planning or measures to cushion their effects on ordinary citizens.

He maintained that issues affecting housing, transportation, business operations, insecurity and family welfare demonstrate the need for a more people-centred approach to governance.

According to him, government must place greater emphasis on citizens' welfare, noting that protecting the well-being of Nigerians remains one of the primary responsibilities of the state.

A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the need for greater accountability at every level of society.

The participant argued that Nigeria's development is often hindered because both leaders and citizens resist being held accountable for their actions.

"We shy away from accountability. Whenever people ask questions, many become defensive instead of providing answers," he observed.

He stressed that building a culture of accountability would strengthen public institutions and improve governance.

The contributor also criticized the removal of fuel subsidy without sufficient social protections, describing the policy as unfair to ordinary Nigerians.

According to him, many countries still provide some form of government support or subsidy for essential services, particularly where such interventions help protect vulnerable citizens from economic shocks.

He argued that reforms should be accompanied by efficient public services and targeted support for low-income households.

Participants also emphasized the importance of educating citizens, particularly young people, about civic responsibility and democratic participation.

The speaker called for greater public awareness to encourage Nigerians to ask informed questions about governance and public policy rather than remaining passive observers.

He stressed that meaningful national development requires citizens who understand both their rights and responsibilities.

During the interactive session, audience members also discussed the importance of personal financial management amid the current economic realities.

One participant noted that many people struggle because their lifestyles are not aligned with their income levels and personal values.

According to the contributor, adjusting spending habits, budgeting carefully and living within one's means have become increasingly necessary as households grapple with rising inflation and declining purchasing power.

While acknowledging the seriousness of Nigeria's economic challenges, participants agreed that sustainable progress would require a combination of sound government policies, transparent implementation, stronger institutions, citizen participation, and personal responsibility.

The town hall concluded with renewed calls for continued public engagement, accountability from leaders, and practical reforms capable of improving the daily lives of ordinary Nigerians facing one of the country's most challenging economic periods in recent history.