‘Everything in Nigeria looks like it stopped in 1980’ – Financial expert

Financial expert Kalu Aja has harshly critiqued Nigeria's state of infrastructure and public services, stating the country appears to have stagnated since 1980. Aja highlighted visible indicators of poverty, such as dilapidated buildings, outdated vehicles, underdeveloped public transportation, and the absence of recreational areas.

He noted that many structures remain unpainted and poorly maintained, signifying the economic struggles faced by the populace. Aja expressed particular concern over the quality of vehicles on Nigerian roads, stating that he rarely encounters new cars except those belonging to government officials. He also criticized public transportation, dominated by old minibuses and tricycles, which often lack air conditioning.

The expert also faulted the poor landscaping, overgrown lawns, inadequate urban planning, and the lack of public parks, libraries, and swimming pools. Additionally, Aja accused some police officers of requesting gifts from citizens, while the number of vehicles on the roads seemed to be dwindling due to the soaring fuel prices. "Zero landscaping, wild grass everywhere.

Police asking for gifts. Zero zoning. No public parks, libraries or pools. Fall in cars on the road, no one can afford gas. Everything looks like it stopped in 1980," he concluded. Aja's remarks come amidst ongoing public grievances over the rising cost of living, increasing transportation expenses, and the deteriorating state of public infrastructure in Nigeria.