Poetry Evening Reflects on Naira Crisis, Envisions Nigeria's First Female President

Nimi Wariboko, an academic and Professor of Social Ethics at Boston University, has used spoken word and commentary to reflect on Nigeria's 2023 Naira crisis, powerfully revisiting the economic difficulties of that period.

As previously reported, numerous businesses across Nigeria experienced substantial financial setbacks in the first quarter of 2023. This was largely due to a severe scarcity of naira notes, a consequence of the Central Bank of Nigeria's currency redesign initiative, which crippled daily economic activities and affected many livelihoods.

The currency redesign policy, implemented under the administration of former CBN Governor Godwin Emefiele during the tenure of former President Muhammadu Buhari, led to widespread suffering and public discontent.

Speaking at a virtual Public Talk and Poetry Evening, Wariboko not only delved into the economic challenges but also presented an optimistic and thought- provoking vision for Nigeria's future, specifically contemplating the rise of the nation's first female president.

He described how his first poem, the longest piece read, was inspired by the anticipation of Nigeria's first female president, envisioning a day of national celebration and unity when she would be sworn in. He noted that different language groups across Nigeria would be represented in their traditional attire, underscoring the poem's theme of national cohesion and diverse expression.

In his poem titled "Naira don pass Naira," Wariboko asserted that the policies enacted by Emefiele and the former Buhari government had devalued the naira significantly against international currencies. He urged Nigerians, both men and women, to pray for the nation's currency to regain its strength and stability.

The poem vividly depicted the naira's decline, questioning the actions of Buhari and Emefiele and lamenting that the currency was being used to purchase itself, losing its value and respect. It described the naira's struggle against other global currencies like the dollar and pound, and even its diminished status compared to the cedi, urging divine intervention and collective prayer for its revival.

Another poem, "Power Pass Power," conveyed Wariboko's strong conviction that Nigerians would eventually mobilize to hold public officials accountable for their failures in fulfilling their elected responsibilities.

The poem illustrated a scenario where the populace, represented by "the people," would eventually confront and overcome those in power, suggesting a future shift in authority. It metaphorically described an eventual clash where the people's strength would prevail over the officials' authority.

The event also included an interactive segment where attendees had the opportunity to recite their own poetry, contributing to a dynamic and engaging atmosphere.