By Erewunmi Peace

A former Chief of Defence Staff, Admiral Ola Sa’ad Ibrahim (retd.), has stated that Nigerians who live in the country for an extended period may find it difficult to describe the nation as prosperous, despite its abundant natural and human resources.

Admiral Ibrahim made the remark while speaking at a public event in Abuja, where he addressed issues bordering on national security, governance, and citizens’ welfare. According to him, the daily realities faced by many Nigerians do not reflect the image of a prosperous nation.

He explained that while Nigeria is often perceived internationally as a wealthy country due to its population size and resource endowment, many citizens continue to struggle with economic hardship, insecurity, and weak infrastructure.

The retired naval officer linked some of the country’s security challenges to socio-economic conditions, noting that poverty, unemployment, and poor border control contribute significantly to instability.

He stressed that prosperity should not only be measured by national statistics but by the quality of life experienced by ordinary citizens.

Admiral Ibrahim also called for stronger institutions and more effective policies to address insecurity and improve living standards across the country. He urged leaders to focus on long-term solutions that would translate Nigeria’s potential into real benefits for the population.

His comments have since sparked discussions on governance, development, and the gap between Nigeria’s perceived wealth and the lived experience of its people.