Sambisa Forest: From Insurgency Stronghold to Beacon of Progress
Nigeria stands on the brink of precipice. A critical crossroads. The Sambisa Forest, a theatre of insurgency and conflict, has consumed over $20 billion in counter-insurgency efforts in over two decades, since it reared its ugly head, with the situation only worsening. The recent revelation of NNPC’s $6 billion debt despite a $10 billion refinery maintenance expenditure, tagged, turnaround maintenance, (TAM), further underscores the nation’s systemic issues.
As a Chartered accountant, the frustration is palpable. These wasted billions represent missed opportunities to invest in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other vital sectors that could uplift the lives of Nigerians.
However, amidst this bleak reality lies a glimmer of hope. The audacious mindset of transforming Sambisa Forest into a world-class city, that can be a beehive of tourists’ visitation to the site offers a bold and innovative solution. By addressing the root causes of insecurity, creating economic opportunities, and fostering social development, this city can become a beacon of progress and prosperity.
Imagine a future where Sambisa Forest, once synonymous with fear and violence, transforms into a thriving hub of activity, generating jobs, attracting investment, serving as a tourist centre, and contributing to the nation’s economic growth. A future where communities reclaim their land, transforming it into safe and vibrant spaces that foster hope and opportunity.
While challenges like environmental concerns, security, and community engagement must be addressed, the potential benefits far outweigh the initial costs and complexities. The UAE’s transformation from a desert landscape into a global metropolis within 25 years serves as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved with vision, strategic planning, and effective execution.
Nigeria has the resources, both human, and natural capital, and the potential to embark on a similar journey. By being courageous, prioritizing transparency, accountability, and sustainable development, we can break the cycle of wasted resources and missed opportunities.
It’s time to reimagine Nigeria’s future. The antidote to darkness, is light, with massive courage, and re-channelling of the wasteful resources currently expended both in combating the crime emanating from this dungeon forest, and the attendant psychological effects on the indigenes, and the larger communities, a transformed Sambisa forest, ditto, all other massive landmasses, that have turned to hideouts to criminals, can be transformed into modern cities, creating a legacy of progress, prosperity, and hope for generations to come.