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NIGERIA AND THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: A HISTORICAL ANALYSIS OF LEADERSHIP, POLITICS AND THE ECONOMY

Prior to the current pandemic, Nigeria has witnessed the emergence of other viruses which were contained. Science is yet to proffer complete solution to this new wave of virus known as Covid-19, and the magnitude on other aspects of life is far reaching. Despite negative predictions and a wobbling health sector, the number of casualties due to the pandemic has been relatively low. Researchers are researching to find a vaccine to the virus which has culminated in the death of thousands all over the world. This study attempts to examine issues related to leadership, politics and economic policy within the context of the pandemic. The paper argues that one major problem Nigeria grapples with is leadership deficit which inevitably has affected our disposition and response to emergencies. The aforementioned can be adduced to failure of leadership to invest heavily in the health sector over the years, which is the sole responsibility of government. The study also examined the politics involved in the Covid-19 and how the economy has been affected thus far. It stressed the need for leaders to prioritize transparency and accountability while there should be a clear demarcation between politics and reality. It also buttresses the need for speedy economic reforms.