CARDINAL ONAIYEKAN: MANY NIGERIAN YOUTHS CAN’T EVEN THINK OF MARRIAGE BECAUSE THEY ARE JOBLESS

Catholic cleric, Cardinal John Onaiyekan, has expressed concern over the growing economic challenges facing young Nigerians, stating that widespread unemployment has made marriage an unrealistic goal for many.

Speaking on the state of the nation, the respected cleric said a large number of Nigerian youths are unable to consider settling down because they lack stable jobs and financial security. According to him, the harsh economic reality has forced many young people to postpone marriage as they struggle to meet their basic needs.

Onaiyekan stressed that employment and economic stability are crucial to helping young Nigerians build families and contribute meaningfully to society. He urged leaders and policymakers to prioritise job creation and implement policies that improve the living conditions of citizens, particularly the youth.

His remarks have since sparked conversations on social media, with many Nigerians agreeing that the rising cost of living, unemployment and economic uncertainty have significantly affected marriage plans for many young adults. Others, however, argued that while financial stability is important, marriage should not be determined solely by one’s economic status.

The comments add to the ongoing national discourse on the impact of Nigeria’s economic challenges on family life, youth development and the future of the country’s workforce.