Reality TV personality and media influencer, Anita Natacha Akide, popularly known as Tacha, has sparked online conversation after sharply criticising Nigerian youths for what she describes as their apathy towards the nation’s development.
In a strongly worded post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Tacha expressed her deep disappointment with the current generation, describing them as “cowardly” and unwilling to make sacrifices for the country’s progress.
She contrasted today’s youth with earlier generations who, she said, risked their lives fighting for political and social change.
According to her, the priorities of many young Nigerians today are misplaced. She argued that rather than participating in national discourse, contributing to governance, or standing up for social justice, many are more interested in seeking visas to leave the country, creating online content, and chasing popularity on social media.
“Listen,” she wrote, “my generation of Nigerians are the dumbest and most cowardly. Funny how we blame the ones before us for ruining Nigeria. Ex-President Buhari, in his 20s, was part of a coup, fighting for what he believed in. What are today’s 20-year-olds up to? Japa (a slang for fleeing the country).”
She continued, “Believe me when I say, we’ve not just failed the next generation, we’ve buried it.”
Tacha’s post has since drawn mixed reactions across social media. While some supported her blunt critique, others argued that the challenges facing young Nigerians are more complex and go beyond a lack of courage or patriotism.
Tacha maintains ground
Still, Tacha stood her ground, noting that she was not targeting individuals but addressing a widespread issue. “This tweet is not about me or anyone in particular,” she clarified. “It’s about a whole generation that is too afraid to prioritise the nation’s interest over their comfort.”
She also responded to critics who questioned her contributions to national development. “Y’all ask, ‘what have you done?’ I’ve used my voice. I speak, I show up, I refuse to be quiet,” she wrote.
Tacha’s comments reflect a growing tension in the national conversation about youth responsibility, civic engagement, and the direction of Nigeria’s future. While it is true that many young Nigerians are vocal on social media, actively participating in movements like #EndSARS, critics say that digital engagement is not always followed by consistent action on the ground.
By referencing historical figures such as former military leaders who took bold, though controversial actions in their youth, Tacha appears to call for a more fearless and committed generation. However, many observers argue that Nigeria’s political and economic landscape today presents a different kind of struggle, one where survival often takes precedence over activism.
In response to her tweet, several young Nigerians pushed back, highlighting the harsh realities they face from unemployment to insecurity, which they claim make it difficult to focus on patriotism when basic needs remain unmet.
Nevertheless, Tacha’s remarks have reignited debate on the role of youth in national development and what it means to be patriotic in the current socio-economic climate.
Her post comes at a time when many young Nigerians are increasingly looking for opportunities abroad, citing a lack of trust in leadership, poor governance, and limited prospects at home. The trend, known as Japa, has become a popular escape route for many skilled professionals and students.
Despite the backlash, Tacha’s comments have forced a moment of introspection. Whether or not one agrees with her approach, her message touches on a crucial question: what role should today’s youth play in shaping Nigeria’s future, and are they doing enough?
As the conversation continues, one thing is clear: the younger generation remains at the heart of Nigeria’s hope for change. Whether through activism, innovation, or civic participation, the choices they make today will shape the nation’s tomorrow.
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