Nigeria's pursuit of a balanced approach to development faces challenges, highlighted by recent statements from the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, regarding an oversupply of social science graduates. Speaking at a certificate handover ceremony in Abuja, Alausa stated President Bola Tinubu's administration aims for universities to produce problem-solving graduates capable of contributing to nation-building. He emphasized the need for graduates with life skills who can drive industries, build infrastructure, and improve lives, asserting that Nigeria already has a surplus of social science graduates.

However, this view is contested by many who argue that Nigeria's development hinges on effectively utilizing its human and material resources. The Social Science Academy of Nigeria (SSAN), through its president Professor Chike Okorocha, criticized the minister’s remarks as undermining the Universities Autonomy Law and displaying “anti-intellectualism.” The SSAN argues that the minister's position lacks factual basis, particularly regarding the actual number of social science graduates needed in the country. They emphasize that social sciences emerged to address social problems arising from major historical events and that these problems have only intensified in the 21st century.

The SSAN highlighted Nigeria's current struggles with poverty, social exclusion, economic instability, underdevelopment, insecurity, and various forms of inequality, asserting that social sciences are crucial for tackling these issues. They argue that a nation cannot achieve sustainable development and security without social scientific and humanistic inquiry into its values and socio-economic relations, thus requiring more, not fewer, social scientists.

While the minister’s statement may align with the global emphasis on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), to boost economies, it is crucial to avoid neglecting the importance of social sciences. It is essential to investigate why there is a perceived “saturation” of social science graduates and address the root causes, such as the failure to tailor courses to meet manpower needs. Development plans have not adequately considered the balance between science, technology, and social sciences, nor have curricula been reformed to include practical, digital, and entrepreneurial skills.

The Daily Trust aligns with the SSAN's assertions, noting the minister's failure to justify his statement or explain why Nigeria no longer needs these graduates. The minister’s statement contradicts the government's decision to reintroduce history in secondary schools. The article recalls a similar claim by a former Minister of Labour, Dr. Chris Ngige, regarding the sufficiency of doctors in Nigeria, pointing out that development models require input from all societal segments and are based on comprehensive research.

Nigeria’s inability to resolve issues like boundary disputes and farmer-herder clashes is attributed to a failure to apply historical and sociological perspectives. The Daily Trust urges the federal and state governments to overhaul the educational curriculum to align with modern realities, ensuring graduates can apply their knowledge in society. Courses must be designed to be multi-tasking and impactful.

As a first step, vocational education should be strengthened at the secondary level to foster an appreciation for hands-on tasks and practical application of knowledge. The government must provide opportunities for fresh graduates to work in the public or private sector, enabling sociologists to contribute to solving social problems. Nigeria needs to leverage the talents of all its citizens to achieve comprehensive development.