In the first part of this article, we established the fundamental principles of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and the pivotal role the adoption and adaptation of physiological needs play in galvanizing growth and development. To reassert her position as a giant of Africa and join the comity of developed states, Nigeria, as a matter of urgency, must prioritise the physiological needs of her citizens. There are several policy formulations and implementation examples from several countries that can serve as a guide.
The United States of America, for instance, relied heavily on policies aligned with Maslow’s theory to ameliorate the dire negative impacts of the 1929 recession. Some of these policy thrusts include:
Promotion of Food Security: The Agricultural Adjustment Act (AAA) aimed to address agricultural overproduction by paying farmers to reduce their crop acreage, stabilizing food prices and income. The government also distributed surplus food to those in need through massive Food Distribution Programmes.
Housing and Shelter: The Public Works Administration (PWA) funded public works projects, including infrastructure and housing, to create jobs and address the housing shortage. The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) insured home mortgages, making it easier for Americans to purchase homes.
Similarly, Singapore’s transformation from a third-world to a first-world country typifies the crucial role of adopting and adapting Maslow’s principles in development. Singapore prioritised education, investing heavily in schools, universities, and vocational training, and encouraged the development of a highly skilled workforce. Strategic urban planning and investment in infrastructure followed, leading to remarkable transformation.
Other countries that have achieved development through the adoption and adaptation of Maslow’s physiological needs include:
South Korea’s economic miracle was driven by a focus on education, infrastructure development, and industrialization exemplified the great role. The government invested heavily in education, leading to a highly skilled workforce and implemented policies to promote economic growth and development.
China’s rapid economic growth was fueled by a focus on infrastructure development, industrialisation, and poverty reduction provides a veritable example. The government invested heavily in infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and public transportation, and implemented policies to promote economic growth and development.
These examples demonstrate the importance of prioritising physiological needs in driving development. By adopting and adapting Maslow’s principles, Nigeria can achieve a quantum leap in her development trajectory. As a lawmaker, I believe that Nigeria and Abia State, in particular, can benefit from this approach. It was this realisation that prompted my engagement in strategic areas such as education, agriculture, and infrastructural development .
By prioritising the physiological needs of her citizens, Nigeria can unlock her full potential and join the comity of developed nations.
Hon. IBEKWE Nnamdi Chimdi
Lawmaker representing Bende North Constituency, Abia State, Nigeria