Governance in Nigeria: A call for long-term vision and National unity, by Arch Baba Isimi FNIA
In Defense of Reason
The governance process in Nigeria faces significant challenges, primarily characterised by short-termism in vision and objectives, which impedes sustainable development. To propel the nation towards progress akin to the trajectories observed in Western models and China, we must identify and address a set of irreducible minimums that will catalyze growth and unity.
Defining Our National Identity and core Interest
Understanding who we are as a people is the first step toward national development. Our identity must transcend ethnic and regional divides, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose. This involves a collective dialogue to define our national interests—what binds us as Nigerians. We need to build consensus around common objectives that resonate across diverse groups, nurturing a national consciousness that prioritizes collective well-being over individual gain.
The experiences of Nigerians in the diaspora, such as Kemi Badenoch, reflect the influence of their home nations’ aspirations. These perspectives can inspire a re-evaluation of our own national goals. What do we want for Nigeria? This question must guide us as we formulate a vision that addresses the aspirations of all citizens.
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Irreducible Minimums for Development
To set Nigeria on a path of meaningful growth, we must define our irreducible minimums that will guide our National aspirations and focus on several critical areas:
1. Leadership and Vision: Effective leadership is paramount. We need leaders who can articulate a long-term vision, integrating the aspirations of both the federal and sub-national levels. This includes bringing together skilled individuals who can inspire change and implement policies that resonate with the populace. A leadership approach that emphasizes unity and shared goals is essential to bridging divides and fostering collaboration among various sectors of society.
2. Strengthening Sub-national Governance: A functional federal system relies on the efficacy of local and state governments. We must ensure that local governance operates effectively to support national objectives. This requires a deliberate focus on capacity building at the local government level, enhancing accountability, and improving service delivery.
3. Critical System Thinking: Adopting critical system thinking is essential; we must prioritize group interests over individual ones. This shift requires common mobilisation, cultivating a nationalist psyche, and reorienting citizens toward a national consciousness that emphasises collective well-being.
4. Reengineering Social and Cultural Consciousness: Governance must extend beyond the mere provision of infrastructure. It should include the reengineering and reorientation of the socio-cultural, political, and ethical consciousness of the people. Elevating the quality of enlightenment within the Nigerian space is vital; a more enlightened populace will foster a stronger sense of ownership and stewardship over shared national assets. This cultural shift is crucial to reducing the destruction and pillaging of national resources, ensuring sustainable management of our collective wealth.
5. Succession Planning: Deliberate succession planning is vital to prevent leadership vacuums and ensure continuity. The Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation has made strides in this area by developing a Leadership Management and Succession Planning framework, which can serve as a model for other sectors.
6. Sub-national Functioning: For federal governance to thrive, sub-national levels must operate effectively. Empowering local governments and states is crucial to driving development and ensuring that policies resonate with the specific needs of communities.
7. Rallying Creed: We need a rallying creed that unites the nation, built on shared values, history, and aspirations. This creed should encapsulate our collective identity and inspire a sense of belonging among all Nigerians.
Key Areas for Development
To foster meaningful growth, we should focus on several key areas:
– Economic Development: Diversify the economy, promote entrepreneurship, and invest in infrastructure to create sustainable jobs and stimulate growth.
– Education: Improve access to quality education, vocational training, and skills development to equip our youth for the future.
– Healthcare: Strengthen healthcare systems, increase access to quality services, and promote wellness to enhance the quality of life for all citizens.
Addressing these irreducible minimums is imperative for Nigeria to realize its potential. By defining our national identity, fostering effective leadership, adopting critical system thinking, reorienting our social consciousness, planning for succession, empowering sub-national levels, and creating a unifying creed, we can move toward a prosperous future. Together, we can build a Nigeria that reflects our shared aspirations and values, paving the way for sustainable development and national unity. Only through intentional action and inclusive governance can we hope to achieve our collective goals and inspire future generations.
Baba Isimi, FNIA, an architect, public affairs commentator and the Lead Convener National Integration Group, writes from Abuja.
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