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Lack Of Quality Political Leadership Responsible For Nigeria’s Problems

A former Minister of Education and Founder, School of Politics, Policy and Governance (SPPG), Dr Obiageli Ezekwesili, has blamed the lack of quality political leadership for the country's economic woes.

Dr. Obiageli Ezekwesili, former Minister of Education and Founder of the School of Politics, Policy, and Governance (SPPG), has identified the shortage of competent political leadership as the root cause of Nigeria’s economic difficulties.

Nigeria, as Africa’s most populous country and largest economy, possesses vast human and natural resources. However, despite its potential, the nation grapples with a myriad of socio-economic challenges, including widespread poverty, corruption, insecurity, and underdevelopment. Ezekwesili’s analysis delves into the underlying factors perpetuating these issues, pinpointing the deficiency in political leadership as a primary obstacle to progress.

The concept of political leadership encompasses more than just holding positions of power; it entails vision, integrity, competence, and a genuine commitment to public service. Effective political leadership is essential for steering a nation towards sustainable development, fostering inclusive growth, and addressing the needs of its citizens. However, Nigeria has faced a persistent dearth of such leadership, characterized by self-interest, nepotism, and short-term thinking.

Addressing attendees at the inaugural session of the SPPG Distinguished Guest Speaker Series, Ezekwesili emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive reforms, including a new constitution and restructuring of political, electoral, and economic frameworks.

Highlighting the correlation between effective governance and national progress, Ezekwesili underscored the imperative for a political landscape conducive to good governance.

In her discourse-themed ‘Power, Performance, and Legitimacy: Renewing Global Democratic Momentum,’ she underscored the findings of the #FixPolitics research, stressing that the absence of good governance remains the foremost impediment to Nigeria’s economic advancement.

Ezekwesili decried the prevailing trend where political leaders prioritize personal interests over the collective welfare of citizens, lamenting the failure of African politicians to fulfil their obligations to the populace.

Proposing a radical solution, Ezekwesili advocated for establishing an innovative SPPG to nurture a new cadre of principled politicians capable of prioritizing public welfare.

She emphasized the necessity of training a new breed of Nigerians in ethical politics, policy, and governance, with a curriculum tailored to instill values that promote the common good.

Moreover, Ezekwesili called for collective action among Nigerians to demand sweeping reforms, warning against the looming threat of state failure if urgent measures are not taken.

Echoing Ezekwesili’s sentiments, Prof. Larry Diamond from Stanford University criticized the monopolization of political power by ruling parties as undermining electoral integrity and stifling democratic processes.

Dr. Obiageli Ezekwesili’s assessment of Nigeria’s challenges underscores the critical importance of addressing the deficit in political leadership. By recognizing the fundamental role of leadership in driving socio-economic development and promoting good governance, Nigeria can embark on a path of transformative change. Through comprehensive reforms, including a new constitution, restructuring of political and economic frameworks, and investment in leadership development, Nigeria can overcome its obstacles and realize its full potential as a prosperous, inclusive, and democratic nation.

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