By Kelvin Uwaibi

There is a saying that citizens get the leaders they deserve. It is no secret that the Nigerian economy is struggling, and it is imperative that we all bring patriotism to the forefront and focus on fixing our country. As Bishop Kukah said, “Building a nation is a serious matter.”

This begins with the leaders we choose to lead us, united by a shared vision for our country, and driven by love for our citizens and our nation. A key factor in the administrations of President Obasanjo and President Goodluck Jonathan was the engagement of major stakeholders through the National Political Reform Conference and the National Conference.

At the time, some believed these initiatives were a waste of the nation’s resources on what they called “a talk show.” However, upon careful analysis, these dialogues provided an opportunity for different regions to voice their concerns and put forward their pressing needs.

In the current administration, while the President may feel he has the best intentions for Nigerians, the announcement of two major reforms during his inaugural address on May 29, 2023—removal of the petroleum subsidy and forex stabilization—seemed hasty. He also promised to increase the country’s GDP by 6% annually and to improve foreign direct investment by addressing investor concerns, particularly multiple taxation, and by allowing investors to repatriate their funds seamlessly. It has now been 16 months since this administration took the reins of the nation. What is the update?

I have known Mr. President since his days in the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO). When he believes in something, he pursues it with determination. While this is a commendable trait, when running a country, it is essential to consider all stakeholders and to communicate with citizens in a conscious and deliberate manner.

A key ingredient needed is competence. Mr. President is a party man, but upon taking the oath of office, he becomes the President of Nigeria, with the responsibility to protect both the weak and the strong, to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and to devote himself to the service and wellbeing of the people of Nigeria.

The Role of the Subnational in Nigeria’s Unity and Prosperity.

All investment occurs at the subnational level, and all citizens live in the subnational regions. Even the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has communities and villages. Therefore, if the subnational entities are functioning effectively, 80% of Mr. President’s job will be done.

For this reason, I advise Mr. President to set up an independent task team to review the situation in the subnational regions, using Edo State as a case study. Mr. President will recall that in taking the oath of office, he swore that, “I will not allow my personal interest to influence my official conduct or my official decisions.”

This is particularly important because of the upcoming gubernatorial elections in Edo State. The current administration has done its best to put the state on the right trajectory, which has reduced poverty in the land. A recent survey shows that Edo people are among the happiest in the country. We have a large Diaspora that loves Nigeria, and we boast one of the richest cultures in the country. In the entertainment industry, Edo State has made significant contributions, from the legendary Victor Uwaifo to young superstars like REMA. In broadcasting, two formidable TV stations are owned by Edo entrepreneurs.

Edo people are proud to be Nigerian. An Edo man was the first to advocate for Nigeria’s independence. Edo is the torch Mr. President needs to guide us to prosperity. Therefore, we must now rethink and deliver an honest assessment. Competence and merit must be our watchwords, and the will of the people must be taken into consideration. The NADECO spirit should come to the fore. The unity of our country, love for our citizens, and love for our country are now paramount.

Uwaibi, an analyst, wrote in from Lagos.