Nigeria needs businessmen not bureaucrats

Nigeria is a place of firm beliefs. We believe in our religions firmly, dogmatically and wholeheartedly.  We believe in our family and tribal traditions and have great respect for where we come from.  But one thing we don’t believe in is our politics or in fact our politicians. And quite rightly so; there is no firm ideology, no left or right. Can you tell me what the difference is today between the core ideas and worldviews of our leaders and the various candidates? The answer is clearly no.

Court nullifies installation of 21 kings crowned by Ajimobi

So when we go to vote in these historic elections, what are we looking for if not ideology and ideas?  Let’s remember what sort of state our country is in right now. We are in total and utter crisis; lack of jobs, lack of affordable healthcare, lack of basic food, endemic violence. And of course, there is the bleeding jugular of our economy, our governance and our polity and corruption; the lynchpin of our contemporary crisis.

When living in a truly existentially crisis, both on a national and individual level, it is incumbent upon us all to first recognise that the status quo is unsustainable. Things must change. 99 per cent of the country, who aren’t the corrupted super wealthy, or the lucky heirs of a family fortune, come home daily to their families frustrated.

And for all those who recognise that change is necessary, they must ask themselves, how will that change come about? Who is qualified, experienced, and driven to move this behemoth in the right direction? Who understands the economy? Who is experienced in business and succeeding against all the odds? Who enshrines democracy, freedom, and productivity?

There are many new and interesting candidates in the race this time around.  But we all know that this is a two-horse race. It’s the APC against the PDP, and no matter how many more acronyms are thrown into the ring, or how many individuals put up billboards and commercials, the choice we are making lies between those two parties. It’s Buhari versus Atiku.

The APC came to power four years ago with grand promises and of course, the PDP are making the same noises today. But if you are like me and don’t trust promises, or campaign pledges, if you think politicians are full of hot air, then look for something more substantial.  Look directly at the candidate. Look at his character, his background, experience and track record.

And when we are mired in crisis, struggling from day to day, what could be more important for a nation the size of Nigeria than efficiency and productivity.  It’s time we had a businessman not a bureaucrat. It’s time for change.

Victoria Abuto

Abuja