Leaders from governance, academia, civil society, and the media have emphasized the need for Nigeria to prioritize governance over politics to secure true growth and development.
This call was made at the second edition of the Advocate Publication Ltd Annual Lecture Series held in Ughelli, Delta State.
The event highlighted the widening chasm between politics and governance in Nigeria, with speakers noting that political survival has taken precedence over governance.
Leaders appear more focused on the next election cycle than fulfilling their mandates, which has resulted in the country’s aspirations remaining unmet.
Speakers stressed the necessity of harmonising governance and politics, emphasising that sustainable development is only possible when political ambitions are aligned with effective governance.
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They also emphasised the importance of strong institutions, integrity in leadership, and civic vigilance in fostering such balance.
Professor Abanum Innocent Ifelunini, a development economist, blamed Nigeria’s stagnation on the politicization of governance.
He emphasised that economic and national policies must endure beyond election cycles and that governance should not be interrupted by political campaigns.
The event concluded with a consensus that politics should be a vehicle for development, not a self-serving enterprise. Governance must take center stage if Nigeria is to realize its full potential.
Citizens were urged to play an active role in ensuring governance thrives beyond elections and to demand accountability from leaders.
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