The Challenge of Governance: Steady Race To Nation Building By Bunmi George
When Yar'Adua declared his asset sometime back, it was received with mixed feelings. Some praised him for setting the pace for transparency, while some simply relegated it to a charade. I tell you, it may look like child’s play; this is a good thing for democracy in Nigeria. In the history of this country no past leadership ever did a thing like this before. This is an act of true demonstration of a true transparency and accountability. There has been divergent opinion of the public on his style of governance, be it as it may, what everybody should look out for is the dividends that will accrue to the nation at the end of the day. Though, may look slow but if we are sure of positive result eventually, it is better. One thing is certain, Nigeria is one unusual entity that cannot fail irrespective what is happening today.
The ability to lead others regardless the shade of people is a daunting task and as such for a nation like ours, it is difficult to be comfortable as it were so easily with any Leadership if we don’t have instant change. This is based on the fact that the disappointment of the Nigerian populace over the years has created so much doubt and discontent due to the failures of past leaders on promises made but not kept. As much we desire this change, it cannot be an era of instant milk and instant coffee but certainly we shall get there. It is indeed a developmental process and somehow we will overcome this teething stage.
Mr. President inherited a premature system, shaky economy, corrupt system, Niger Delta Crusaders saga, unemployment, amongst others. The President has exhibited the leadership traits inherent in him in every sense of it especially when he granted amnesty to the Niger Delta ex-militants now the Crusaders. It is heart warming to see that he has equally upheld the rights of citizens in the country and some on exile. The case of Mallam Nasir el-Rufai and Nuhu Ribadu of the anti-corruption and anti graft fame is a point in case. So far so good, one can summarily say that this is a step in the right order in democracy and paths to better the well being of the citizenry. I think in the atmosphere of peace, so much can be positively achieved.
I am not saying Nigeria has the best of government yet, but what I am saying is that the writings are on the wall. There is no leadership that does not need support, physical or spiritual from its populace. We can only help ourselves to be where we want the country to be. Nigeria is faced with all manners of adversity; there is no denying that fact. But it is also obvious that hope will be rebirth at long run with these steps taken by this man, though slow to the eyes. The 7 Point Agenda of the administration no doubt outlined how to restore normalcy to the country and its people and the president is poised in every way to see to the realisation of this agenda.
We need to also bear in mind that the best of leaders strive to achieve targets. It is better to be slow as long as the set goals are achievable than embark on a very high momentous pace and crash along the line. It is better late than be the late. This administration, God being on its side will definitely get there.
The administration is faced with an arduous task of repositioning a country that have for the past four decades undergoing socio-political and economic imbroglio created by the colonial masters and the military. It cannot be achieved overnight. This is not about holding brief for the country, after all we are all involve but the truth is that, the present administration be at least given the benefit of the doubt as it is barely two years in office.
The fight against corruption in the past administration did not really eradicate the cancerous graft and its children in most of the sectors but with this bold step taken by Sanusi of CBN to shakeup the untouchable bank executives is worthy of commendation. This cleansing and purging will go a long way helping to better reposition the banking industry and at long run impact positively on the economy.
Most citizens have never taken responsibility for learning about the basic approaches for creating economic well-being as well as a coherent strategy that reflects their priorities. How do we then keep all hands on deck in order to see that this administration succeeds? We must all rise up to the challenge by supporting the good programmes of the Government as well as genuinely criticise the ones that are not good enough. The Developed nations do not want Nigeria to succeed. We need to take our destiny into our hands. Mr. President may not have the trait of a messiah in any way but let us give him a chance to prove this administration. |