Abdulrauf Aliyu

As the incoming governors of the Northern Nigerian states prepare to take the oath of office on the 29th of May, 2023, the burden of expectation lies heavy on their shoulders. The people of the region look to their leaders with anticipation, hoping for a new era of progress and development. It is a time that calls for visionary leadership, pragmatic decision-making, and a steadfast commitment to the welfare and prosperity of the people. In charting a course for progress, the incoming governors must address key priorities that have long hindered the region’s growth. By tackling these challenges head-on, they have the opportunity to reshape the narrative and unlock the immense potential of the Northern Nigerian states.

First and foremost, the incoming governors must address the issue of security. Northern Nigeria has been plagued by persistent violence and insurgency, causing untold suffering and hindering economic growth. It is imperative that the governors collaborate closely with security agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of the people. They must invest in intelligence gathering, equip and train security personnel, and implement strategies that foster community engagement and trust-building. By restoring peace and stability, the governors will create an environment conducive to investment, job creation, and overall development.

Education stands as another crucial priority for the incoming governors. Despite some progress, illiteracy rates remain alarmingly high in the Northern Nigerian states. This disparity severely limits opportunities for economic growth and social mobility. The incoming governors must prioritize educational reform, focusing on improving access, quality, and relevance. They should allocate resources to build and refurbish schools, provide adequate teacher training, and enhance curriculum to meet the demands of the 21st century. Additionally, initiatives such as scholarship programs and adult education can help bridge the education gap and empower individuals with knowledge and skills.

The agricultural sector holds tremendous potential for the Northern Nigerian states, and the incoming governors must harness this opportunity to drive economic growth and alleviate poverty. By investing in modern agricultural practices, infrastructure development, and access to credit for farmers, they can enhance productivity and increase the income of rural communities. Diversification into value-added agricultural products and agribusiness will create job opportunities and reduce the region’s heavy reliance on oil revenue. Embracing technology and innovation in agriculture, such as precision farming and irrigation systems, can further optimize yields and ensure food security.

Infrastructure development is a critical aspect that cannot be overlooked. The Northern Nigerian states suffer from inadequate road networks, limited access to electricity, and a lack of potable water supply. These deficiencies hamper commerce, restrict mobility, and undermine the quality of life for residents. The incoming governors must prioritize the construction and maintenance of roads, bridges, and railways to improve connectivity within and beyond the region. They should also explore renewable energy sources and invest in power generation and distribution to address the chronic power shortages. Access to clean water should be a fundamental right, and the governors must invest in water infrastructure projects to provide safe and reliable water supply to all communities.

Healthcare is another area that demands urgent attention. The Northern Nigerian states continue to grapple with inadequate healthcare facilities, high infant and maternal mortality rates, and the prevalence of preventable diseases. The incoming governors must prioritize healthcare reform, allocating resources to improve healthcare infrastructure, equip medical facilities, and enhance access to quality healthcare services. A comprehensive approach that includes investments in primary healthcare, immunization programs, and the training and retention of healthcare professionals is necessary to ensure the well-being of the people.

In addition to these priorities, the incoming governors must also address social issues such as gender inequality, youth unemployment, and religious and ethnic tensions. It is imperative that they promote inclusivity and create an enabling environment where every individual can thrive and contribute to the development of the region. By engaging with civil society organizations, religious leaders, and community stakeholders, the governors can foster dialogue, promote understanding, and build bridges across divides.

Furthermore, the incoming governors should recognize the importance of regional cooperation and collaboration. Many of the challenges faced by the Northern Nigerian states transcend borders and require collective efforts to find lasting solutions. By forging partnerships with neighbouring states, federal agencies, and international organizations, the governors can leverage resources, expertise, and best practices to accelerate progress and development.

However, the success of the incoming governors’ agenda hinges on effective implementation and efficient utilization of resources. They must prioritize prudent financial management, ensure the proper allocation and utilization of funds, and establish systems to monitor and evaluate projects and programs. Regular engagement with citizens through town hall meetings, surveys, and feedback mechanisms will help gauge the impact of policies and initiatives and allow for necessary adjustments.

Charting a course for progress requires a long-term vision and a steadfast commitment to the well-being of the people. The incoming governors must embrace the challenges with courage, determination, and a genuine desire to effect positive change. They have the opportunity to redefine the narrative of the Northern Nigerian states, transforming them into beacons of prosperity, harmony, and opportunity.

As the incoming governors prepare to take office, they must remember that they are entrusted with the hopes and aspirations of millions of people. They have a sacred duty to prioritize the needs of the citizens and work tirelessly towards achieving the vision of a prosperous, inclusive, and secure Northern Nigerian states. It is a monumental task, but with visionary leadership, effective governance, and the collective effort of all stakeholders, the governors can usher in a new era of progress, where the potential of the region is fully realized and the people’s lives are transformed for the better.

Finally, the incoming governors must prioritize good governance and transparency. Corruption remains a significant challenge that hampers development and erodes public trust. The governors must lead by example, promoting transparency, accountability, and ethical conduct in all aspects of governance. They should establish robust anti-corruption agencies and implement stringent measures to combat corruption at all levels. By fostering a culture of transparency and accountability, the incoming governors can inspire confidence in the government and encourage public participation in decision-making processes.

In the vibrant tapestry of Nigerian politics, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu has emerged as a formidable figure. With his recent victory in the presidential elections, he stands on the precipice of assuming the highest office in the land. As we approach this momentous occasion, it is worth examining Tinubu’s strategic acumen and leadership style through the lens of John Lewis Gaddis’s bestselling book, “On Grand Strategy.” By delving into the characteristics of the hedgehog and the fox, we can gain valuable insights into Tinubu’s potential trajectory as the Nigerian President.

Gaddis posits that individuals fall into two categories: hedgehogs and foxes. Hedgehogs, characterized by their singular focus, have one defining idea or principle that guides their actions. Foxes, on the other hand, are nimble and adaptable, drawing from a wide range of experiences and ideas. In analyzing Tinubu’s political career, it becomes evident that he embodies the qualities of both the hedgehog and the fox.

Tinubu’s rise to power can be traced back to his days as the Governor of Lagos State, where he displayed remarkable tenacity and strategic thinking. His ability to mobilize grassroots support and build formidable political machinery is a testament to his hedgehog-like determination. Tinubu demonstrated a keen focus on transforming Lagos into a modern and economically vibrant city. He implemented pragmatic policies that attracted investments, improved infrastructure, and fostered a conducive environment for businesses to thrive. This relentless pursuit of a single vision propelled him to become a formidable force in Nigerian politics.

However, Tinubu’s political prowess extends beyond his hedgehog-like attributes. He has also demonstrated fox-like adaptability and a shrewd understanding of the ever-evolving political landscape. Throughout his career, Tinubu has been a master of coalition-building, forging alliances and strategic partnerships with diverse groups and individuals. This ability to navigate the complex webs of Nigerian politics reflects his fox-like versatility. Tinubu’s coalition-building skills have been instrumental in his electoral victories, allowing him to transcend ethnic and regional boundaries and unite diverse groups under a common banner.

Tinubu’s fox-like qualities are further evident in his pragmatic approach to governance. He has displayed a willingness to embrace innovative ideas and incorporate them into his policy framework. Whether it is adopting technology to improve governance or championing progressive social reforms, Tinubu has shown a willingness to adapt to changing circumstances and respond to the needs of the Nigerian people. This ability to think on his feet and adapt to new challenges will be crucial as he assumes the presidency, given the complex and multifaceted issues facing Nigeria.

As Tinubu prepares to take the oath of office, he must draw upon both his hedgehog and fox-like attributes. He needs the unwavering focus and determination of a hedgehog to tackle the deep-rooted problems that plague Nigeria, such as corruption, insecurity, and economic inequality. A clear and coherent grand strategy will be essential for steering the nation towards a brighter future.

At the same time, Tinubu must remain adaptable and open-minded, embracing the diverse perspectives and ideas of the Nigerian people. A fox-like approach will enable him to harness the collective wisdom and talents of the nation, fostering a culture of inclusivity and participatory governance. Nigeria’s challenges are multifaceted and cannot be addressed through a one-size-fits-all approach. Tinubu must be willing to listen, learn, and adjust his strategies as necessary.

In conclusion, Tinubu’s impending presidency represents a critical juncture in Nigeria’s history. By drawing inspiration from John Lewis Gaddis’s concept of the hedgehog and the fox, we can gain valuable insights into Tinubu’s leadership style and potential trajectory. As he assumes office, Tinubu must embrace both his hedgehog-like determination and his fox-like adaptability. By combining these qualities, he can navigate the complex challenges facing Nigeria and lead the nation towards a brighter and more prosperous future.

Abdulrauf Aliyu

Kaduna based strategy and policy consultant

08035293547

aliyuabdulrauf@gmail.com

As the dust settles on the recent Nigerian election, a recent statement made by Vice President-Elect Kassim Shettima has raised alarm and concern across the country. In a widely publicized television press statement, Mr. Shettima stated that he believes the “most corrupt and incompetent senator from the south is better than the most qualified and competent senator from the north to be president of the senate.” This statement is not only disappointing, but it is also dangerous and has the potential to undermine the very fabric of our democracy.

As a country that is still struggling with issues of corruption and inequality, it is crucial that our leaders are held to the highest standards of integrity and competence. This is particularly true for those who hold important positions of power, such as the President of the Senate. This position is responsible for overseeing legislative activities, setting the agenda for the senate, and ensuring that the legislative process is conducted in a fair and transparent manner. It is a position that requires someone who is not only competent but also incorruptible.

Mr. Shettima’s statement is not only a disservice to the people of Nigeria, but it is also an insult to the thousands of qualified and competent senators from across the country who are working tirelessly to improve the lives of their constituents. It is not enough to simply have a senator from a particular region or ethnic group as President of the Senate; what is needed is someone who has the necessary skills and experience to lead effectively.

Furthermore, Mr. Shettima’s statement is a reflection of the deep-seated tribalism and regionalism that continues to plague our country. This kind of thinking only serves to divide us further and makes it more difficult to build a united and prosperous Nigeria. It is time for our leaders to move beyond these narrow-minded considerations and focus on what is best for the country as a whole.

The blunder made by Vice President Elect Kashim Shettima can be analysed through the lens of political science and theories of public communication. Several theories and concepts can help shed light on the implications and causes of such a statement.

Political Communication Theory: This theory focuses on how political actors convey messages to the public and how those messages are interpreted. In this case, Mr. Shettima’s statement can be seen as a failure of effective political communication. Instead of framing his argument in a constructive and inclusive manner, he resorted to divisive language and reinforced regional biases. Political leaders should be mindful of the impact of their words and strive to communicate in a way that unites rather than divides.

Elite Theory: This theory highlights the power and influence of political elites in shaping public discourse and decision-making. Mr. Shettima’s statement can be seen as an example of elite capture, where a political leader prioritizes the interests of a particular group or faction over broader public interests. By suggesting that a corrupt and incompetent senator is better suited for a significant position, he may be attempting to consolidate power or appease certain factions within his party or region. This reinforces the perception that political elites are more concerned with self-interest and narrow agendas rather than the welfare of the nation as a whole.

Political Legitimacy Theory: This theory explores the factors that contribute to the legitimacy of political leaders and institutions. Legitimacy is often derived from factors such as competence, integrity, and accountability. Mr. Shettima’s statement undermines his own legitimacy as Vice President Elect by suggesting that corruption and incompetence are acceptable traits for a leader in the Senate. This raises doubts about his commitment to good governance and casts doubt on the legitimacy of the political system that would allow such a mindset to flourish.

Given the assumptions of the aforementioned theories, the sole possible interpretation is that Mr. Shettima aimed to highlight the importance of fair representation for all regions in Nigeria. It is undeniable that every region deserves a voice and the opportunity to contribute to the legislative process. However, his choice of words was highly regrettable and did not effectively convey his intended message. It is crucial for our leaders to exercise prudence in their public statements, ensuring that their words promote unity rather than division.

In discussing the role of the President of the Senate, one expected Mr Shettima to emphasize the qualities necessary for effective leadership. This is because, the position demands individuals who possess a combination of competence, integrity, and a commitment to serving the nation. As such, it is imperative to prioritize meritocracy in the selection process, as this will result in a Senate President capable of driving progress and representing the interests of all Nigerians.

Therefore, in order to move beyond this blunder, Mr. Shettima should publicly acknowledge his mistake and clarify his intentions. He should emphasize that his remarks were not meant to demean any senator or region, but rather to stress the importance of inclusive representation and the need for capable leaders across the nation. By demonstrating humility and accountability, Mr. Shettima can work towards healing any division caused by his statement.

In conclusion, it is important that we hold our leaders accountable for their actions and statements. Mr. Shettima’s statement is a clear indication that he does not understand the gravity of the position of the President of the Senate. We need leaders who are not only competent but also incorruptible, and who are committed to building a united and prosperous Nigeria. It is time for us to demand more from our leaders and hold them to the highest standards of integrity and competence. it is vital that we hold our leaders accountable for their words and actions. Mr. Shettima’s blunder demonstrates a lack of understanding of the weighty responsibilities associated with the position of the President of the Senate. We must demand leaders who embody both competence and integrity, individuals dedicated to fostering a unified and prosperous Nigeria. It is time for us to expect more from our leaders and to insist upon the highest standards of ethical conduct and competence in our political leadership. 

As the ongoing conflict in Sudan escalates, the world watches with growing concern. The violence and political instability that has plagued the country for decades are now threatening to spill over into neighboring countries, exacerbating regional tensions and further destabilizing an already volatile region. But beyond the humanitarian crisis, there is another reason why the world should be paying close attention to Sudan: it is a choke point in the global supply chain.

In the context of weaponized interdependence and geopolitical risk, a choke point is a strategic location or resource that, if disrupted or destroyed, could have a significant impact on global trade and commerce. Examples include the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping lane through which a third of the world’s oil passes, or the Suez Canal, which connects the Mediterranean and Red Seas and facilitates the transportation of goods between Europe and Asia. These choke points are vulnerable to disruption from conflict, terrorism, piracy, or other forms of geopolitical risk, and any disruption can have serious consequences for businesses and economies around the world.

Sudan is a choke point in the global supply chain for several reasons. First, the country supplies a significant amount of halal livestock to the Middle East, a region that is heavily dependent on imports for its food supply. Second, Sudan is the world’s largest exporter of several key crops, including groundnuts, sunflower, soybean, safflower, and sesame. These crops are essential ingredients in many food products, and any disruption to their supply could have far-reaching consequences for food manufacturers and consumers. Finally, over 80% of the world’s gum Arabic, an important input for food additives, paint, and cosmetics, is produced in Sudan.

The impact of the ongoing conflict in Sudan on businesses and supply chains has already been felt. For example, the recent closure of the Port Sudan container terminal, which handles the majority of the country’s exports, has disrupted the flow of goods and caused delays for companies that rely on Sudanese exports. Similarly, the closure of land borders and the disruption of transportation routes have made it difficult for businesses to move goods in and out of the country. This has led to increased costs and reduced efficiency, as companies are forced to find alternative routes or pay higher prices for transportation.

The ongoing war in Sudan has also led to an increase in the prices of commodities such as gum Arabic, sesame, and other key crops that the country exports. This increase in prices has had a ripple effect on businesses and consumers worldwide, as they have to pay more for these essential commodities. For example, food and beverage manufacturers have had to adjust their prices or seek alternative sources of these ingredients, leading to higher production costs and reduced profit margins.

Moreover, the political instability and violence in Sudan have also created a hostile business environment, deterring foreign investment and making it difficult for local businesses to operate. This has led to a decline in economic activity and job losses, exacerbating the country’s already dire economic situation. The impact of this instability is not limited to Sudan; it has also affected neighboring countries such as South Sudan, which depends on Sudanese infrastructure and resources for its own economic development.

Furthermore, the instability in Sudan has led to a rise in piracy and other forms of criminal activity in the Red Sea, which is a major shipping route for global trade. This has created additional risks for businesses that rely on this route for the transportation of goods, as they have to factor in the cost of piracy insurance and the risk of goods being stolen or delayed.

The impact of the conflict in Sudan is not limited to the global supply chain and businesses; it also has a human cost. The conflict has led to the displacement of millions of people, many of whom have been forced to flee their homes and

A new Cold War has emerged with the US and China as the primary protagonists. The seeds were sown by the US determination to maintain its global hegemony in the aftermath of the disintegration of the Soviet Union and the challenge posed to the US domination by China’s dramatic rise. In 1992, the US through a leaked Pentagon planning document stressed that its overarching strategic goal, “is to prevent the re-emergence of a new rival … that poses a threat on the order of that posed formerly by the Soviet Union. … Our strategy must now refocus on precluding the emergence of any potential future global competitor.” However, China’s meteoric rise in due course upset America’s long-term strategic planning.

Following the policies of economic reforms and opening to the outside world introduced by Deng Xiaoping, China’s economy took off. From 1978 to 2011, China maintained an average annual growth rate of nearly 10 per cent, thus, doubling its GDP after every seven years. By 2014, China’s GDP in purchasing power parity terms had surpassed that of the US. China’s rapid economic growth has also provided it with the resources to build up its military power at a fast pace.

China’s fast-developing economic and trade links worldwide have enabled it to increase its economic and political clout in Asia, the Persian Gulf region, Africa, and Latin America. The conciliation between Iran and Saudi Arabia brokered by China is the latest example of its growing diplomatic footprint in the Persian Gulf region. Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative, which was launched in 2013, aims at enhancing China’s economic and commercial links with Eurasian and African countries, including Nigeria, through trade and investment.

However, America, in the face of the challenge posed by a rapidly rising China, has employed all levers of hard and soft power at its disposal to slow down China’s progress and check the expansion of its power and influence, especially in the Sub-Saharan region. In a major departure from its slogans of free trade and economic competition, Washington has imposed far-reaching economic, commercial, and technological sanctions to slow down China’s economic growth and technological development. 

In the context of the US-China rivalry, sub-Saharan Africa has become an increasingly important arena for both powers. China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), launched in 2013, aims to enhance China’s economic and commercial links with African countries through trade and investment. The BRI has provided many African countries with much-needed infrastructure and investment, but it has also raised concerns about debt sustainability and China’s growing influence in the region.

The US, for its part, has sought to counter China’s influence in sub-Saharan Africa. In 2018, the Trump administration unveiled a new Africa strategy, which focused on countering Chinese influence and promoting US economic interests. The strategy emphasized the importance of private sector investment and economic growth, and the US has pledged to invest $60 billion in the region over the next three years.

However, some analysts have questioned whether the US can effectively compete with China in sub-Saharan Africa. China has a significant head start, with decades of engagement and investment in the region, while the US has only recently begun to focus on Africa as a strategic priority. Moreover, the US has been criticized for focusing too narrowly on security and counterterrorism, rather than addressing the underlying economic and governance challenges that drive instability in many African countries.

We may not be wrong to say that, China and the US are caught in Thucydides’s trap, a term popularized by Graham Allison through his book, Destined for War, in which he argued that when an emerging power challenges the domination of an existing hegemon making the war between them almost inevitable because of the resultant structural stresses. America insists that China must fall in line with the rules-based order established by the US-led West after World War II to perpetuate its global domination. China wants the prevailing world order to be modified to accommodate its legitimate interests. Going by America’s anti-China policies of the past few years, a prolonged period of confrontation rather than conciliation is more likely. This confrontation can manifest itself in tensions, political strife, and localized proxy conflicts on such issues as Taiwan and territorial disputes in South China and East China Seas. Predictably, China has tilted in favor of Russia on the Ukraine war issue. Despite its painful implications, there may also be some decoupling of the economies of the two sides because of the hard American sanctions against China. However, a full-fledged war between the

US and China is unlikely due to the severe consequences it would have. The world needs to find a new balance amidst this new Cold War. Unfortunately, this balance is tipping towards a power-dominated political environment with international law taking a backseat. The UN’s authority on strategic security issues is dwindling, and alliances are shifting.

In such a chaotic world, the ultimate guarantee of security would be the power of states and their allies. Sub-Saharan countries must build up their respective national powers while prioritizing political stability, economic and technological growth, and strategic cooperation with China and other friendly countries to enhance its security and economic prosperity.

They must not sit idly by and watch the US-China rivalry unfold. Instead, they must position themselves strategically and take advantage of the opportunities presented by this new global order. Sub-Saharan political leaders must realize that their country’s growth and prosperity depend on their ability to navigate the global political and economic landscape successfully.

One way for them to achieve this goal is by developing strong partnership with China. China is the world’s second-largest economy, and its Belt and Road Initiative offers African countries, a unique opportunity to access Chinese investment and technology. Sub-Saharan African countries must leverage China’s economic and diplomatic clout to secure a better position in the global economy.

Furthermore, Sub-Saharan African countries must focus on political stability, which is essential for attracting foreign investment and maintaining economic growth. Their respective governments must work to address the root causes of political instability, including corruption, poverty, and inequality, to achieve sustained economic growth.

In conclusion, Sub-Saharan African countries must be proactive in navigating the new global order dominated by the US-China rivalry. The region must build up its own national power while prioritizing political stability, economic and technological growth, and strategic cooperation with China and other friendly countries. With the right policies and strategies, they can position themselves to become major players in the global economy, enhancing their regional security and prosperity in the process.

Nigeria’s (political) economy has been mired by uncertainties for a large part of its existence. However, a stage has now been reached where personal, party and institutional interests and differences ought to be restrained and all stakeholders need to agree to some basic principles and policies.

The recognition has been there and there has been much talk of a charter of the economy in political circles. Yet, there has been little discussion on what the salient features of such an agreement would be. Here is an attempt to outline the broad contours of a possible charter:

1. Nigeria is a democracy and the well-being of all citizens is paramount; the rights and interests of all segments of the population is to be ensured, including the majority segment — ie, the lower and middle-income citizens.
2. The elected representatives will collectively galvanise public support for the steps to be taken under this charter so that the citizenry stands by the government when self-serving special interest groups resist necessary corrective actions.
3. Cronyism is a grave injustice and fosters an uncompetitive economy. Uncompetitive ‘cronyism’ (through subsidies, tax breaks, special access, protection from competition, etc) will be replaced with a fair and competitive market economy, but with the state taking responsibility for nurturing citizens to reach their full potential and providing social protection for the deserving needy.
4. Discriminatory regulations and subsidies — which are estimated to cost more than debt servicing or human capital development expenditures — will be ended. If/where concessions or subsidies are deemed justified and necessary for some component/sector, then the state must receive a fair share (as proportionate shareholders) of the enterprise subsidised with the citizen’s hard-earned incomes.
5. Technocrats and regulatory bodies will be selected on merit and no conflict of interest will be countenanced. They will work within policy parameters formulated by elected representatives and be held accountable for results.
6. Selection, advancements, postings and job tenure of government officials will be strictly on defined criteria, without reference to the wishes of influentials.
7. An effective mechanism will be established for the coordination of the various components of the justice system, which currently come under different administrative units (parliament, judiciary, ministries, police, prosecution, etc). Criteria will be agreed upon for the selection of judges. The judicial administrative authority of judges (formation of benches, cause list) will be shared by senior judges.
8. Only the highest-priority development projects will be funded for the immediate future. Scarce international currency reserves will not be spent on the import of non-essential goods. Severe penalties will be applied for defrauding the country, such as through under- and over-invoicing.
9. Every effort will be made to import in the national currency under quid pro quo arrangements, or by trading/bartering against national production.
10. Unaffordable losses by State Owned Enterprises will be controlled by professional reorganisation or by transparent privatisation.
11. Utility pricing will be rationalised so as not to unfairly burden the poor. Distribution losses will be controlled, for instance by investing in upgrading and reducing inefficiencies, instead of passing the burden onto consumers.
12. The current method of ‘incremental’ budgeting generally practised by the government will be modified and, instead, plans will drive budgeting, not the other way around.
13. The taxation system will be fair and non-discriminatory, and what is due will be collected regardless of pushback by vested interests. The tax base will be broadened to include all who ought to be eligible, including the agriculture sector. Indirect taxes will only be charged where fully explained and justified.
14. The highest priority will be to bring agriculture and livestock productivity and quality at par with international standards and by improving water utilisation efficiency. The land revenue department will be streamlined to remove any hindrance to economic activity.
15. Exports will be raised by producing more internationally competitive products and services. Reliance on state concessions and grants of ‘favoured’ status by importer countries will be weaned off. There should be equal opportunity for all enterprises to develop a highly competitive economy through simplified procedures, no discriminatory policies and regulations, quality skills training and science education, quick dispute resolution and so forth. Overseas workers will be professionally supported as a vital part of the national economy.
16. The state will facilitate and regulate a fair market economy. The industry will step up from assembly to manufacturing. Exporters will diversify their export goods as well as destinations.
17. The services sector will be encouraged to give due importance to exports. Regulatory bodies will be accountable for performing their assig­ned role effectively. Insider trading, cartel behaviour and other illegal practices will not be allowed.
18. Opportunities presented by AfCFTA will be fully availed. Besides infrastructure, Nigeria will work with foreign firms to manufacture and export products via AfCFTA and train workers by association with foreign experts and technology and skills transfers.
19. National and state development strategies and plans will be made domestically. Foreign supporters may offer to fund a part of these. In the future, this ought to be the model for foreign assistance, if needed.
20. At present, highly educated workers have a much higher unemployment rate than the national average. When properly informed about work opportunities, after completing basic education, most students are expected to opt for high-quality, market-driven vocational skills training. Higher education institutions will cater to a more competitive student body and focus on producing the country’s requirements in science/engineering, agriculture, industry, IT and other fields.
21. A productive and efficient economy requires a healthy workforce. The state will, therefore, make every effort to organise quality healthcare for all.

The struggle for power in Nigeria is largely driven by identity politics. This is a phenomenon that has been fuelled by a range of primordial factors, including religion, tribalism, ethnicity, and regionalism. These factors have been present in Nigerian politics since the colonial era, and they have played a significant role in shaping the country’s political landscape.

One of the key theorists that can help us to understand the impact of identity politics on Nigeria is Samuel Huntington. In his seminal work “The Clash of Civilizations,” Huntington argued that the world was divided into a series of cultural and civilizational fault-lines that would lead to conflict in the post-Cold War era. According to Huntington, the primary source of conflict in the world was no longer ideological or economic, but cultural.

The relevance of Huntington’s work to Nigeria’s political landscape cannot be overstated. In Nigeria, identity politics has been a major source of conflict, leading to numerous instances of communal violence, political instability, and even civil war. Religion, for example, has played a significant role in Nigeria’s political history, with the country divided roughly along religious lines. The northern part of the country is predominantly Muslim, while the southern part is largely Christian.

Similarly, tribalism and ethnicity have also played a significant role in shaping Nigerian politics. The country is home to over 250 ethnic groups, each with its own unique cultural identity and history. This has led to a situation where politicians often mobilize support along ethnic lines, promising to promote the interests of their own ethnic groups once in power. This has led to a situation where Nigeria’s politics is often defined by a zero-sum game, with one ethnic group seeking to dominate the others.

Regionalism is another factor that has contributed to Nigeria’s identity politics. The country is divided into six geo-political zones, each with its own unique identity and history. This has led to a situation where politicians often mobilize support along regional lines, promising to promote the interests of their own regions once in power. This has further exacerbated the zero-sum nature of Nigerian politics, with one region seeking to dominate the others.

The recent presidential elections in Nigeria are a perfect illustration of the impact of identity politics on the country’s political landscape. The elections were fiercely contested, with the three main candidates representing different region, religious and ethnic groups.

The elections were characterized by pockets of violent incidents, with all sides accusing the other of electoral malpractice. There were also instances of communal violence in some parts of the country, with supporters of different political parties clashing over the results of the election. This is not an isolated incident, as Nigeria has a long history of electoral violence, with many of the incidents being driven by identity politics.

The danger of identity politics in Nigeria is that it threatens to tear the country apart. If politicians continue to mobilize support along ethnic, religious, and regional lines, the country is likely to become increasingly divided. This could lead to a situation where different parts of the country begin to secede, leading to further violence and instability.

The solution to Nigeria’s identity politics lies in nation-building. Politicians need to focus on promoting national unity and building a sense of shared identity among the country’s diverse ethnic, religious, and regional groups. This means investing in education, infrastructure, and other initiatives that promote social cohesion and national unity.

It also means recognizing the importance of diversity in Nigerian society. Rather than seeing ethnic, religious, and regional differences as a source of conflict, politicians should see them as a source of strength. By celebrating Nigeria’s diversity, politicians can help to build a sense of national identity that transcends primordial loyalties and creates a shared sense of purpose and belonging among all Nigerians.

Furthermore, politicians must prioritize the welfare and development of all Nigerians, regardless of their ethnicity, religion, or region. This means ensuring that all Nigerians have access to basic amenities such as clean water, healthcare, and education. It also means creating a level playing field for all Nigerians, regardless of their social status or background.

Nation-building requires a long-term vision and commitment from political leaders. It cannot be achieved through short-term policies or populist measures that seek to appease certain groups at the expense of others. Instead, it requires a sustained effort to promote national unity and a sense of shared identity among all Nigerians.

The role of civil society organizations and the media in promoting national unity cannot be overstated. They can help to promote dialogue, understanding, and tolerance among different groups in Nigerian society. They can also hold politicians accountable for their actions and policies, and advocate for policies that promote national unity and development.

On a final note, the struggle for power in Nigeria as earlier stated is largely driven by identity politics. This is a phenomenon that threatens to tear the country apart if not addressed urgently. Politicians must pay attention to nation-building and not just power grab, as witnessed in the recently conducted presidential elections. They must focus on promoting national unity and building a sense of shared identity among all Nigerians. This means investing in education, infrastructure, and other initiatives that promote social cohesion and national unity. By doing so, Nigeria can build a future that is inclusive, prosperous, and peaceful for all Nigerians.