Today being 31st March,2025 ,it has become obvious that our political class is not ready for democracy and good Governance.
Our education system has not prepared us to appreciate the basic issues confronting third world Countries and we have not intentionally developed our education system to address the needs of our environment.
Sadly , Nigerian President and Governor(s) were all playing politics with Governance . The people of Nigeria have been weaponized with poverty , hunger and fear for unknown, however, cannot think straight .
We are good at copying ,imitating ,hence,we have not copied the system of Democracy to address our local needs and to that extent , democracy has failed us . What we have is the Government of few by the few and for the few privileged people . At the federal level , President Tinubu is busy with appointments into federal boards and offices without programs that will favour millions of Nigerians . At the State level , what we have are Emperors occupying Government houses.
As Ambassador of Good Governance, let me remind us that Good Governance is putting political and institutional processes to development goals. At the federal level, the present system of government with over 200 million people is not sustainable. The centre is too powerful and must devolute powers to the federating units . The electoral body must be reformed to make the body truly independent. Nigeria identity management office must be reformed to make it compulsory for every Nigerians to have a biometric number within a few months .
At the State level ,Governors should stop playing politics with Governance . Nigeria’s faulty Constitution gives Land administration to the Governors. They should use the provision to create economic prosperity for the masses viz food security, affordable housing ,and healthcare among others. Political and institutional processes that will lead to food security and massive job creation as well as addressing economic inequalities should be given top priority .
Now study the meaning of Good Governance to be informed;
Good governance refers to the process by which public institutions conduct public affairs and manage public resources, ensuring the realization of human rights, and operating in a manner essentially free of abuse, corruption, and with due regard for the rule of law.
Core Principles of Good Governance-
1. Participation: Involves all citizens in decision-making processes, ensuring their voices are heard and their interests are represented.
2. Rule of Law: Ensures that all individuals, including government officials, are subject to and accountable under the law.
3. Transparency: Means that information is readily available and accessible to the public, allowing for scrutiny and accountability.
4.Responsiveness: Involves institutions and processes that are responsive to the needs and concerns of citizens, ensuring their interests are protected.
5.Consensus-Oriented: Focuses on building consensus and finding common ground through dialogue and negotiation.
6.Equity and Inclusiveness: Strives to ensure that all groups, including marginalized and vulnerable populations, have equal access to opportunities and resources.
7. Effectiveness and Efficiency: Ensures that resources are used wisely and that government actions achieve desired outcomes.
8.Accountability: Means that those in power are held responsible for their actions and decisions, and that there are mechanisms for redress and accountability.
Importance of Good Governance:
1. Good governance is crucial for promoting sustainable development, fostering economic growth, and improving the quality of life for citizens.
2.It helps to build trust in government and institutions, and to strengthen democratic values.
3. It is essential for protecting human rights and ensuring that all citizens have equal access to justice and opportunities.
Ndubuisi Anaenugwu
GGM Ambassador
