Nigeria At 64: Poor Leadership Hindering Progress – Gov Yusuf

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has identified weak institutions, corruption, poor governance and the quality of leadership at the national, state and local government levels as some of the challenges hindering Nigeria’s development.

In a speech at a lecture to mark the country’s 64th independence in Kano, Governor Yusuf gave an assessment of the progress made in the country’s democratic journey.

The governor commended the two speakers at the lecture, Prof. Kamilu Fagge and Sheikh Ibrahim Khalil, for their contributions, saying they “incisively engaged us on topics that are of paramount importance to both Kano State and our country as a whole.”

He described the topics addressed as apt and reflecting the realities of national life, especially in the areas of governance, leadership, and the relentless pursuit of development.

And in his assessment, Governor Yusuf raised questions on whether the democratic ideals of freedom, justice, and equality have been fulfilled.

He said, “As it is everywhere globally, the success of Nigeria’s democracy is tied closely to the quality of leadership.

“As a developing nation with a complex political landscape, leadership challenges, such as corruption, weak institutions and lack of accountability, have hindered national progress.”

He said, “A lecture focusing on leadership challenges will certainly allow for a deeper analysis of the role leaders at both state and national levels play in the country’s successes and shortcomings.

“Although the topics address national issues, its specific focus on Kano State is highly relevant. States are the building blocks of Nigeria’s federal structure, and the progress of individual states contributes to the overall success of the nation.”

Speaking on his own government and state, Governor Yusuf said that by repositioning Kano State to address leadership and governance challenges, it sets an example for other states on how to create a model of good governance that can be replicated nationwide.

He said, “Allow me to also remind you that the future of Nigeria is deeply linked to the development of its states. A brighter future for Kano State can serve as a small-scale version of the broader national aspiration for a prosperous Nigeria.

“By addressing state-level challenges in leadership, education, health, and infrastructure, these topics emphasise the importance of localised governance as a stepping stone to national success.”

He said Nigerians must recognise that democracy is a journey, and the success of that journey is largely dependent on the quality of leadership at every level — national, state, and local government. “We in Kano State are fully committed to playing our part in strengthening the democratic process and building institutions that foster good governance.”

Governor Abba, who used the opportunity to highlight some of his achievements in education, health, security, agriculture, and public service reforms among others, said as Kano State looks to the future, his administration will continue to build on those achievements.

He called for the active participation of all citizens in the spirit of patriotism, hard work, and dedication to the values that define Nigerians as a people.

“Let me therefore urge all of us to use this anniversary as a time for reflection, and renew our commitment to building a prosperous, secure, and inclusive Kano State and Nigeria at large,” he said.