Barely a week after a set of activists fired a warning note to President Tinubu and NASS leaders against Nigeria playing host to American and French military bases, a similar letter is landing on the table of the governors of the states in the old Northern region.
Dr Kabir Chafe, ABU, Zaria Historian and former oil minister who signed the letter to the governors as Chairman of Arewa Research and Development Project (ARDP) is calling for re-invention of governance in the region. In what seems the rebellious moment of those that are still organic scholars to recent discursive practices at all levels governments in Nigeria, the Chairman says the future of Northern Nigeria hangs in the balance, “challenged by a host of socio-economic and security issues that threaten the fabric of our communities and the stability of our region.”
For the record and for differing levels of interpretation, the open memo is published unedited below. Please, watch out for possible minor disarrangement of the text after the conversion of the PDF to word document
AREWA RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT PROJECT, No. 8 River Karama Close By Ishaku Road, Malali GRA Kaduna.
- HE Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri
The Governor of Adamawa State
- HE Bala Muhammed
The Governor of Bauch State
- HE Hycinth Alia
The Governor of Benue State
- HE Babagana Umara Zulum
The Governor of Borno State
- HE Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya
The Governor of Gombe State
- HE Umar Namadi
The Governor of Jigawa State
- HE Uba Sani
The Governor of Kaduna State
- HE Abba Kabir Yusuf
The Governor of Kano State
- HE Dikko Umaru Radda
The Governor of Katsina State
- HE Nasir Idris
The Governor of Kebbi State
- HE Ahmed Usman Ododo
The Governor of Kogi State
- HE AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq
The Governor of Kwara State
- HE. Abdullahi Sule
The Governor of Nasarawa State
- HE Mohammed Umar Bago
The Governor of Niger State
- HE Caleb Muftwang
The Governor of Plateau State
- HE Ahmad Aliyu
The Governor of Sokoto State
- HE Agbu Kefas
The Governor of Taraba State
- HE Mai Mala Buni
The Governor of Yobe State
- HE Dauda Lawal
The Governor of Zamfara State
Your Excellencies,
AN OPEN MEMORANDUN ON URGENT NEED FOR RE-EVALUATION OF DEVELOPMENT AND SECURITY STRATEGIES IN NORTHERN NIGERIA
As we stand at a crossroads, the future of Northern Nigeria hangs in the balance, challenged by a host of socio-economic and security issues that threaten the fabric of our communities and the stability of our region. The weight of these challenges calls for leadership that is not only aware of the regional complexities but is also proactive in seeking and implementing solutions that are sustainable, inclusive, and grounded in the deep understanding of our unique circumstances.
The recent initiative by ten of your colleagues to engage with the United States Institute of Peace (USIP) in Washington, D.C., represents a significant attempt to draw upon international expertise and resources in addressing our challenges. This endeavor, aimed at exploring effective strategies to combat the instability and underdevelopment plaguing our region, underscores a commendable pursuit of global partnerships and solutions. However, this approach also invites a broader discussion on the most effective pathways to achieve the peace and prosperity that Northern Nigeria so earnestly needs.
While the intention behind seeking international dialogue and collaboration is understandable, it has sparked substantial discourse on several fronts. Among these are concerns regarding the alignment with constitutional roles and responsibilities, the prioritization of financial expenditures, and the potential overlooking of local capacities and solutions that are more attuned to the nuances of our regional challenges. Such concerns necessitate a thorough examination and reassessment of our strategies, ensuring they not only align with global best practices but are also deeply rooted in the realities of our communities.
The Arewa Research and Development Project (ARDP), committed to fostering sustainable development and comprehensive peace in Northern Nigeria, presents this memorandum as a constructive call to action. It is crafted with a spirit of respect, urgency, and unwavering hope in the capabilities and potential of our regional leadership. This memorandum invites each of you, the custodians of our region’s future, to reflect on the current approaches, consider the potent insights from within our own borders, and recalibrate your strategies in ways that genuinely meet the needs of the Northern Nigerian populace. It is a prompt to rethink not just the efficacy of international engagements but more importantly, to deepen investments in our local institutions, engage more constructively with our communities, and harness the rich array of local expertise available to us.
Addressing the multi-faceted challenges of Northern Nigeria requires a multifaceted approach that goes beyond seeking international insights and involves significant engagement at local, regional, and national levels. The alternative approaches outlined here focus on empowering local entities, engaging communities, enhancing economic opportunities, reforming security frameworks, collaborating with civil society, ensuring transparency, addressing root causes, and strengthening regional cooperation. Consequently therefore, we present for your kind consideration alternative strategies that are not only more effective but also resonate deeply with the needs and aspirations of the people of Northern Nigeria.
- Strengthening Local Institutions and Expertise
Northern Nigeria is home to several institutions that play crucial roles in research, policy formulation, and governance. Notable among these are the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) and the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON). These institutions possess a deep understanding of local challenges and hold the potential to generate solutions that are culturally and contextually relevant.
Northern Nigeria has a wealth of experts in various fields, from academics in universities to experienced practitioners in various sectors. Engaging these experts can be facilitated through establishment of advisory panels consisting of local experts to consult on policies and projects, holding regular meetings and forums where these experts can provide insights and feedback on ongoing initiatives. In addition, conducting workshops and seminars could serve multiple purposes. These events can educate stakeholders about new research, policies, and best practices. They provide a platform for professionals to network, which can lead to collaborations and partnerships. Workshops and seminars are excellent venues for collecting feedback from a diverse group of stakeholders, which can inform policy adjustments and project designs.
The states can thus engage into Policy Development through inclusive policymaking process which prioritize public consultations and stakeholder mapping. This means, before finalizing any policy, conducting public consultations to gather input and feedback from the community, as well as identifying all relevant stakeholders and ensuring that their perspectives are considered in the policy formulation process.
- Community Involvement
Community involvement is pivotal in addressing the socio-economic and security challenges of Northern Nigeria. It ensures that the solutions are not only sustainable but are also embraced by the people they are meant to serve. States will have to explore strategies to maximize community participation in governance and development processes, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of initiatives aimed at improving conditions in Northern Nigeria.
Understanding the importance of integrating community input into decision-making processes is crucial. Solutions derived from community input are more likely to address the actual needs and circumstances of the people. When communities are involved in the planning and implementation of projects, it fosters trust between the community members and the government or institutions. Community-driven solutions tend to have greater sustainability because the community takes ownership and responsibility for the outcomes.
The states would need to establish effective communication channels by creating Community Forums where community members can regularly meet to discuss issues, propose solutions, and receive updates on ongoing projects is essential. These forums should be inclusive that ensure representation from all segments of the community, including minority women and youth. They should be regularly scheduled by holding forums at regular intervals to maintain a continuous dialogue. The forums should be facilitated by neutral parties to ensure objectivity and fairness in discussions. In addition, states should implement effective feedback mechanisms that allow communities to express their
views on government initiatives and their impact. This can be achieved through regular surveys to gauge community satisfaction and gather input on various issues.
It is important to realize that involving community members in the planning and execution of projects ensures that the initiatives are well-adapted to local needs. Community involvement should not end with the implementation of projects. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation are critical to ensure the projects are achieving their intended outcomes. Highlighting success stories from within Northern Nigeria and other regions can serve as powerful motivation and provide a template for replication.
While community involvement has many benefits, it also faces several challenges: One, managing large and diverse groups of people can be challenging, especially in remote areas. Two, overcoming cultural norms that may hinder the participation of certain groups, such as women or ethnic minorities. Three, some community members may be resistant to new ideas or skeptical of outside interventions. However, there are measures that can mitigate these challenges. These may include capacity building training of community leaders and facilitators to manage and lead community projects effectively; sensitive training programs to educate on the importance of inclusivity and respect for all community members; and, maintaining transparency in all actions and being consistent in following through with commitments.
Community involvement is more than a beneficial strategy; it is a fundamental necessity for fostering sustainable development and peace in Northern Nigeria. By actively engaging local communities in the identification, planning, execution, and evaluation of projects, governments and organizations can ensure that initiatives are not only effective but are also embraced by those they aim to help. This engagement goes beyond mere participation—it fosters a sense of ownership among community members, which is crucial for the long-term success and sustainability of development efforts.
For Northern Nigeria to navigate the complexities of its socio-economic and security challenges, it must leverage one of its greatest assets—its people. The strategies discussed, emphasizing enhanced communication, robust community participation, and continuous feedback loops, are not merely theoretical. They are proven tactics that, when implemented effectively, can transform the landscape of development in any region. Moving forward, it is imperative that these strategies are not only adopted but also adapted to fit the unique cultural, social, and economic fabrics of Northern Nigerian communities. Through committed, comprehensive, and community-centric approaches, the potential for a stable and prosperous Northern Nigeria is within reach. This approach doesn’t just solve problems—it builds a foundation for a resilient and vibrant society, poised for growth and ready to face the challenges of tomorrow.
- Economic Empowerment
Economic empowerment is crucial for addressing the root causes of poverty, unemployment, and social unrest in Northern Nigeria. By focusing on initiatives that enhance economic stability, regions can achieve significant improvements in living standards and security. The Northern states need to explore strategies and programs aimed at fostering economic empowerment through job creation, support for entrepreneurship, investment in infrastructure, and development of the agricultural sector. Economic empowerment involves providing individuals and communities with the opportunities and resources they need to boost their economic status. This can be achieved through: One, Education and Skill Development designed to equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to participate effectively in the economy. Two, Access to Resources by ensuring that people have access to financial resources, land, technology, and other critical inputs. Three, Supportive Policy Environment through creating a regulatory and policy framework that fosters economic growth and entrepreneurship.
There are four core areas to consider here. The first is Job Creation Initiatives. This is focused on investing in vocational training and education, which is essential for preparing the workforce to meet the needs of the economy. Initiatives can include building and funding state-of-the-art technical schools that offer training in trades and technologies relevant to the local and global market demands as well as developing partnerships with local and international businesses to provide on-the-job training and apprenticeships. Also, the states should provide entrepreneurship and SME support. Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of many economies, particularly in developing regions. Supporting these enterprises involves establishing microfinance institutions that provide small loans to entrepreneurs and small businesses at favorable interest rates, as well as offering consulting, advisory, and other support services to help SMEs grow and become more efficient.
The second core area to consider is Infrastructure Development. Robust infrastructure is a cornerstone of economic development, and the key areas of focus should include improving road connectivity between rural and urban areas to facilitate easier movement of goods and people, as well as developing efficient public transport systems that can reduce costs and improve accessibility for workers and businesses. In addition, governments should make adequate investments in utilities and energy. Investing in reliable and sustainable energy sources to provide consistent power supply is crucial for business operations. Enhancing water supply and sanitation facilities to improve health outcomes and productivity.
The third core area is Agricultural Development. Agriculture remains a critical sector in Northern Nigeria, employing a large portion of the population. Empowering this sector involves modernization and mechanization, which means providing access to modern tools by providing farmers with access to modern farming equipment and technology to increase productivity. This is to be augmented with modern agricultural practices, crop rotation, and sustainable farming techniques. In addition, adequate attention should also be given to market access and value addition. This can be achieved through encouraging the formation of cooperative societies that can help farmers pool resources and access markets more effectively, and also by establishing local processing facilities to add value to agricultural products that can significantly increase farmers’ incomes. Through adopting Agribusiness Support Programs, within the context of their endowed resources, Northern states can scale up sustainable agricultural practices; expand access to local, regional, and international markets; foster innovation and entrepreneurship; as well as support the growth and development of non- agricultural sectors. The aggregate results will lead to building resilient local economic systems in Northern Nigeria.
The fourth core area to focus is on Addressing (Contextual) Challenges to Economic Empowerment. While the path to economic empowerment is promising, it is fraught with challenges that need to be addressed effectively. There is the challenge of financial inclusion as many individuals and small
businesses in Northern Nigeria lack access to banking and credit services. This can be addressed by expanding mobile banking services, setting up community banks, and providing financial literacy education can help improve financial inclusion. There is the challenge of policy and governance where Inconsistent policies, corruption, and inefficient bureaucracies can hinder economic development. This can be mitigated through Streamlining business registration processes, enforcing anti-corruption laws, and implementing stable economic policies are critical.
Economic empowerment in Northern Nigeria requires a comprehensive approach that includes enhancing education and skills, supporting SMEs, improving infrastructure, and modernizing agriculture. By fostering an environment that encourages innovation, supports sustainable practices, and promotes inclusive growth, Northern Nigeria can achieve substantial economic development. This development will not only improve the standard of living for its citizens but also contribute to regional stability and security. The strategies outlined are ambitious but necessary for transforming the economic landscape of Northern Nigeria. The success of these initiatives will depend on the collaboration between governments, businesses, community leaders, and international partners. With a sustained commitment to these principles, Northern Nigeria can look forward to a future of prosperity and peace.
- Security Reforms
Security remains a critical concern in Northern Nigeria, with ongoing challenges such as insurgency, communal violence, and banditry severely impacting the region’s stability and development. Comprehensive security reforms are essential not only for restoring peace but also for laying the foundation for sustainable economic growth and social cohesion. The Northern states must delve into the multifaceted approach required to reform the security sector in Northern Nigeria, focusing on community engagement, professionalization of the local community security outfits, legal and policy reforms, and the integration of technology in security strategies.
In effect, security reforms in Northern Nigeria need to address both the symptoms and root causes of insecurity. This involves: 1) Community-Centric Approaches, by engaging communities as active participants in their security rather than passive recipients; 2) Professionalization and Capacity Building to enhance the professional capabilities of local community security outfits through training and better resources; 3) Legal and Policy Framework, that is, reforming the legal and policy frameworks to ensure they are robust, just, and transparent; and, 4) Technology Integration, which is leveraging technology to improve intelligence gathering, surveillance, and accountability.
The most urgent program for the Northern states to proper implement is the Community Policing. Community policing is a strategy that fosters a cooperative relationship between the police and the community it serves. By building trust and mutual respect, community policing can significantly enhance the effectiveness of law enforcement and provision of security. The principles of community policy are regular interaction between police and community members to discuss local problems and develop solutions; collaborating with community members, local organizations, and other stakeholders to implement security measures; and addressing the underlying issues that contribute to local crime rather than merely responding to incidents.
In implementing community policing strategy, it is essential to develop training programs for community police officers on community policing principles, emphasizing communication, empathy, and community engagement. There should be regularly scheduled meetings between police and community members to foster a dialogue about safety and security. The strategy must factor integrating community representatives into policing strategy meetings to ensure community voices are heard and considered. To effectively combat security challenges, security forces must be well- trained, disciplined, and equipped with the necessary skills. To this end, the training and development programs should include both basic training, specialized training, and continuing education. Basic training programs should include modern policing techniques, human rights, and ethical policing. Specialized training is to be provided in areas such as rural banditry/kidnappings, intelligence gathering/analysis, and technology surveillance. Continuing education is to institutionalize and encourage continuing education and professional development opportunities for all levels of community police/security personnel.
Establishing robust accountability mechanisms is crucial to ensure that community police operate within the law and maintain public trust. There should be internal affairs units to investigate allegations of misconduct thoroughly and transparently. External oversight by independent bodies, including civilian review boards should be put in place. Implementing regular public reporting on the activities and performance of security agencies to maintain transparency as a public reporting mechanism is also important.
In implementing community policing strategy, regular reviews and revisions of existing security policies and laws are necessary to adapt to changing security dynamics. There should be legislative review through conducting comprehensive reviews of security-related legislation to ensure they are up-to-date and effective. Policy updates should also be undertaken to reflect best practices in human rights and conflict resolution. In addition, stakeholder involvement through the process of involving a wide range of stakeholders, including legal experts, community leaders, and international advisors, in the policy revision process is necessary. Strengthening the legal frameworks that govern the actions of community police/security personnel can help prevent abuses and improve overall security. States must establish clear guidelines for the use of force and detention; ensure robust judicial oversight of security operations to prevent overreach and protect citizens’ rights; and enshrine the protection of civil and human rights in all security operations.
The path to achieving sustainable peace and security in Northern Nigeria is through a holistic approach that considers both the enforcement of law and the promotion of justice. The involvement of the community is crucial in this process, as it helps to tailor the security measures to the specific needs and contexts of the areas affected. Community policing should serve as the cornerstone of this strategy, fostering a climate of trust and cooperation between the community police/security forces and the communities they serve.
Professionalization of the security forces is equally important. This involves not only rigorous training and adherence to a high standard of conduct but also ensuring that these forces are equipped with the necessary tools and technologies to effectively perform their duties. Accountability mechanisms must be robust and transparent, ensuring that any abuse of power is swiftly and fairly dealt with, thus maintaining the integrity of the security institutions.
Legal and policy reforms must continuously evolve to adapt to new challenges and ensure that security practices are in line with international human rights standards. This includes revising outdated laws, creating new policies that address current issues, and ensuring that all measures respect the rights and dignity of all citizens.
Technology also plays a crucial role in modern security operations. By enhancing surveillance, improving communication, and facilitating data-driven decision-making, technology can significantly boost the efficiency and effectiveness of security measures. However, it is vital to balance the use of technology with respect for privacy and civil liberties, ensuring that technological tools are used responsibly and ethically.
Therefore, security reforms in Northern Nigeria require a multi-dimensional approach that integrates community input, professional and accountable security practices, thoughtful legal governance, and innovative technology. By committing to these comprehensive reforms, Northern Nigeria can hope to achieve not only a reduction in violence and conflict but also a foundation for lasting peace and prosperity. This transformation will contribute to the stability of the region, enhancing the quality of life for all its residents and setting a precedent for other regions facing similar challenges.
- Collaboration with Civil Society
Collaboration between government agencies and civil society organizations (CSOs) is a cornerstone for effective governance and sustainable development, particularly in regions grappling with significant social and economic challenges like Northern Nigeria. CSOs include a broad range of organizations such as non-governmental organizations (NGOs), community groups, faith-based organizations, professional associations, and foundations that work on a wide array of issues from humanitarian aid and development to advocacy and policy reform. This collaboration fosters transparency, increases societal trust, and leverages the unique strengths of each sector to address complex regional issues comprehensively.
Civil society in Northern Nigeria plays a critical role in the socio-political landscape, providing services, advocating for policy changes, and acting as a watchdog to promote transparency and accountability in government operations. Their deep community ties and on-the-ground insights make them invaluable partners in designing and implementing community-centric solutions.
State governments in Northern Nigeria will benefit from implementing strategies for effective collaboration with the Civil Society. For successful collaboration, establishing trust and mutual respect between government agencies and CSOs is essential. This relationship can be nurtured through organized regular dialogue and forums where both parties can discuss ongoing issues, share insights, and update each other on progress; implementing projects that require inputs from both government and civil society, fostering a sense of partnership; and promotion of transparency in the conduct of public affairs, particularly concerning project funding and implementation strategies.
In summary, collaboration between government and civil society in Northern Nigeria is not just beneficial; it is essential for addressing the complex challenges facing the region. By leveraging the strengths of civil society—including their grassroots reach, specialized knowledge, and capacity for advocacy—alongside the authority and resources of government, more sustainable and impactful
outcomes can be achieved. These collaborations should be characterized by mutual respect, shared goals, transparency, and continual learning. As both sectors learn to navigate their differences and align their efforts, the potential for transformative change increases. This approach not only enhances the effectiveness of individual projects but also contributes to building a more cohesive, inclusive, and resilient society.
- Regional Cooperation
Regional cooperation in Northern Nigeria is essential for addressing cross-border challenges and maximizing shared opportunities among neighboring states and geo-political zones. Regional cooperation can significantly enhance stability by addressing issues that cross states’ boundaries, such as banditry/kidnappings, illegal arms trafficking, and environmental challenges. Collaborative efforts allow for shared resources and coordinated strategies, increasing the effectiveness of responses to these complex issues. By collaborating regionally, states can create larger markets, and attract investment more effectively than they could independently. Regional economic initiatives can lead to improved infrastructure, increased trade, and the development of regional value chains that benefit all participating states. Regional cooperation facilitates social and cultural exchanges that can foster mutual understanding and respect among diverse communities. These exchanges contribute to peacebuilding and the strengthening of regional identities, promoting unity and reducing conflicts.
The regional cooperation should provide Joint Security Initiatives through coordinating community police operations across borders to combat shared security threats such as rural banditry/kidnappings and organized crime, as well as establishing mechanisms for sharing intelligence efficiently among states to preempt and respond to security threats promptly. The initiative should focus on joint training programs through conducting joint training programs for community police personnel to standardize procedures and foster camaraderie among neighboring states’ security personnel. It should also support initiatives to build capacity in weaker areas of participating states, ensuring that all are equally prepared to handle regional security challenges.
The regional cooperation should also aim at promoting economic integration with joint agreement(s) and participation on infrastructural development and resource management. This means developing infrastructure projects that benefit multiple states, such as highways, railways, and energy pipelines, to enhance connectivity at the regional level or sub-regional levels. It also extends to coordinating efforts to secure funding and investment for regional projects, including the use of international aid and private sector investment. The regional body can also collaborate on initiatives to protect and manage the environment, including water resources management, forest conservation, and wildlife protection. On climate change adaptation and mitigation, the regional body can develop regional strategies for climate change adaptation and mitigation, pooling resources, and expertise to tackle environmental changes effectively.
Regional cooperation in Northern Nigeria is not merely beneficial; it is necessary for addressing the myriad challenges that transcend states’ boundaries. Through collaborative efforts in security, economic development, environmental management, and cultural exchange, Northern Nigeria can achieve greater stability, prosperity, and social cohesion. These efforts require commitment, strategic planning, and sustained engagement from all participating states to ensure that the benefits of cooperation are realized fully and equitably.
Collaborative initiatives must be built on a foundation of mutual respect, trust, and a shared vision for the future. By embracing a cooperative approach, states in the region can leverage their collective strengths to tackle challenges that no single state can overcome alone. This includes not only addressing immediate concerns like security threats and unemployment but also preparing collaboratively for long-term issues such as climate change and regional economic shifts. Furthermore, success in regional cooperation relies heavily on effective communication and the implementation of robust mechanisms for conflict resolution. Disagreements and challenges will inevitably arise, and having strong systems in place to manage these effectively is crucial for maintaining the integrity and productivity of regional partnerships.
Education also plays a vital role in reinforcing these relationships, helping to break down stereotypes and build a foundation of mutual understanding among the populations of the participating states. Reinventing public education and regional education, with concomitant cultural exchanges, can foster a sense of regional identity and solidarity, which is essential for the long-term sustainability of cooperative efforts.
To truly capitalize on the benefits of regional cooperation, Northern Nigeria must also ensure inclusive participation, integrating not just government entities but also private sectors, civil societies, and local communities in the dialogue and decision-making processes. This inclusivity enhances the relevance and acceptability of cooperative projects and policies, ensuring they meet the diverse needs and expectations of all stakeholders involved.
In summary, regional cooperation offers a pathway toward a more secure, prosperous, and harmonious Northern Nigeria. By continuously cultivating and strengthening these cooperative ties, the region can unlock potential synergies that pave the way for a brighter collective future. The lessons learned and successes achieved through regional cooperation can serve as a model for other regions facing similar challenges, demonstrating the power of collective action in overcoming obstacles and achieving common goals.
General Conclusion
As we conclude this memorandum, we are compelled to confront a fundamental truth that has shaped the trajectory of governance in our region for over three decades. The administrative machinery of government in almost all the states of Northern Nigeria has been persistently disoriented by partisan interference. This disruption has undermined the civil service’s capacity, leadership, and direction, eroding the foundational elements essential for effective governance. Unfortunately, in most states, the civil service, which should serve as the backbone of governmental operations, lacks the necessary capacity, leadership, and direction to function effectively. It has been hollowed out by years of neglect and political manipulation, which has prioritized short-term gains over long-term planning and development. This degradation of our administrative systems has rendered them unable to implement policies efficiently or respond adequately to the needs of our people.
It is against this backdrop that the need for a comprehensive re-invention of the governance structures in Northern Nigeria becomes not just necessary but critical. This re-invention must encompass both form and essence, reshaping how governance is perceived and practiced across our states. We must build governance structures that are immune to undue political influence, structures that champion
professionalism and are driven by a commitment to serve the public good above all else. Therefore, some strategic recommendations for re-inventing governance become inevitable. We thus suggest the following for your consideration:
- Structural Reforms: Implement deep structural reforms that minimize political interference in the civil service, ensuring that appointments, promotions, and operations are based on merit, competence, and adherence to regulatory frameworks.
- Capacity Building: Invest significantly in building the capacity of the civil service by providing continuous professional development, fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and ethical governance.
- Leadership Development: Establish institutes of governance and leadership that can train and develop current and future leaders in modern governance practices, focusing on transparency, accountability, and strategic planning.
- Regulatory and Policy Overhaul: Revise existing policies and regulations to ensure they arerobust enough to support a reformed governance structure. This includes strengthening laws against corruption, enhancing financial regulations, and instituting clear guidelines for public sector accountability.
- Community-Centric Governance: Shift towards a more community-centric governance model that actively involves the populace in decision-making This can be achieved through decentralized governance, participatory budgeting, and the establishment of community advisory boards.
- Leveraging Technology: Embrace technological solutions to enhance governance processes, improve service delivery, and facilitate greater public This includes the development of e-government platforms that can help reduce bureaucratic bottlenecks and improve access to government services.
The journey to re-inventing governance in Northern Nigeria is undoubtedly a challenging one. It requires a bold vision, unwavering commitment, and an unrelenting pursuit of excellence. As leaders of this great region, you hold the keys to initiating these transformative changes. By redefining governance, not only in form but in essence, you can lay the foundation for a system that truly serves the needs of its people, one that is capable of implementing the strategies and recommendations outlined in this memorandum.
As we extend our deepest respects and heartfelt prayers to you, we equally harbor a steadfast hope and express the collective aspiration of the people of Northern Nigeria, who look to you for leadership and transformative action. May you be graced with profound vision and unwavering commitment, empowering you to lift our region from the depths of its current challenges and to pioneer the establishment of a new social and economic order. It is our sincere belief that under your stewardship, Northern Nigeria will witness a renaissance of prosperity and stability. We trust that you will lead with integrity and foresight, ensuring that the actions taken today will lay a robust foundation for a future that honors the aspirations of all its citizens.
Yours faithfully,
Kabiru Sulaiman Chafe
For and on behalf of Arewa Research and Development Project (ARDP)
5th May 2024
