Chris Okpoko
Speaking at the recent Nigeria–Brazil Business Forum in Abuja, themed “Roots to Revenue: The Nigeria–Brazil Corridor,” Vice President Kashim Shettima said that Nigeria is undergoing a process of transformation under President Bola Tinubu, with efforts focused on rebuilding institutions, refocusing policy, and opening markets. He described the country’s current direction as deliberate and grounded in long-term goals. The Vice President said Nigeria welcomes partnerships in human capital development, particularly in vocational training, research, and technical exchange. “We welcome the opportunity for institutional partnerships that promote training, research, and the exchange of knowledge in sectors where Brazil has built strength, and in areas where Nigeria is gaining ground.”
Similarly, at a public presentation of a book entitled; ‘Nine Lives: The Bello-Fadile Memoirs,’ authored by Babatunde Bello-Fadile, a retired colonel of the Nigerian Army, and held at the Shehu Yar’adua Centre, Abuja, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adewole Adebayo, stated that for effective protection of democracy in the country as well as lives and property, Nigeria needs to rebuild its military institutions. He said the problem of insecurity across Nigeria today can be traced to institutional deficiencies and indiscipline among those who are saddled with the responsibilities of steering the wheel of state. According to him, Nigeria needs to rebuild its civil service, Justice System, industrial sector, and military institutions.
The problem of institutional inefficiency in Nigeria presents formidable challenges that hinder the nation’s progress. Rooted in corruption, poor governance, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of skilled personnel, this inefficiency manifests in economic stagnation, inadequate public services, and the erosion of public trust. Consequently, enhancing institutional efficiency in Nigeria is a multifaceted endeavor that requires a holistic approach. By promoting transparency and accountability, leveraging technology, investing in human resources, encouraging collaborative governance, strengthening legal frameworks, fostering performance measurement, and embracing decentralization, Nigeria can build a resilient institutional architecture that supports development.
As the nation grapples with numerous challenges, the path forward lies in committing to reforms that empower institutions to serve the public effectively and efficiently. Ultimately, a concerted effort towards improving institutional efficiency will not only bolster economic growth but also foster a culture of good governance, restoring citizens’ faith in their institutions, and laying the foundation for a prosperous future.
The institutions of a country encompassing political, economic, social, and legal frameworks play a critical role in shaping governance, ensuring stability, and promoting development. However, the nation grapples with a myriad of challenges, which stem largely from the weakness of its institutions.
The deterioration of institutions in Nigeria can be traced back to several historical, political, and socio-economic factors. Since gaining independence in 1960, Nigeria has endured a series of military coups, political instability, and corruption, all of which have eroded public trust in governmental institutions. These challenges are further compounded by ethnic and religious divisions, which complicate national cohesion and solidify a culture of mistrust within the political arena.
Corruption remains one of the most debilitating issues facing Nigerian institutions. With perpetrators often going unpunished, the culture of impunity flourishes, undermining the rule of law and allowing corruption to seep into every layer of society. For instance, in the 2024 Transparency International Corruption Perception Index, Nigeria ranked 140th out of 180 countries, indicating a widespread perception of corruption in both public and private sectors. This disillusionment with institutions extends beyond politics; it affects sectors such as education, healthcare, and law enforcement, further anchoring Nigeria in a cycle of underdevelopment and instability.
The implications of weak institutions in Nigeria are far-reaching and multifaceted. First and foremost, the quality of governance suffers significantly. Effective governance is predicated on transparent and accountable institutions that prioritize the welfare of citizens. However, in Nigeria, the lack of accountability leads to mismanagement of public resources, which stifles growth and exacerbates poverty levels.
Moreover, social services such as education and healthcare are heavily impacted. Educational institutions remain underfunded and plagued by poor infrastructure and inadequate teaching staff. In 2024, Nigeria holds the top position globally for the highest number of out-of-school children. Approximately 18.3 million Nigerian children are to be out of school, according to a UNICEF report. This signifies a significant education crisis in the country, with serious implications for its future. Health institutions are similarly affected, resulting in a health crisis characterized by inadequate facilities and a shortage of skilled healthcare professionals.
Economically, weak institutions deter foreign investment, as investors seek environments characterized by stability, predictability, and integrity. Economic diversification, particularly efforts to reduce dependence on oil revenues, becomes an uphill battle when institutions cannot provide a reliable framework for business operations. The persistent insecurity fueled by terrorist groups like Boko Haram and rampant banditry further compounds these economic challenges, leading to a decline in both domestic and international investments.
Finally, the erosion of civic trust in institutions fosters disengagement among the populace. When citizens feel that their voices are not heard or that institutions do not represent their interests, apathy sets in, posing a significant threat to democracy. Low voter turnout during elections is symptomatic of this disenchantment, leading to a vicious cycle where elected officials lack legitimacy and are less inclined to serve the public interest.
Rebuilding institutions in Nigeria requires a multi-pronged approach that involves both short-term and long-term strategies across various sectors. Here are several key strategies:
- Strengthening the Rule of Law and Governance: A robust legal framework is essential for fostering accountability and transparency. Nigeria must prioritize judicial reforms that enhance the capacity, independence, and impartiality of the judiciary. Establishing fast-track courts to handle corruption cases can deter malfeasance and set precedents for accountability. Furthermore, strengthening law enforcement agencies through training and provision of adequate resources is crucial for restoring public faith in the justice system.
- Enhancing Civic Engagement: Civic education programs must be designed to encourage active participation among citizens. By informing the public about their rights and responsibilities, as well as the importance of civic engagement, Nigerians can become catalysts for change. Encouraging grassroots movements and civil society organizations to demand accountability from leaders can also shift the culture towards greater transparency.
Collaborative governance involves partnerships between government institutions, civil society, the private sector, and citizens. By fostering collaboration, Nigeria can tap into diverse perspectives and expertise, ultimately driving efficiency. Establishing multi-stakeholder forums facilitates dialogue, enabling various actors to share their insights and work collectively towards common goals. For example, the successful implementation of community-driven development projects demonstrates how collaboration can harness local knowledge while addressing specific needs. To this end, Government agencies should actively engage with civil society organizations and the private sector to co-create policies and programs. Such partnerships can also leverage additional resources, extending the reach and effectiveness of institutional initiatives.
- Institutional Capacity Building: It is imperative to invest in human capital development within key institutions. Training programs for civil servants and leadership development initiatives can create a workforce that is not only skilled but also imbued with the values of integrity and service. Partnerships with international development agencies can facilitate knowledge exchange and best practices. An efficient institution relies heavily on the quality of its human resources. Nigeria must invest in the continuous training and development of its workforce to enhance institutional efficiency. This encompasses not only formal education but also professional development programs aimed at improving skills relevant to public service.
Developing a merit-based recruitment system can attract competent individuals into public service. Implementing performance management systems that reward efficiency and innovation can boost morale among civil servants. Furthermore, fostering a culture of continuous learning and adaptability within institutions encourages employees to embrace change and pursue excellence.
- Decentralization of Power: Another avenue to explore in institution rebuilding is the decentralization of political power. Empowering local governments can lead to better responsiveness to community needs, thus enhancing governance at the grassroots level. Local governments should have the autonomy to implement policies that suit their unique contexts, ultimately promoting ownership of development processes. For decentralization to be effective, it must be accompanied by adequate funding and resources. Capacity-building initiatives for local government officials are essential, ensuring they possess the necessary skills and knowledge to govern efficiently. Citizen participation in local governance through mechanisms like town hall meetings can enhance accountability and ensure that the needs of the populace are met.
- Promoting Inclusivity and National Cohesion: Addressing ethnic and religious disparities is vital to rebuilding institutions that serve all Nigerians equitably. Promoting policies that embrace inclusivity in political representation and resource allocation can mitigate tensions and foster national unity. Embracing diversity as a strength rather than a divisive element is key to building a cohesive society.
- Promoting Transparency and Accountability: A key factor in enhancing institutional efficiency is the promotion of transparency and accountability. In Nigeria, corruption has long been a systemic issue that undermines institutional performance. Developing a robust framework for transparency can discourage corrupt practices. The establishment of independent anti-corruption agencies with the authority to prosecute and investigate allegations of misconduct is vital. Additionally, instituting transparency initiatives like open budgeting and public expenditure tracking can empower citizens. By making government financial operations visible, citizens become stakeholders who can hold institutions accountable. The Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) serves as an example of how transparency can be integrated into the management of resources. Expanding such initiatives across various sectors can foster trust and enhance institutional credibility.
- Leveraging Technology: The rapid advancement of technology offers immense potential to boost institutional efficiency in Nigeria. Digital technologies can streamline processes, reduce bureaucratic delays, and improve service delivery. For instance, e-government platforms can transform how citizens interact with governmental agencies, from registering businesses to applying for permits. Investing in digital infrastructure is crucial. A reliable internet connection and access to digital tools enable the implementation of online services. Cybersecurity measures must also be prioritized to protect sensitive data and build public confidence in digital systems. Furthermore, data analytics can enhance decision-making by providing insights into trends and performance metrics, allowing institutions to adjust their strategies promptly.
The journey toward rebuilding institutions in Nigeria is undoubtedly fraught with challenges, yet it is a necessary pursuit for the nation’s progress and sustainable development. By addressing the root causes of institutional decay—such as corruption, lack of accountability, and social disengagement—Nigerians can forge a path toward a brighter future. Collaborative efforts from government, civil society, and grassroots movements can catalyze meaningful change and restore faith in institutions.
A nation’s strength lies in its institutions; hence, rebuilding them should be viewed not merely as an option, but as an imperative for realizing Nigeria’s vast potential. With a commitment to reform and a dedication to the principles of democracy and good governance, Nigeria can transform its landscape and emerge as a beacon of hope and progress in Africa.