From Innovation to Impact: Rethinking Governance for a Sustainable Nigeria
megwara favour@favourmegwara336255
2 days ago
One thing I’ve observed about the Nigerian government is this: we’ve never lacked innovations. From the past to the present, and even looking forward, there will always be new ideas and initiatives. But what we truly lack is consistency. We need consistent follow-through. Many programs have been launched, ministries have been set up but who are the watchdogs? Who is responsible for monitoring and ensuring these initiatives are actually working?
We need to start focusing on deliberate consistency. Not just setting up ministries for the sake of it, but defining their purpose from the onset. Like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which have specific targets to meet within set timelines, our government ministries should have clear, measurable objectives. Ministries shouldn't just be initiative-oriented they must be goal-driven.
There should be performance benchmarks. For instance: “By the end of this year, this ministry must achieve XYZ.” And if those targets aren’t met, then it should either be restructured or reformed not just left to waste resources.
Most importantly, we need to appoint people not based on association or political ties, but based on competence and alignment with national goals. We need solution-driven leaders, experts in their fields, who are passionate about making progress and reforming institutions. That’s how we build structured, efficient governance.
Secondly, let’s direct our innovations to the right places. We are in the age of AI, and technological advancement is inevitable. I saw a recent call by the government to regulate social media, and honestly, I felt it was a misplaced priority. Rather than clamp down on free expression, why don’t we capitalize on these technologies for national development?
Our security forces have struggled with manpower. We’ve lost many soldiers to terrorism and insurgency. If manpower isn’t yielding results, why don’t we shift to intelligence? Why don’t we deploy AI to track criminal networks and secure our country more effectively?
Imagine an intelligence-first military equipped not just physically but intellectually. That’s the future. AI can enhance surveillance, communication, analysis and save lives. Let’s rethink our security strategy with technology at its core.
In terms of food security, Nigeria is rich in natural resources. We produce rice, among other crops. Why are we still import-dependent when we can become a major exporting nation? I often say: agriculture is Nigeria’s new oil. And if oil has mostly empowered corruption, why not shift our focus to a more inclusive and productive sector?
Let’s modernize agriculture. Bring intelligence into it. Empower rural dwellers who may not have access to formal education give them tools, training, and opportunities. Let’s create connections between them and their local leaders. These communities deserve more than just visits during election campaigns.
With a refined agricultural strategy, Nigeria can generate sustainable revenue and reduce our dependence on imports freeing up resources for other critical sectors.
Now, let’s talk about governance. Who are the people running our government? Many Nigerians shy away from politics because of corruption and disillusionment. But we need to reform not just politics, but the idea of politics itself. This must begin with education.
Let’s integrate political education into our school systems and public discourse. Citizens need to understand that politics isn’t just a game for power-hungry elites it’s a system designed to bridge the people and their government. When citizens are informed, they are empowered to choose leaders who truly represent them.
We must push for transparency and accountability starting from the civil service, judiciary, executive, and legislature. Every branch of government must be answerable to the people.
Lastly, we need to strengthen our institutions and diversify our priorities. Let’s stop investing energy into distractions. Let’s put our national focus on what we need as a nation not just what is convenient or politically expedient.
© Megwara Favour 2025
