In March 2023, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu realized his lifelong ambition of becoming Nigeria’s president-elect. He assured Nigerians his administration would be not only a government of national unity but also of national competence.
On March 16, 2023, Tinubu released a statement titled “Nigeria: At the Cusp of Renewed Hope,” promising to assemble competent men, women, and young people from across the country to build a safer, more prosperous, and just Nigeria. He committed to double-digit GDP growth, greater food security, a strengthened manufacturing base, and an active digital economy.
He urged Nigerians to shun partisanship and work together. “I am committed to getting the work done for the benefit of all people, whether they voted for me or not. Unity and national commitment can serve that purpose,” Tinubu stated.
He emphasized, “I realize that I am the servant of a larger purpose. We have important work to do. My team and I have been refining our ideas and policy solutions to work toward the common good from day one. This great project called Nigeria beckons us all.”
Tinubu also called for competence in government. “As your incoming president, I accept the task before me. There has been talk of a government of national unity. My aim is higher. I seek a government of national competence,” he said. He vowed to select officials based on ability and performance, not political gamesmanship.
However, some critics argue that Tinubu has not yet achieved this goal. They point out that many economic challenges remain unaddressed. Despite promising a government of competence, some say Tinubu’s administration is filled with public relations experts rather than capable officials.
Critics argue that Tinubu should focus on significant achievements rather than quick wins. They urge him to pay attention to feedback from citizens who struggle with high food prices and other economic hardships.
Tinubu is also advised to address issues within the federal civil service. Many believe that without a vibrant civil service supported by a competent presidential bureaucracy, there will be no hope renewed in any agenda.
Some have noted that only three ministers out of more than forty may have done well, indicating a need for a significant shake-up within the government. They also point out issues within the Central Bank’s executive cadre, which is said to have mismanaged many portfolios.
The federal civil service also requires an overhaul. Public policy experts have repeatedly called for a more competent and efficient bureaucracy. They argue that without such a civil service, the government’s policy thrust for service delivery will continue to be ineffective.
Tinubu’s administration has also been criticized for its handling of education and health sectors. Critics argue that comprehensive and robust funding for quality education is essential for building national competence. They question the delay in appointing a substantive Executive Secretary for the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the activation of Adeyemi Federal University of Education, Ondo, and Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education Owerri.
For Tinubu to fulfill his promise of a government of national competence, he must address these issues. He needs to focus on human capital development, particularly in education and health. He must ensure that the federal bureaucracy is competent and efficient and that his administration is filled with capable officials rather than public relations experts.
Tinubu’s vision of a government of national competence is admirable. However, he must take concrete steps to achieve it. He must focus on significant achievements, address issues within the federal civil service, and ensure comprehensive and robust funding for quality education. Only then can he build the Nigeria he envisions.
While Tinubu’s commitment to a government of national competence is commendable, much work remains. His administration must address economic challenges, improve the federal civil service, and focus on human capital development. By doing so, Tinubu can fulfill his promise and build a safer, more prosperous, and just Nigeria.
Source: The Guardian
