By Otunba Ade Adeshina
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s local government reform policy represents a bold and transformative step toward strengthening democracy, empowering grassroots communities, and fostering sustainable development across Nigeria. At its core, this policy seeks to decentralize power and bring governance closer to the people. By granting local governments more autonomy, President Tinubu aims to ensure that the dividends of democracy reach even the most marginalized communities, paving the way for inclusive growth and development.
To fully appreciate the potential impact of this policy, it is essential to distinguish between the qualities of community builders, community leaders, born leaders, and self-serving leaders. It is also important to reflect on the examples of past and present global leaders who have significantly advanced their nations for the benefit of current and future generations.
Understanding Leadership: Builders vs. Leaders
1. Community Builders:
• These are individuals who focus on tangible and intangible development that uplifts both infrastructure and people.
• Their legacies often include improved roads, schools, hospitals, and other essential facilities, as well as fostering a culture of civic engagement and social harmony.
• Example: Nelson Mandela of South Africa, who rebuilt a fractured nation post-apartheid through reconciliation and inclusive governance.
2. Community Leaders:
• These individuals are often representatives of specific groups or communities, advocating for their interests but sometimes limited by parochial concerns.
• While they may have influence, their vision can sometimes lack the breadth needed to drive nationwide transformation.
• Example: Tribal leaders or local activists who are significant in localized contexts but lack a larger national or global influence.
3. Born Leaders:
• Natural charisma and leadership qualities characterize these individuals, though their leadership style may not always yield long-term benefits.
• Example: Leaders like Napoleon Bonaparte, whose brilliance in leadership was offset by overreach and ultimate decline.
4. Self-Serving Leaders:
• These leaders prioritize personal gain over collective progress, often exploiting public resources and neglecting their constituencies.
• Example: Dictatorships across the globe that focus on enriching themselves rather than serving the people.
While no one is born perfect, true leaders evolve by learning from past mistakes and adapting their strategies to serve their people better. President Tinubu’s reforms are a step toward creating a system that encourages community builders rather than self-serving leaders.
Key Benefits of the Local Government Reform Policy
1. Direct Access to Resources for Local Governments:
• By granting autonomy, local governments will have direct control over their budgets and can allocate resources to meet the specific needs of their communities.
• This reduces bureaucracy and delays in development projects.
2. Strengthening Civic Participation:
• The establishment of grassroots residents’ associations will empower communities to hold local governments accountable.
• Increased civic engagement fosters transparency and ensures that development aligns with local priorities.
3. Improved Infrastructure and Service Delivery:
• Local governments will be better positioned to invest in critical infrastructure such as roads, schools, healthcare facilities, and water supply systems.
• Communities will benefit from quicker and more efficient service delivery.
4. Enhanced Oversight and Accountability:
• The creation of a separate Auditor General’s department with digitalized portals for federal, state, and local authorities ensures financial transparency and reduces corruption.
• Real-time monitoring of budgets and projects will improve efficiency.
5. Bridging the Gap Between Government and Citizens:
• By decentralizing governance, the policy fosters closer interaction between government officials and the people they serve.
• This helps build trust and ensures that governance reflects the values, culture, and traditions of local communities.
Global Examples of Nation-Building Leaders
1. Lee Kuan Yew (Singapore):
• Transformed Singapore from a struggling island nation into a global economic powerhouse through investments in education, infrastructure, and good governance.
2. Franklin D. Roosevelt (United States):
• His New Deal policies rebuilt the American economy during the Great Depression, laying the foundation for future growth and stability.
3. Paul Kagame (Rwanda):
• Rebuilt Rwanda after the 1994 genocide by focusing on national unity, economic development, and technological innovation.
4. Muhammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum (UAE):
• Spearheaded Dubai’s transformation into a global hub for tourism, trade, and innovation through visionary leadership and strategic planning.
5. Murtala Muhammed (Nigeria):
• Although his tenure was brief, his radical reforms and focus on discipline and accountability left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s governance.
6. Ibrahim Babangida (Nigeria):
• Successfully planned and executed the development of Abuja, establishing it as a model for urban infrastructure in Nigeria.
7. Nelson Mandela (South Africa):
• Unified a deeply divided nation, laying the groundwork for peace, reconciliation, and long-term growth.
Building a Legacy for Future Generations
President Tinubu’s local government reforms are a pivotal step toward creating a legacy that prioritizes the needs of the people over the ambitions of individuals. By promoting grassroots activism, fostering financial accountability, and empowering local governments, this policy can set the stage for a more inclusive and prosperous Nigeria.
For these reforms to succeed, all stakeholders must embrace the spirit of nation-building, prioritizing community development and future generations over personal or political gains. By learning from the successes of transformative leaders across the globe, Nigeria can pave the way for a brighter future where governance truly serves the people.
The journey has begun, and the responsibility lies with every Nigerian to ensure that this opportunity is not wasted.
Otunba Ade Adeshina, is a Radical Humanist and Director BTSO UK.
