Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, a former Minister of Education, has called for the establishment of laws and initiatives aimed at strengthening democracy across Africa.
Her remarks were made during a three-day African Conference organized by the School of Politics, Policy, and Governance (SPPG) in Abuja.
Ezekwesili highlighted the need for a transparent political framework supported by capable leaders who can effectively tackle the continent’s pressing social and economic challenges for democracy to thrive.
At the conference, themed “Good Governance In Africa: Leaders and Citizens Driving Systemic Change,” she explained that the gathering was designed to cultivate young leaders from 20 African nations, equipping them with the mindset needed to enhance governance standards.
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“What we are doing is correcting not just the supply side by having a school that raises a new generation of politicians who will govern for the public good, but we are also concentrating on political literacy for the demand side, empowering citizens to recognize their influence in shaping the quality of governance,” Ezekwesili stated.
She urged African leaders to prioritize the continent’s overall development in their decision-making processes, emphasizing that governance should extend beyond immediate communities.
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“When governing, whether at local, state, or national levels, you do not just serve the people you see; you govern for Africa. It is crucial to adopt a mindset that seeks African solutions that are both impactful and interconnected,” she asserted.
Ezekwesili pointed out that academic research has consistently demonstrated that Africa’s development issues stem largely from a lack of good governance.
“If research identifies poor governance as the root of our challenges, sensible action must be taken to address it. The primary step involves fostering a completely new political culture and mindset,” she concluded.
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