Rescuing Nigeria: The Essential Role of Developmentalist Coalitions

Nigeria, endowed with rich resources, faces severe underdevelopment, marred by poverty, corruption, and violence. The formation of a developmentalist coalition is proposed to unify individuals committed to national progress through development nationalism. This coalition should work towards a robust economy and improved citizen welfare, transforming governance and serving the populace effectively.

Nigeria, despite its vast human and natural resources, continues to struggle with significant underdevelopment characterized by poverty, corruption, unemployment, and inequality. Increasing incidences of ethnic militias and terrorism, along with violent land disputes, exacerbate the nation’s challenges. Poor economic management, alongside ineffective political leadership, hinders the nation’s potential for structural transformation within both its economy and political landscape.

The crises within Nigeria stem, in my analysis as a political scientist, from the absence of a developmentalist coalition—a group prioritizing the nation’s welfare above personal interests. I advocate for the formation of such a coalition, driven by development nationalism, which involves uniting individuals motivated by the commitment to enhance their country toward collective progress.

This coalition must strive to amplify productivity and improve the well-being of citizens, thereby breaking the cycle of underdevelopment. Success can be gauged by establishing a reliable governance structure founded on the rule of law, as well as ensuring the availability of essential public goods.

Historically, developmentalist coalitions have influenced political and economic frameworks in successful nations such as China, Malaysia, and South Korea. These coalitions, often led by a developmentalist elite who may form a political party, ensure adherence to core principles instrumental in national development. Such leaders provide the moral and political guidance vital for fostering inclusive institutions aimed at economic growth.

Since Nigeria’s independence in 1960, political leadership has largely failed to act in a manner that represents national interests, leading to economic stagnation and a lack of job creation, particularly within the declining manufacturing sector. Addressing the needs of the education sector remains critical, as less funding is allocated than the UNESCO-recommended 26% of the national budget. As a consequence, Nigeria’s young population, comprising about 70% under the age of 30, is predominantly engaged in informal, unstable work.

Although there are individuals committed to development within Nigeria, they have yet to unify into an effective coalition, limiting their opportunity to invest in the populace and industrial growth. Currently, now is the opportune moment to form such a coalition to reshape the country’s governance and promote developmental goals.

To facilitate this change, a coalition of developmentalist elites must be established under visionary leadership focusing on national cohesion. The coalition could form a political party aimed at electoral competition and increasing political influence to advance national development. It is crucial for coalition members to prioritize the party’s objectives over personal ambitions, ensuring that the party serves the people’s needs.

The objective is to combat endemic corruption, enhance manufacturing capabilities, and build a thriving digital economy while promoting sectoral growth, infrastructure investment, and poverty reduction. Ultimately, the coalition must aim to create a democracy where political entities genuinely serve the citizens’ interests instead of perpetuating a cycle of self-serving agendas.

In conclusion, Nigeria’s path toward progress and development hinges on the establishment of a developmentalist coalition committed to prioritizing the nation’s interests. This coalition, characterized by shared vision and cooperation among like-minded individuals, would address the systemic issues of poverty, corruption, and unemployment. By focusing on governance reforms, economic diversification, and education enhancement, Nigeria can unlock its potential and secure a prosperous future for its citizens.

Original Source: theconversation.com