It is unconscionable, worrisome and unacceptable that FGN would allow such an industrial action to become almost intractable to the detriment of our students.
In conclusion, I feel strongly and can safely assert that the “Active Engagement by Nigeria Diaspora in Capacity Building and Civic Leadership in Nigeria” is possible and desirable.
It will take only one visionary leadership and disruptive thinker for Nigeria to be put back on the right trajectory. I know that with a robust diaspora support we can do it for Nigeria.
As we explore ways and means of tapping in on technology transfer from the Diaspora, we will also explore ways of reversing the enormous brain drain that has been debilitating for our country.
I see Diaspora remittances as the new normal and becoming Nigeria’s Official Development Assistance (ODA). In 2021 Nigeria’s foreign direct investment (FDI) was a paltry $4.8 billion compared to Diaspora remittances.
First, with $20 billion in remittances in 2021, Nigeria ranks 6th behind the top five recipient countries. Expert assessments are indicative that given the huge Nigerians in Diaspora population, the country has the potentials of receiving from the Diaspora,
Most of you are not here by choice. If things were better at home, you won't be here. But your role remains important in nation building.
The Nigeria Diaspora has capacity and therefore, must have a voice. By 2027 elections, Nigeria Diaspora must have a voice via absentee ballots.
Beyond their vital role of sending foreign remittances back home, the Diaspora are increasingly involved in advancing technology and skill transfer, strengthening democracy, opening up global supply chains,
Cognizant of the critical role national Diasporas can play, some countries have set up full ministries, departments, or agencies to engage their nationals in the Diaspora.
We will have zero tolerance for corruption; lock leakages and cut the cost of governance. Our total commitment to transparency and accountability in government business is the only credible way to achieve limited to zero corruption.
Human Capital Development
We will aggressively pursue human capital development in the education and health sectors within available resources; with a view to adopting pertinent global best practices in both sectors.
Africa will remain the centrepiece of our foreign policy. We will improve Nigeria’s diplomatic sphere of influence via peacekeeping, trade, and investment initiatives.
We will pursue aggressively modalities for raising the national internet penetration, as well as increased contribution of ICT to overall economic growth aid national development.
Bolstering our power sector is imperative. We intend to lay special emphasis on critical infrastructure, especially Power, to ensure a clear measurable increase of 200% of today’s generation
Accordingly, we will tackle insecurity robustly, through an aggressive increase in personnel and equipment and inclusive training of operatives in our security agencies.
The relevant security architecture, institutions and agencies exist. The supporting national security enabling documents and strategies also exist. The problem is with policy coherence, coordination and implementation.
We will pursue intangible assets of good governance, rule of law, security of lives and properties; and emphasize patriotism, national interest, and national morale, quality of government, political will and character, which are all complimentary to the other assets.
Thinking through 2023 and beyond, we must think seriously about a leadership that is imbued with competence, capacity, credibility and commitment. The 4 Cs, will be required to turn Nigeria around.
As we look toward 2023 and beyond, let me share with you my perspectives of our governance priorities.
Our vision and mission is to give full expression to our democracy by moving our country from consumption to production.
Nigeria today is not the Nigeria our founding fathers contemplated; it is not the Nigeria of our dreams. And it is certainly, not the Nigeria our youths hope and yearn for. All these means that we must fight for a new Nigeria.
Nigeria is vastly polarized and wracked by deep divisions along religious, ethnic and regional lines. There is a staggering level of corruption. Our universities have remained closed for six months.
Nigeria is at crossroads. Ravaging insecurity, largely inflicted by non-state actors, is fast threatening the sovereignty of Nigeria.
I have been asked to speak on “Active Engagement by Nigeria Diaspora in Capacity Building and Civic Leadership In Nigeria.” Before I do that, let me share briefly, my perspectives present day Nigeria and the way forward.
I am elated to be here. This hospitable City, Houston, is my fifth stop in an eight-day tour of eight cities, in three countries. It gives me personal joy always to meet with my fellow Nigerians and the many friends of Nigeria when I travel.
I thank the Organizers of this Dinner/Lecture and, especially Professor Fred Osadebe, who served as the Houston Coordinator and his team.
Even though the outlook seems bleak, especially with the present state of insecurity ad parlous economy, things, I am certain that with your avid prayers and contributions in both human and material terms, Nigeria will recover.
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