Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has called for greater accountability from both Nigeria’s leaders and its citizens, stressing that the country’s socio-political challenges cannot be solved by foreign intervention. He made this assertion while delivering the keynote address at the Freedom Online 6th Yearly Lecture held at the Sheraton Lagos Hotel, Ikeja.
Speaking on the theme “Nigeria’s Socio-Political Challenges: Whose Fault, Leaders or the Led?”, Governor Fubara, represented by former Deputy Governor of Rivers State, Engineer Tele Ikuru, emphasized that Nigeria’s governance issues are a shared responsibility between leaders and citizens.
Nigeria’s Economic and Political Struggles
Governor Fubara highlighted several socio-political challenges that have stunted Nigeria’s development, including economic stagnation, corruption, insecurity, electoral malpractice, and weak institutions. Despite being rich in natural resources, he lamented that Nigeria continues to struggle with economic diversification, leading to high unemployment rates and youth restiveness.
“In Rivers State, we are addressing this by broadening our economic base through tourism, agriculture, and renewable energy,” he said.
Corruption, he noted, remains a major hindrance to national progress, citing mismanagement of public funds and lack of transparency in government contracts. He stressed the need for stronger institutions and better governance practices, stating that Rivers State has implemented a more accountable and competitive public procurement system to curb resource misallocation.
Fubara also decried the rising insecurity in the country, particularly insurgency in the Northeast and cult-related violence in the Niger Delta. He attributed some of these issues to political interference in law enforcement, which has worsened security challenges in states like Rivers.
The Role of Citizens in Governance
While acknowledging the failures of leadership, Governor Fubara also challenged Nigerian citizens to take responsibility for shaping the country’s future. He pointed out that leaders emerge from the society they govern and often reflect the values of the people.
“Nigerians must hold leaders accountable, demand good governance, and participate actively in the electoral process,” he stated. He criticized voter apathy, ethnic-based political support, and the culture of celebrating corrupt leaders, all of which undermine democracy and effective leadership.
Path Forward: A Call for Collective Action
Governor Fubara outlined key recommendations for addressing Nigeria’s governance crisis, including:
Prioritizing Public Interest: Government policies must focus on improving citizens’ lives.
Strengthening Institutions: Agencies like INEC, the judiciary, and security forces must operate independently, free from political interference.
Civic Education and Accountability: Citizens must be educated on their rights and responsibilities, and the media should play a central role in fostering transparency.
Ethical Leadership and Electoral Reform: Political parties must promote candidates based on competence and integrity, while efforts should be made to ensure free and fair elections.
Youth Empowerment: Addressing unemployment and investing in job creation will help reduce insecurity.
Governor Fubara reaffirmed Rivers State’s commitment to addressing these issues, citing initiatives like a 20,000-unit housing project for low-income workers, a revitalized primary healthcare system, and a strong emphasis on youth empowerment in the 2025 budget.
“Foreigners Will Not Fix Nigeria for Us”
In his closing remarks, Fubara made it clear that Nigeria’s challenges must be resolved by Nigerians themselves.
“Foreigners will not fix Nigeria for us. Until we take full ownership of our problems and solutions, the cycle of poor governance and underdevelopment will persist,” he warned.
He urged all stakeholders—leaders, citizens, civil society, and the media—to work together to change the nation’s trajectory.
The lecture, attended by political leaders, academics, media professionals, and members of civil society, sparked critical discussions on governance and accountability, reinforcing the need for a collective effort in building a better Nigeria.
