The Need for a Mindset Shift in Nigeria
Leaders and citizens across Nigeria have emphasized the critical need for a mindset shift to drive true development. This call was echoed during the Lagos edition of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group’s National Dialogue Series, under the Nigerian Hamilton Project, which is supported by the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) and the Gates Foundation.
The series was inspired by Prof. Osita Ogbu’s influential book, “Development as Attitude: How National Progress is Shaped by Leadership Philosophy and Citizens’ Orientation.” This work explores how leadership thinking, citizen participation, and collective action influence national development. It also reflects on Nigeria’s experiences alongside selected African countries to refine policy and development strategies.
The Vision Behind the Hamilton Project
According to Tayo Aduloju, the Chief Executive Officer of NESG, the Hamilton Project was conceptualized as a response to the need for change in Nigeria. He stated that economic policy alone would not be sufficient; rather, a transformation in mindsets and paradigms was essential. Aduloju highlighted that the project draws inspiration from Alexander Hamilton, where citizens and experts led robust national debates that shaped democracy. He noted that societies without such debates often struggle because bad ideas can negatively impact the many.
Leadership Philosophy and Citizen Orientation
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Lagos State Commissioner for Economic Planning, Ope George, emphasized that national progress depends on leadership philosophy and the mindset of the people. He described leadership as being about vision, consistency, and a focus on the well-being of the people. Sanwo-Olu stressed that while the government must lead with integrity, it is the actions and attitudes of citizens that ultimately complete the work of development.
He added that without a shared culture of care and responsibility, even the best public projects would fail to last. Sanwo-Olu pointed out that Lagos serves as a case study for this dialogue, where leadership, philosophy, and citizen orientation are evident in daily progress.
A Coherent National Ideology
Former Lagos Governor and former Minister of Works, Power and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, highlighted the lack of a coherent national ideology to serve as a rallying point. He suggested the entrenchment of the rule of law as a potential national ideology. Fashola questioned what "Nigerianness" means and urged reflection on the nation's creed, success, and vision.
He argued that a nation of laws could appeal to Nigerians and potentially make them richer than if they focused solely on prosperity. Fashola also mentioned the importance of having a stake in the nation, which drives citizenship responsibility.
The Role of Shame and Responsibility
Professor Osita Ogbu, the author of the book and Co-Chair of the NESG National Economic Advisory Council, emphasized the importance of a sense of shame in driving a new narrative in Nigeria. He stated that shame can act as a catalyst for change, urging people to rise and rebuild after suffering setbacks. Ogbu criticized the lack of accountability in Nigeria, citing examples such as the Olympics where no one took responsibility for the lack of medals.
Building Fundamentals for Growth
Abubakar Suleiman, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Sterling Bank, called for building the fundamentals that enable the nation to leapfrog. He clarified that leapfrogging does not mean ignoring fundamental processes but rather focusing on science, technology, research, and manufacturing. Suleiman highlighted the importance of these elements in creating products that meet global standards, using the Aba market as an example of the need for quality and quantity in production.
In conclusion, the discussions at the Nigerian Economic Summit Group’s National Dialogue Series underscored the necessity of a collective effort involving both leaders and citizens. A mindset shift, coupled with a commitment to the rule of law, responsible citizenship, and foundational development, is crucial for Nigeria’s progress.