“Democracy Yet to Unfold in Nigeria”, Ezekwesili Criticizes at Unizik Business School International Conference

By Gabriel Chy Alonta

Former Vice-President of the World Bank – Africa Region, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili, has criticized Nigeria’s current democratic practices and the transition of power by Nigerian leaders. She expressed her concerns at the International Hybrid Conference organized by the Unizik Business School (UBS) on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, at the ASUU-NAU Secretariat. The conference’s theme was “Political Transition and Economic Development: The African Experience.”

Dr. Ezekwesili, an economic policy expert who correlates democracy with economic development, lamented the monopolization of power by self-serving leaders in Nigerian democracy. She argued that these leaders often prioritize their personal political interests over the common good, labeling it a “dominant mindset.”

She highlighted the growing poverty and lack of inclusivity in Nigeria and called for a series of reforms. These include implementing sound policies, strengthening institutions and regulatory systems, focusing on quality investments tied to human development, and ensuring equal access to information. She emphasized that these measures are vital to restore the public’s trust in their leaders.

During the conference, the Keynote Speaker and Chairman of United Nigeria Airline, Prof. Obiorah Okonkwo, raised concerns about political transitions in various African countries leading to military coups. He attributed this phenomenon to a disconnect between the people and their governments. Prof. Obiorah, represented by Prof. Charles Obiorah, also cited factors such as economic disparity, weak institutions, ethno-religious divisions, external influences, and a lack of trust in leaders as contributors to these coups.

The chairman of the occasion and Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, praised the conference’s theme, highlighting the transformative potential of political transitions in Nigeria. He noted that the continent’s vast resources haven’t translated into significant development and expressed hope that the conference would provide insights into addressing these challenges. Gov. Otti was represented at the occasion by Prof. Sam Omenyi, a former deputy vice-chancellor, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.

In his opening declaration, the University Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Charles Esimone, represented by Prof. Frederick Odibo, acknowledged the ongoing underdevelopment in African states despite their abundant resources. He expressed optimism that the conference would offer solutions to these issues.

Prof. Emma Okoye, the Director of Unizik Business School, highlighted the school’s commitment to excellence in business education and its global collaborations with other business schools. He encouraged industry leaders to engage with the school’s programmes, hinting at the upcoming Nigeria-Morocco International Conference in early 2024.

The Local Organizing Committee Chairman, Prof. Ezinma Nnabuife, praised the dignitaries who attended the event and expressed hope that the conference’s resolutions would contribute to Nigeria’s economic transformation. Prof. Chinedu Onyeizugbe, the Deputy Director of UBS, offered a vote of thanks, underscoring the conference’s relevance and the challenges of recent presidential elections and power transitions.

The hybrid conference also featured awards presented to past UBS directors (Prof. Ezinma Nnabuife, Prof. Patrick Akpam, Prof. Anayo Nkamnebe and Prof. Au Nnonyelu), for their outstanding leadership. Additionally, awards were bestowed upon individuals, including Chief Dr. Alexander Chika Okafor, CEO, Chicason Group; Chief Barr. Charles Odunukwe, CEO Colonades Hotel, Lagos; Prof. Frederick John Odibo, Former DVC Academics; Prof. Benjamin Chuka Osisioma, former ANAN President; Prof. Clems Nwogbo, CEO, MP Infrastructures; Chief John Ikenna Onuegbu, CEO, Kojo Motors; Chief Sir Ikenna Okafor, Ide Akwaeze and Prof. Joseph Ikechebelu, DVC Administration, for their notable contributions to the University, business development, education, and society, making the UBS International Conference a significant event.