Advocates Urge Return to Merit-Based Leadership to Reclaim National Progress
In a thought-provoking statement, public figure Dr. Mo underscored the detrimental impact of tribalism and nepotism on Nigeria’s development, calling it a “shocking testament to the damage inflicted” on the nation. Since 2014, Nigeria has lagged behind even its closest geographical neighbors, a regression Dr. Mo attributes to the prioritization of ethnic and regional biases over merit-based leadership.
“Nepotism and tribalism have created a corrosive environment that eats away at our progress,” Dr. Mo stated. “When bigotry guides our leadership choices, we sacrifice not only competence but also our national unity and prosperity.”
This warning comes at a time when the socio-economic gap between Nigeria and neighboring nations has become increasingly apparent. While regional counterparts advance in infrastructure, education, and healthcare, Nigeria struggles to keep pace, often mired in divisive rhetoric and policies that prioritize loyalty over expertise.
Experts argue that reversing this trend is crucial to restoring Nigeria’s standing on the continent. Dr. Mo suggests that the solution lies in prioritizing integrity, capability, and vision in leadership, encouraging Nigerians to abandon ethnic and regional biases when selecting leaders. “For Nigeria to truly thrive, we must refocus on merit, competence, and accountability. The cost of failing to do so is simply too high.”
Dr. Mo’s call to action resonates amid growing public dissatisfaction, with citizens urging leaders to address issues based on expertise and to foster unity across ethnic lines. Observers note that reforming Nigeria’s leadership selection criteria could usher in a new era of inclusive growth, national stability, and restored pride.
