Ambassador Robin Renee Sanders will be part of the World Affairs Council Washington, D.C. Author Series Event March 19, 2015 to be held at the University of California's Washington Center. The event will include conversation segments with the Ambassador about her book, career, and current US-Africa events such as Nigeria's upcoming elections on March 28, 2015. In addition to the live event on March 19, 2015, her talk at the World Affairs Council, Washington, D.C. will be nationally broadcast on Sunday March 22 at 9 am on MHz Worldview
A FEEEDS BlogSpot
FEEEDS® dialogues & advocates on issues of Food Security, Education, Environment-Energy, Economics, Development-Democracy & Self-help, The FEEEDS Issues. Dr. Robin Sanders, CEO FEEEDS & FE3DS, former U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Congo, & ECOWAS. Website:http://www. ambassadorrobinreneesanders.com. FEEEDS ask you to beware of all scam emails/text claiming to be from Amb. Sanders/FEEEDS as funding or monies are never requested. Report scams to FBI at spam@uce.gov
Showing posts with label Nigerian Elections. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Nigerian Elections. Show all posts
Thursday, March 19, 2015
Sunday, February 15, 2015
Ambassador Sanders Discusses Nigeria's Postponed Elections on Al Jazeera America
Having work on the run-up to Nigeria's 2011 election, Al Jazeera America and Al Jazeera English, interviewed Ambassador Robin Sanders, on her views on the recently postponed Nigerian 2015 elections. The issue of security in the North remains a challenge, but the postponement has embolden Boko Haram's self perception as attack in the North continue and now in addition to Borno, Yobe, and Adamara, Gombe has now been included in its regularly attacks from female suicide bombers to attacking and killing innocent villagers in the state. She notes that it is important to understand that the recently announced African Union Force of 7,500 could take from 4-6 months to stand up, while the regional military forces of Chad-Niger-Nigeria-Cameroon try to recapture territory and provide some stability in certain areas of the now four states affected. On Nigeria's election Commission, called INEC, Dr. Sanders gives them high praise, particularly its Chairman Jega who she worked with during the 2011 pre-election period, for doing everything possible to be administratively ready for the elections with nearly 70 percent of voter cards distributed to the 68.4 million registered voters.
Click here to see interview: https://ajam.
A FEEEDS BlogSpot
Click here to see interview: https://ajam.
A FEEEDS BlogSpot
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Nigeria’s 2011 Elections: What’s on the Post-Election To-Do List? Improve Education & Health; Build Agriculture & Transform Energy Sector
The majority of international and local civil society observers saw the results of Nigeria’s election series on April 9, April 16, and April 26, 2011, as credible. However, they, along with the opposition also noted irregularities such as underage voting, improperly used ballots, and mishandled/misplaced ballot boxes, coupled with the sad fact of election violence killing nearly 800 as noted by Human Rights Watch (HRW http://tinyurl.com/HRW-Election-Violence). Many of these same irregularities have been cited in past elections since military rule ended more than 30 years ago. However, in 2011, these improper actions were significantly reduced with much of the credit for this positive change going to the well-respected Chairman of Nigeria’s election Commission -- Professor Attahiru Jega.
With a credibility stamp on the overall 2011 election results, even with the irregularities and violence, the post-election landscape is going to be equally as important with the need to address some of the underlying development issues that could have contributed to election violence.
So how to reach out to all Nigerians, particularly the youth and especially the northern youth, so that they feel, as one nation, they can play a part in the country’s future? There are about 45 million youth in today’s Nigeria. And, from now to 2025 that 45 million is likely to reach 62 million if Nigeria’s population trajectory remains on track (http://tinyurl.com/The-Africa-Post-blogitrrs). The post-election landscape will have to focus on some of the FEEEDS® issues, especially food security, education, development, and addressing evolving democracy efforts (e.g. anti-corruption).
Social sector reform in education, health, and housing as well as transformative institution building in those same sectors is needed so that youth and women, in particular, can play key roles in the country’s future. Transparent investment and value chain development in sectors such as agriculture, energy, and infrastructure, including taking renewables and appropriate technology into account, will be fundamental to Nigeria’s advancement over the next 20 years -- or more simply put -- for the nation’s next two generations. Changes in these areas will ensure self-sufficient food security, but also maximize the export potential of key commodities from rice and cassava to maize and cowpeas, including increasing trade of unique national products such as shea butter, palm oil, and coco, to northern Fulani and Hausa crafts, and indigenous textiles like indigo-based adire or ashoke. Addressing all of these issues will create two things: an educated and trained citizenry, and entrepreneurs and/or jobs.
If one travels throughout Nigeria (and I have to all 36 states), particularly in the North where negative human index indicator numbers are much higher (infant mortality, out-of-school girls, malnutrition), there is a visible need to respond to these socio-economic issues to meet the aspirations of young people at the poverty level or in the middle class. The youth, as well as Nigeria’s 74 million women, will need to have employment opportunities (entrepreneurial, vocational, or formal private sector). The young will need to feel hopeful about opportunities -- or at least know there are transparent frameworks (institutions, processes, and regulatory environments) -- allowing them to outline a way forward for their future. People are hopeful when transparent frameworks are in place. Without them, without hope, then there are few alternatives, leading to frustration or in some cases violence that breaks down often along religious and ethnic lines.
Looking at the violence that mostly took place in the North, and the fact that the 12 core Northern States went to opposition presidential candidate, retired General Buhari, (see stark red & green map http://tinyurl.com/Election-Results-Map), underscores the outreach still needed in the region. Two predominately Muslim states in the East, Adamawa and Taraba, went to the President-elect.
It is okay to have political differences within a nation -- most democratic countries do -- as democracy also means respect for differences in views, culture and religion. But differences cannot also include hopelessness because social sectors needs are not met for parts of the population. So what should be on the Post-Election To-Do list?
• Foster transparent frameworks (institutions and societal structures) so that Nigerians, no matter where they live, or what their political, religious or ethnic backgrounds are, believe that they have a level playing field allowing for a better future;
• Rebuild and resource education, adding possibly a universal program similar to nations like Uganda, and certainly include vocational and entrepreneurial training (too few donors assist with these);
• Creative value chain development using models such as Benin’s Songhai, Backpack farms, and programs like MARKETS (see TAP@blogitrrs http://tinyurl.com/The-Africa-Post-Food-Security);
• Improve micro credit and finance mechanisms; Current programs do not meet the high demand, and requirements for lending are too tough for many, especially for small holder farmers, women and entrepreneurs;
• Establish a more reliable and affordable mortgage program so anyone at any point on the social economic scale can count on a framework that provides housing. A viable and affordable mortgage system, available to all, does not exist in today’s Nigeria; Housing is a big issue for many.
All in all, Nigeria’s post election environment represents an opportunity for the country’s leadership to change the key paradigms that will provide a new enabling environment for a new Nigeria. Despite the good macroeconomic news in Nigeria and some visionary Governors (e.g. Lagos, Katsina, Akom Ibom, Rivers, Gombe, etc.), there are real poverty issues for many. I have also seen this poverty firsthand. Also, few job options exist for the educated. If some of the frameworks noted above are transparently addressed, then hopefully, this election -- with its international stamp of credibility -- will be a turning point for many in this nation of 152 million people.
With a credibility stamp on the overall 2011 election results, even with the irregularities and violence, the post-election landscape is going to be equally as important with the need to address some of the underlying development issues that could have contributed to election violence.
So how to reach out to all Nigerians, particularly the youth and especially the northern youth, so that they feel, as one nation, they can play a part in the country’s future? There are about 45 million youth in today’s Nigeria. And, from now to 2025 that 45 million is likely to reach 62 million if Nigeria’s population trajectory remains on track (http://tinyurl.com/The-Africa-Post-blogitrrs). The post-election landscape will have to focus on some of the FEEEDS® issues, especially food security, education, development, and addressing evolving democracy efforts (e.g. anti-corruption).
Social sector reform in education, health, and housing as well as transformative institution building in those same sectors is needed so that youth and women, in particular, can play key roles in the country’s future. Transparent investment and value chain development in sectors such as agriculture, energy, and infrastructure, including taking renewables and appropriate technology into account, will be fundamental to Nigeria’s advancement over the next 20 years -- or more simply put -- for the nation’s next two generations. Changes in these areas will ensure self-sufficient food security, but also maximize the export potential of key commodities from rice and cassava to maize and cowpeas, including increasing trade of unique national products such as shea butter, palm oil, and coco, to northern Fulani and Hausa crafts, and indigenous textiles like indigo-based adire or ashoke. Addressing all of these issues will create two things: an educated and trained citizenry, and entrepreneurs and/or jobs.
If one travels throughout Nigeria (and I have to all 36 states), particularly in the North where negative human index indicator numbers are much higher (infant mortality, out-of-school girls, malnutrition), there is a visible need to respond to these socio-economic issues to meet the aspirations of young people at the poverty level or in the middle class. The youth, as well as Nigeria’s 74 million women, will need to have employment opportunities (entrepreneurial, vocational, or formal private sector). The young will need to feel hopeful about opportunities -- or at least know there are transparent frameworks (institutions, processes, and regulatory environments) -- allowing them to outline a way forward for their future. People are hopeful when transparent frameworks are in place. Without them, without hope, then there are few alternatives, leading to frustration or in some cases violence that breaks down often along religious and ethnic lines.
Looking at the violence that mostly took place in the North, and the fact that the 12 core Northern States went to opposition presidential candidate, retired General Buhari, (see stark red & green map http://tinyurl.com/Election-Results-Map), underscores the outreach still needed in the region. Two predominately Muslim states in the East, Adamawa and Taraba, went to the President-elect.
It is okay to have political differences within a nation -- most democratic countries do -- as democracy also means respect for differences in views, culture and religion. But differences cannot also include hopelessness because social sectors needs are not met for parts of the population. So what should be on the Post-Election To-Do list?
• Foster transparent frameworks (institutions and societal structures) so that Nigerians, no matter where they live, or what their political, religious or ethnic backgrounds are, believe that they have a level playing field allowing for a better future;
• Rebuild and resource education, adding possibly a universal program similar to nations like Uganda, and certainly include vocational and entrepreneurial training (too few donors assist with these);
• Creative value chain development using models such as Benin’s Songhai, Backpack farms, and programs like MARKETS (see TAP@blogitrrs http://tinyurl.com/The-Africa-Post-Food-Security);
• Improve micro credit and finance mechanisms; Current programs do not meet the high demand, and requirements for lending are too tough for many, especially for small holder farmers, women and entrepreneurs;
• Establish a more reliable and affordable mortgage program so anyone at any point on the social economic scale can count on a framework that provides housing. A viable and affordable mortgage system, available to all, does not exist in today’s Nigeria; Housing is a big issue for many.
All in all, Nigeria’s post election environment represents an opportunity for the country’s leadership to change the key paradigms that will provide a new enabling environment for a new Nigeria. Despite the good macroeconomic news in Nigeria and some visionary Governors (e.g. Lagos, Katsina, Akom Ibom, Rivers, Gombe, etc.), there are real poverty issues for many. I have also seen this poverty firsthand. Also, few job options exist for the educated. If some of the frameworks noted above are transparently addressed, then hopefully, this election -- with its international stamp of credibility -- will be a turning point for many in this nation of 152 million people.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Sanders calls Nigeria's Lagos Governor Fashola an Extraorindary & Visionary Leader
Fashola sees April 2011 election results as credible; Jonathan worked the hardest.
CFA Chairman Straughter, Dr. Robin Renee Sanders, Lagos Governor Fashola, Nigerian Ambassdor to the U.S. Adefuye
I had the honor of personally hosting a luncheon on May 16, 2011 for the newly re-elected Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Fashola (SAN) at the Army-Navy Club in Washington, D.C. in conjunction with the Constituency for Africa -- one of the leading U.S. advocacy organization focused on Africa. As I introduced the Governor, I underscored the extraordinary commitment, dedication, and vision of this extraordinary leader. The luncheon event was attended by 50 key civil society, academic, and private sector representatives interested in hearing the Governor's vision for one of Nigeria's most important states -- Lagos -- where the capital city of the same name (Lagos) heralds a population of 18 million.
Winning re-election with 82 per cent of the vote, Fashola told the assembled crowd that his vision for the next four years for his State focused on infrastructure development, particularly in mass transport (rail, bus, ferries), the housing and agricultural sectors, as well as on educational and training programs for youth. I have seen personally the transformation of Lagos from 2007-2010 during the time that I lived in Nigeria as a result of Fashola's leadership and I have no doubt that during the next four years he will continue to move the country's commercial capital forward.
Noting to the crowd "the importance of coming and seeing Nigeria first-hand," he told the U.S. group that they could not understand and invest in Nigeria unless they actually came to the country to appreciate the array of investment opportunities there.
In response to a question on the recent Nigerian elections where 22 million of Nigeria's 74 million registered voters participated in the April 2011 voting, Fashola acknowledged the irregularities in some polling places which he said needed to be addressed. He also stressed his concern about the violence that occured, but he added that the outcome of the election was credible and gave high points to President-elect Jonathan for "working the hardest" during the campaign and trying to reach out to Nigerians all across the country.(http://tinyurl.com/Leadership-News-on-Fashola).
In my view, the key now will be the next steps for the country, particularly efforts to address key social sector issues for Nigeria's nearly 64 million youth, and addressing the underlying causes of the violence (need for education, training, better health care, and job opportunities) in the country's north, where according to Human Rights Watch nearly 800 people reportedly lost their lives (http://tinyurl.com/HRW-Election-Violence).
Most Africa watchers recognize the enormous and limitless potential of Nigeria to expand its global and economic leadership, but more needs to be done to address social sector issues and the extraordinary vision, dedication, and commitment by extraordinary individuals such as the results-oriented Governor Fashola of Lagos gives us all hope.
CFA Chairman Straughter, Dr. Robin Renee Sanders, Lagos Governor Fashola, Nigerian Ambassdor to the U.S. AdefuyeI had the honor of personally hosting a luncheon on May 16, 2011 for the newly re-elected Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Fashola (SAN) at the Army-Navy Club in Washington, D.C. in conjunction with the Constituency for Africa -- one of the leading U.S. advocacy organization focused on Africa. As I introduced the Governor, I underscored the extraordinary commitment, dedication, and vision of this extraordinary leader. The luncheon event was attended by 50 key civil society, academic, and private sector representatives interested in hearing the Governor's vision for one of Nigeria's most important states -- Lagos -- where the capital city of the same name (Lagos) heralds a population of 18 million.
Winning re-election with 82 per cent of the vote, Fashola told the assembled crowd that his vision for the next four years for his State focused on infrastructure development, particularly in mass transport (rail, bus, ferries), the housing and agricultural sectors, as well as on educational and training programs for youth. I have seen personally the transformation of Lagos from 2007-2010 during the time that I lived in Nigeria as a result of Fashola's leadership and I have no doubt that during the next four years he will continue to move the country's commercial capital forward.
Noting to the crowd "the importance of coming and seeing Nigeria first-hand," he told the U.S. group that they could not understand and invest in Nigeria unless they actually came to the country to appreciate the array of investment opportunities there.
In response to a question on the recent Nigerian elections where 22 million of Nigeria's 74 million registered voters participated in the April 2011 voting, Fashola acknowledged the irregularities in some polling places which he said needed to be addressed. He also stressed his concern about the violence that occured, but he added that the outcome of the election was credible and gave high points to President-elect Jonathan for "working the hardest" during the campaign and trying to reach out to Nigerians all across the country.(http://tinyurl.com/Leadership-News-on-Fashola).
In my view, the key now will be the next steps for the country, particularly efforts to address key social sector issues for Nigeria's nearly 64 million youth, and addressing the underlying causes of the violence (need for education, training, better health care, and job opportunities) in the country's north, where according to Human Rights Watch nearly 800 people reportedly lost their lives (http://tinyurl.com/HRW-Election-Violence).
Most Africa watchers recognize the enormous and limitless potential of Nigeria to expand its global and economic leadership, but more needs to be done to address social sector issues and the extraordinary vision, dedication, and commitment by extraordinary individuals such as the results-oriented Governor Fashola of Lagos gives us all hope.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Africare-Atlantic Council-Carnegie Mellon April 19, 2011 Forum on Nigeria’s Legislative & Presidential Elections
Panelists and special speakers at Africare-Atlantic Council-Carnegie Mellon Nigeria Election Forum, from left-to-right: Dr. Gwendolyn Mikell, Mr. Reno Omokri, Mr. Oronto Douglas, Mr. El Rufai, Dr. Robin R. Sanders (former U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria), Ambassador Adefuye (Nigerian Ambassador to the U.S.), Dr. Jendayi Frazer, and Dr. J. Peter Pham.
WASHINGTON, DC, Wednesday, April 20, 2011 – On April 19, Africare, in partnership with the Atlantic Council and Carnegie Mellon University’s Center for International Policy and Innovation (CIPI), organized a forum that focused on the “ Initial Assessment of Nigeria’s 2011 Election.” Most of the panelists were in Nigeria during the recent elections and gave firsthand accounts of what they saw on the ground. Many of the Forum’s presenters were in agreement that these latest elections – both parliamentary and presidential, held April 9th and April 16th respectively – were the most credible and well-organized national elections Nigeria has ever seen since the onset of its democratic experience (the country was ruled by military dictators for 30 years and made moves to establish democratic principles 11 years ago). Most panelists were optimistic about the future of Nigerian elections and noted that the problems identified during the elections could be worked on and did not affect the outcome of the elections.
On the other hand, Mr. Nasir El-Rufai, a prominent Nigerian political figure and former Nigerian Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, cautioned attendees about the dangers of too much self-congratulatory statements, given that there was not only a geographic split in the country in support for the two candidates (most of the North voted for opposition candidate General Buhari), but also that many in the country’s northern region felt that their votes were not reflected in the outcomes of the vote count. El-Rufai did add that the 2011 elections were much improved from the 2007, or 2003 votes, but that more work still needs to be done before they could be considered completely free and fair. El-Rufai continued by calling for even more electoral reforms, specifically electronic balloting and a centralized vote tally location, which would eliminate much of the human element of vote counting and transportation -- thus protecting every Nigerian’s vote.
Other key speakers included Ambassador Jendayi Frazer of Carnegie Mellon and former Assistant Secretary of State for Africa, who gave introductory remarks; Dr. Gwendolyn Mikell, Professor of Anthropology and Foreign Service at Georgetown University and Dr. J. Peter Pham of the Atlantic Council, both who served as official observers of the Nigerian elections; and, Mr. Reno Omokri, Founder, Build Up Nigeria Project, a non-governmental organization focused on youth. The event was moderated by Ambassador Robin R. Sanders, International Affairs Advisor and Communication Outreach Director for Africare, representing Africare’s President Dr. Darius Mans.
Other key speakers included H.E. Adefuye, Ambassador of Nigeria to the United States, and Mr. Oronto Douglas, Senior Special Assistant to President-elect Jonathan whose contributions were also both informative and lively. Overall, panelists agreed that the recent political violence and bloodshed that has taken place since the elections is of grave concern and that all parties should seek peace and address any concerns through legal processes. Key take away points included the importance women played in the voting process as noted by Professor Mikell and the large number of youth who participated in the elections, as mentioned by Mr. Omokri. In addition, the panelists highlighted the importance of the upcoming April 26, 2011, gubernatorial elections and the need for those to not only be peaceful, but also further address some of the challenges that were seen in the April 9th and April 16th elections in order to make them even more transparent. Everyone agreed that Nigerian President-elect Goodluck Jonathan will need to work after the election season to ensure that all disparate groups in Nigeria feel that they have a role to play in nation-building in order to create an environment where the country can grow and prosper politically, socially, and economically.
Video Clip
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Nigeria's Role In Africa Over the Next 50 Years
2010 World Summit of Mayors, Nigeria, December 2010
What is Nigeria's Role in Africa Over the Next 50 Years?
Nigeria – a nation of plenty, a nation of potential, and nation of prospects. These are the key pillars that the next 50 years should bring to fruition for this great country. As an African-American who sees Nigeria as one of the most important global nations in the world today, it is important for Nigeria, with the support and encouragement from its friends, to enter the next half century with the goal of improving the daily lives of each Nigerian citizen. This includes having a safe enabling environment not only for economic growth and development, but also to further ensure its rightful place as a leader in the sub region on peace and security issues. Nigerians, and their friends, see the struggles that this great nation faces today with instability being renewed in the Delta, ethnic tensions in parts of the North, corruption issues, and concerns about a successful, and transparent election looming large for April 2011.
None of these issues should be taken lightly, they are real, cause uncertainty, and are challenges that must be addressed in a transparent manner to set the stage not only for Nigeria in the next 50 years, but also for the African Continent writ large. The nation of Nigeria and the people I have had the pleasure of working with and knowing have always made me proud to be connected to a country with such great potential and prospects. Nigeria is a symbol for many African-Americans in so many positive ways – the creativeness, the talent, and the strong love of country - to name a few of the core values that I experienced living in Nigeria. This viewpoint does not mean that we are not rooting for Nigeria to be even more than it is today and that it must continue to work to ensure that the challenges of today mentioned above are addressed and are not markers of the future. I was asked about the role of Nigeria in the future of Africa over the next 50 years given that Nigeria and 17 other nations celebrated their jubilee anniversary in
2010. There are several very important points to make in this regard:
Leadership by far is Nigeria’s first role on the Continent as it is a key political, security, and trading partner in the sub-region and with other world nations. However, with this, it has to continue to find ways to better address its own internal security and corruption issues as part of this leadership and make transparent elections and good governance the order of the day;
Nigeria’s Development role is next, particularly, as Nigeria and the rest of Africa should be the next emerging frontiers for economic growth, markets, and trade. The recent positive news in some quarters of Nigeria’s macro-economic and capital market reforms efforts spurred by the leadership at Nigeria’s Central Bank and at its Security and Exchange Commission are symbolic of the solid foundations that countries in Africa need to be moving toward over the next 50 years. The issues of most concern to me are what I have called the FEEEDS™ issues (with the acronym meaning Food Security, Education, Environment, Energy, Development/Democracy and Self-Help). The FEEEDS™ issues will need to be better handled over the next 50 years by all nations on the Continent;
Nigeria’s Youth and Women need to be included and play a key role in the direction of the country. Given that more than half of Nigeria’s population is under the age of 35 coupled with having nearly 74 million women, both youth and women need to be provided with not only ample but more adequate educational opportunities (including vocational and entrepreneurship training) as they are vital to a viable future for any nation. No nation can develop by excluding more than half its population from a strong and visible role in political development, and social sector reform; and,
Transparency in Resource Management which is not only cross sectoral but also a synergistic way of better addressing how all resources -- energy resources, land and water resources, human resources, and financial resources - - in a country are governed.
None of us has a crystal ball, and none of us can predict the future. What we can do is our utmost to put in place the things that we know can help make the future a better place. Nigeria, as the most populated nation on the Continent and because of the core values I know are part of the Nigerian mosaic, can and should help set the stage for the future of the Africa Region and the global community, but addressing the four points above are key parts of achieving these goals. Many of us as African-Americans are counting on that. I know I am.
What is Nigeria's Role in Africa Over the Next 50 Years?
Nigeria – a nation of plenty, a nation of potential, and nation of prospects. These are the key pillars that the next 50 years should bring to fruition for this great country. As an African-American who sees Nigeria as one of the most important global nations in the world today, it is important for Nigeria, with the support and encouragement from its friends, to enter the next half century with the goal of improving the daily lives of each Nigerian citizen. This includes having a safe enabling environment not only for economic growth and development, but also to further ensure its rightful place as a leader in the sub region on peace and security issues. Nigerians, and their friends, see the struggles that this great nation faces today with instability being renewed in the Delta, ethnic tensions in parts of the North, corruption issues, and concerns about a successful, and transparent election looming large for April 2011.
None of these issues should be taken lightly, they are real, cause uncertainty, and are challenges that must be addressed in a transparent manner to set the stage not only for Nigeria in the next 50 years, but also for the African Continent writ large. The nation of Nigeria and the people I have had the pleasure of working with and knowing have always made me proud to be connected to a country with such great potential and prospects. Nigeria is a symbol for many African-Americans in so many positive ways – the creativeness, the talent, and the strong love of country - to name a few of the core values that I experienced living in Nigeria. This viewpoint does not mean that we are not rooting for Nigeria to be even more than it is today and that it must continue to work to ensure that the challenges of today mentioned above are addressed and are not markers of the future. I was asked about the role of Nigeria in the future of Africa over the next 50 years given that Nigeria and 17 other nations celebrated their jubilee anniversary in
2010. There are several very important points to make in this regard:
Leadership by far is Nigeria’s first role on the Continent as it is a key political, security, and trading partner in the sub-region and with other world nations. However, with this, it has to continue to find ways to better address its own internal security and corruption issues as part of this leadership and make transparent elections and good governance the order of the day;
Nigeria’s Development role is next, particularly, as Nigeria and the rest of Africa should be the next emerging frontiers for economic growth, markets, and trade. The recent positive news in some quarters of Nigeria’s macro-economic and capital market reforms efforts spurred by the leadership at Nigeria’s Central Bank and at its Security and Exchange Commission are symbolic of the solid foundations that countries in Africa need to be moving toward over the next 50 years. The issues of most concern to me are what I have called the FEEEDS™ issues (with the acronym meaning Food Security, Education, Environment, Energy, Development/Democracy and Self-Help). The FEEEDS™ issues will need to be better handled over the next 50 years by all nations on the Continent;
Nigeria’s Youth and Women need to be included and play a key role in the direction of the country. Given that more than half of Nigeria’s population is under the age of 35 coupled with having nearly 74 million women, both youth and women need to be provided with not only ample but more adequate educational opportunities (including vocational and entrepreneurship training) as they are vital to a viable future for any nation. No nation can develop by excluding more than half its population from a strong and visible role in political development, and social sector reform; and,
Transparency in Resource Management which is not only cross sectoral but also a synergistic way of better addressing how all resources -- energy resources, land and water resources, human resources, and financial resources - - in a country are governed.
None of us has a crystal ball, and none of us can predict the future. What we can do is our utmost to put in place the things that we know can help make the future a better place. Nigeria, as the most populated nation on the Continent and because of the core values I know are part of the Nigerian mosaic, can and should help set the stage for the future of the Africa Region and the global community, but addressing the four points above are key parts of achieving these goals. Many of us as African-Americans are counting on that. I know I am.
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Nigeria’s 2011 Elections – Keeping the 2 R’s in Mind: Resilience and Resolve
Road to Nigeria's Elections blogspot series
Do Not Underestimate Nigerian Resilience and Resolve
As Nigeria continues on the path to its critical elections which appears to be slated for April 2011, there are two key things to keep in mind which I call the two R’s: Nigeria’s Resilience and Nigeria’s Resolve. Do not underestimate either. Having just finished up my 3 year tenure there as the U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria (2007-2010), I have always marveled at these two elements which are fundamental to Nigeria's national character. These two elements will also pay a role in the conduct of how Nigeria’s 2011 elections will unfold. Yes, things are heating up in Nigeria’s election landscape and yes there is still a long way to go in ensuring voter registration, political party transparency, and a secure enabling environment for a credible election. But make no mistake – today more than ever Nigerians want a fraud-free election conducted in a secure environment. No one (and this includes Nigerians) underestimates the challenges ahead to get everything done on time, and keeping everything on track. But, what I would argue is important from this point forward until the proposed April 2011 election is working WITH Nigeria and Nigerians to makes this election as successful as possible, not criticizing it this far out from the sidelines – every friend and every partner of Nigeria should be working in lockstep in that direction.
Let’s keep in mind this phrase (one I have always thought about over the last couple of months in Nigeria before the end of my tenure) -- “What a Difference a Year Makes.” With a quick trip down memory lane, last year this time (the Sept-Dec 2009 time period) when many outside of Nigeria were worried about destabilization of the country, many Nigerians in-country (not necessarily all) were confident that the days of military intervention were over. This resolve was inspite of things being very politically murky as worries about the late President Yar’Adua’s illness overtook the nation. There was a sense not only that the country would get through this difficult time (and it did!), but also a strong desire not to repeat history, but continued efforts to try to build a better electoral process. Resilience and Resolve prevailed during this period and we need to continue to call on Nigeria to depend on these two elements of its national character as it moves toward its 2011 election. There is not a Nigerian that does not understand getting this election process right will not only be tough as there is a lot to do in a short amount of time (see The Africa Post August 2010 @blogitrrs). But this is where friends are supposed to come in and do their utmost to support the right actions.
Friends of Nigeria from this point forward should be helping Nigeria get to credible elections. There is a way of doing things in Nigeria that is not always clear from the outside, and no doubt there will be ups and downs until the 2011 election is executed. Things will look uncertain from time to time, and be of concern, but every single step or misstep does not mean a doomsday scenario is unfolding. We need to continue to encourage Nigeria to:
• Support and involve civil society at every turn in the election process;
• Support an active and free press;
• Support parallel vote tabulation or swift vote count by civil society;
• Support all efforts which will promote a violent-free election;
• Support election monitoring by both civil society and international observers; and,
• Support efforts to encourage political parties to have true internal democratization.
Consider the above My “Checklist for Nigeria’s 2011 Election.” I was a Nigeria optimist when I was there as U.S. Ambassador and I will remain one. This does not mean that I will not encourage Nigeria – as a friend and daughter of the Continent – to do things that I hope will continue to build its democracy or state when there are things of concern. This is what friends do, but they do it fairly, forthrightly and with a long term positive goal in mind, but always with mutual respect to this nation of 150 million people. I have a democracy wish list for Nigeria @50 as it reaches its jubilee independence anniversary on October 1, 2010 and outlined clearly the challenges ahead in several speeches (see the Africa Post @ http://blogitrrs.blogspot.com/2010/08/remarks-on-july-291-2010-my-wish-for.html, & http://blogitrrs.blogspot.com/2010/06/dr-robin-r-sanders-remarks-at-vice.html), and my “Checklist for Nigeria’s 2011 Election” above is nothing new. It is what the Chairman of the Nigerian Independent Electoral Commission (INEC), Dr. Jega, Nigerian civil society, and the Nigerian people, who want a clean election, have on their radar screens to try not only to turn the tide of how INEC is viewed, but rebuild the confidence of so many Nigerians in their electoral process. Let’s all work toward supporting Nigeria in achieving these things.
(views on blog from Sept 26, 2010 onward are personal and do not represent the positions of U.S. Government or Africare.)
Do Not Underestimate Nigerian Resilience and Resolve
As Nigeria continues on the path to its critical elections which appears to be slated for April 2011, there are two key things to keep in mind which I call the two R’s: Nigeria’s Resilience and Nigeria’s Resolve. Do not underestimate either. Having just finished up my 3 year tenure there as the U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria (2007-2010), I have always marveled at these two elements which are fundamental to Nigeria's national character. These two elements will also pay a role in the conduct of how Nigeria’s 2011 elections will unfold. Yes, things are heating up in Nigeria’s election landscape and yes there is still a long way to go in ensuring voter registration, political party transparency, and a secure enabling environment for a credible election. But make no mistake – today more than ever Nigerians want a fraud-free election conducted in a secure environment. No one (and this includes Nigerians) underestimates the challenges ahead to get everything done on time, and keeping everything on track. But, what I would argue is important from this point forward until the proposed April 2011 election is working WITH Nigeria and Nigerians to makes this election as successful as possible, not criticizing it this far out from the sidelines – every friend and every partner of Nigeria should be working in lockstep in that direction.
Let’s keep in mind this phrase (one I have always thought about over the last couple of months in Nigeria before the end of my tenure) -- “What a Difference a Year Makes.” With a quick trip down memory lane, last year this time (the Sept-Dec 2009 time period) when many outside of Nigeria were worried about destabilization of the country, many Nigerians in-country (not necessarily all) were confident that the days of military intervention were over. This resolve was inspite of things being very politically murky as worries about the late President Yar’Adua’s illness overtook the nation. There was a sense not only that the country would get through this difficult time (and it did!), but also a strong desire not to repeat history, but continued efforts to try to build a better electoral process. Resilience and Resolve prevailed during this period and we need to continue to call on Nigeria to depend on these two elements of its national character as it moves toward its 2011 election. There is not a Nigerian that does not understand getting this election process right will not only be tough as there is a lot to do in a short amount of time (see The Africa Post August 2010 @blogitrrs). But this is where friends are supposed to come in and do their utmost to support the right actions.
Friends of Nigeria from this point forward should be helping Nigeria get to credible elections. There is a way of doing things in Nigeria that is not always clear from the outside, and no doubt there will be ups and downs until the 2011 election is executed. Things will look uncertain from time to time, and be of concern, but every single step or misstep does not mean a doomsday scenario is unfolding. We need to continue to encourage Nigeria to:
• Support and involve civil society at every turn in the election process;
• Support an active and free press;
• Support parallel vote tabulation or swift vote count by civil society;
• Support all efforts which will promote a violent-free election;
• Support election monitoring by both civil society and international observers; and,
• Support efforts to encourage political parties to have true internal democratization.
Consider the above My “Checklist for Nigeria’s 2011 Election.” I was a Nigeria optimist when I was there as U.S. Ambassador and I will remain one. This does not mean that I will not encourage Nigeria – as a friend and daughter of the Continent – to do things that I hope will continue to build its democracy or state when there are things of concern. This is what friends do, but they do it fairly, forthrightly and with a long term positive goal in mind, but always with mutual respect to this nation of 150 million people. I have a democracy wish list for Nigeria @50 as it reaches its jubilee independence anniversary on October 1, 2010 and outlined clearly the challenges ahead in several speeches (see the Africa Post @ http://blogitrrs.blogspot.com/2010/08/remarks-on-july-291-2010-my-wish-for.html, & http://blogitrrs.blogspot.com/2010/06/dr-robin-r-sanders-remarks-at-vice.html), and my “Checklist for Nigeria’s 2011 Election” above is nothing new. It is what the Chairman of the Nigerian Independent Electoral Commission (INEC), Dr. Jega, Nigerian civil society, and the Nigerian people, who want a clean election, have on their radar screens to try not only to turn the tide of how INEC is viewed, but rebuild the confidence of so many Nigerians in their electoral process. Let’s all work toward supporting Nigeria in achieving these things.
(views on blog from Sept 26, 2010 onward are personal and do not represent the positions of U.S. Government or Africare.)
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Tick, Tick…The Clock is Running On Nigeria’s 2011 Elections
This blogspot is part of the series “The Road to Nigeria’s 2011 Elections”
Tick, Tick… What is that sound? Nigeria’s election clock ticking toward a January 2011 election, but much work still needs to be done so that everyone, particularly friends of Nigeria, can begin to exhale that things are on the right track, and moving in the right direction. There has been a mixture of news that shows some progress, but the loudest sound coming from the election clock is the need for a date certain to be set for the election itself by the country’s Independent National Election Commission – more commonly known as INEC. From that point - from that election date - everything else will be determined: how long voter registration can go on, and when the voter registry must be finished.
The last week has had a lot of interesting aspects that are worth noting. First, INEC got most of the money that it requested to conduct the elections, nearly $480 million, which will be used for direct capture machines of voter information in the registration process, voter education, setting up the nearly 120,000-140,000 or more polling places, and deploying both people and resources. Reportedly 360,000 staff are needed to conduct the elections.
Secondly, President Jonathan signed the new 2010 Nigerian Electoral Act on August 20, 2010, ending a fair amount of uncertainty on whether the election will be in January 2011 or April 2011, and finally setting the stage for INEC to decide when in the next 150 days there will be a turning point election for Nigeria. I have been calling this a "Must-Do" election because of the rallying cry of the nation to hold credible and transparent polls. If you are counting both fingers and toes that means the election date should be set before the end of August – only a few days away. There is still a debate out there (and a few legal suits) as to whether President Jonathan has to assent to the constitutional amendment (see blog-itrrs: The Africa Post on constitutional debate) passed in late July 2010, before they are enforce. Despite these suits things appear to be progressing in the direction that the amendments are in force, which call for an election to be held no later than 150 days from Nigeria Democracy Day – May 29, 2011. So this mean, January 2011. INEC’s new Chairman, who all agree is a committed and dedicated Nigerian with integrity and skills, has a lot on his plate, most notably the eyes of the nation and the international community.
However, we must not forget the politics of the day as political parties decide on their next moves. The ruling Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) seems to have figured out how it is going to handle it north-south zoning issues; there is the new Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) - a merger of two parties; and, other political groups are holding meetings to build coalitions.
We all look forward to an election date being announced in the coming days and we continue to encourage the new INEC Chairman as he puts in motion people, resources, manages the politics, and determines the next election steps for this dynamic country of 150 million people as the clock looks like it is ticking toward a January 2011 election. The U.S.-Nigerian Binational Commission will meet this week to have informational meetings on the U.S. Government-UK funded election technical assistance.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Nigeria’s Youth Discuss Country's 2011 Elections & Development
This blogspot is part of the series: The Road to Nigeria's 2011 Elections
Nigerian Youth 18 and older must believe in the future of their country, and believe in the nation’s elections process. This was the message on World Youth Day August 12, 2010, in Abuja, as youth gathered in different venues around the country to take stock of their role in the future of Nigeria. On the heels of returning from President Obama's African Young Leaders Forum (AYLF), the three Nigerian participants - Taiwo, Ruth and Bako - joined me on World Youth Day to discuss the Nigerian 2011 elections to encourage young Nigerians to take part in the development of their country on the FEEEDS™ pillars (Food Security, Education, Environment-Energy, Economics, Democracy, and Self-Help - http://blogitrrs.blogspot.com/p/feeeds.html) which starts first with participation in and belief in the election process.
Many of the 70 young people 18-35 years, who gathered for the discussion, noted their concern about fraud and vote rigging and wanting their votes and their voices to make a difference and count. Many recounted their past experience as voters in Nigeria’s 2007 election when they believed their votes did not count, and wanted to know what would be different in 2011. Nigeria today has nearly 45 million young people with estimates that by 2025 that number will reach 62 million (http://www.prb.org/).
The three Obama AYLF participants, in discussing the importance of the FEEEDS™ pillars, stressed that the 2011 election is where young Nigerians must start to change the path of the nation by voting for leaders who put the nation first over self interest. The Food security, Education, Democracy and Self-help aspects of FEEEDs™ where highlighted as the first steps in building a Nigeria that provides access to basic education for all (primary schools have a deficit of girls 10-14 years) and adequate and available food. In addition, the sheer size of Nigeria’s population (152 million, with a current growth rate of 2.5 %) makes the emphasis on entrepreneurial discovery the route that many Nigerian youth must take not only to secure their futures, but also because entrepreneurship can provide a vehicle to give something back to the nation on FEEEDS™.
Obama AYLF participants Taiwo, Bako, and Ruth outlined their backgrounds and how each used their entrepreneurial skills to address one of the FEEED™ pillars. Ruth focuses on education (particularly for girls), Taiwo on the environment (with his waste management company), and Bako’s Foundation also emphasizes education and poverty alleviation. The outcome of the Youth Leadership Discussion on the 2011 election was that Nigerian Youth must begin to believe that their votes will not only count, but be counted freely and fairly. The deliverable from the roundtable held at the Abuja Ken Namani Leadership Center was a message for the Government of Nigeria and the Independent National Election Commission (INEC): Make the 2011 election a time to show Nigeria’s Youth that their forthright desire to be heard and have a credible and issue-oriented election will become the order of the day.
The Deliverable: The Youth Discussion Group decided to deliver a white paper to the Government on the importance of the role of Youth in the 2011 election.
Nigerian Youth 18 and older must believe in the future of their country, and believe in the nation’s elections process. This was the message on World Youth Day August 12, 2010, in Abuja, as youth gathered in different venues around the country to take stock of their role in the future of Nigeria. On the heels of returning from President Obama's African Young Leaders Forum (AYLF), the three Nigerian participants - Taiwo, Ruth and Bako - joined me on World Youth Day to discuss the Nigerian 2011 elections to encourage young Nigerians to take part in the development of their country on the FEEEDS™ pillars (Food Security, Education, Environment-Energy, Economics, Democracy, and Self-Help - http://blogitrrs.blogspot.com/p/feeeds.html) which starts first with participation in and belief in the election process.
Many of the 70 young people 18-35 years, who gathered for the discussion, noted their concern about fraud and vote rigging and wanting their votes and their voices to make a difference and count. Many recounted their past experience as voters in Nigeria’s 2007 election when they believed their votes did not count, and wanted to know what would be different in 2011. Nigeria today has nearly 45 million young people with estimates that by 2025 that number will reach 62 million (http://www.prb.org/).
The three Obama AYLF participants, in discussing the importance of the FEEEDS™ pillars, stressed that the 2011 election is where young Nigerians must start to change the path of the nation by voting for leaders who put the nation first over self interest. The Food security, Education, Democracy and Self-help aspects of FEEEDs™ where highlighted as the first steps in building a Nigeria that provides access to basic education for all (primary schools have a deficit of girls 10-14 years) and adequate and available food. In addition, the sheer size of Nigeria’s population (152 million, with a current growth rate of 2.5 %) makes the emphasis on entrepreneurial discovery the route that many Nigerian youth must take not only to secure their futures, but also because entrepreneurship can provide a vehicle to give something back to the nation on FEEEDS™.
Obama AYLF participants Taiwo, Bako, and Ruth outlined their backgrounds and how each used their entrepreneurial skills to address one of the FEEED™ pillars. Ruth focuses on education (particularly for girls), Taiwo on the environment (with his waste management company), and Bako’s Foundation also emphasizes education and poverty alleviation. The outcome of the Youth Leadership Discussion on the 2011 election was that Nigerian Youth must begin to believe that their votes will not only count, but be counted freely and fairly. The deliverable from the roundtable held at the Abuja Ken Namani Leadership Center was a message for the Government of Nigeria and the Independent National Election Commission (INEC): Make the 2011 election a time to show Nigeria’s Youth that their forthright desire to be heard and have a credible and issue-oriented election will become the order of the day.
The Deliverable: The Youth Discussion Group decided to deliver a white paper to the Government on the importance of the role of Youth in the 2011 election.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Amb. Sanders July 29, 2010 Remarks: My Wish for Nigeria @ 50
My Remarks to a Great Friend: @ 50, a Credible Election is in Your Hands!
(My @ 50 list for Nigeria)
By Dr. Robin Renee Sanders
Ambassador of the United States of America to Nigeria
Now this brings me to the tough part of this short program this evening where I begin my goodbyes to a country and a nation that has welcomed me -- almost as if I was a family member of this great nation --- the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
And as a family member, I have been with you through some challenging times . . . sad times . . . and some good times . . . over the last years, particularly the period between November 2009 and March 2010, but will say that I have never once waivered in encouraging support for Nigeria because I also never once waivered in my belief that everything would also turned out alright during that period and it did. You know there is a Nigerian way of doing things that must be appreciated and understood. My Team and I understood those things. We got it -- even when there was skepticism elsewhere -- we were confident that your young democracy would still steadfastly move forward and it has. I have had the opportunity to interact with the many strong and beautiful voices that blend together to make Nigeria the mosaic nation it is today.
As I thought about what I would say tonight a month out before my departure as I wanted to reflect and take a small journey with you this evening about the things I wish for my dear friend and what I wish for...the nation of Nigeria @ 50 years of age. So here is “My @ 50 list for Nigeria” as an ancestral sister of the soil, a family member, and a friend. You all know the things the U.S. Government is doing here to support Nigeria in so many ways, (in the health sector under PEPFAR and food security under feeding the future program and education, to name a few) so I won’t review everything here this evening.
You know life for me is always interesting and always incredibly amazing, it can be about moments that take your breath away and moments that change the paradigm of the future, but the goal should never be different. It is about: making a difference as a person, making a difference as a country, and making a difference as a nation. And, there is a difference between being a country and a nation and it is the latter that I wish for you as you build your democracy. So @ 50 this is what I hear Nigerians say Nigeria needs today as I have traveled to each of your 36 states. You are:
-- @ the point of making a difference not only in your future, but also on your past;
-- [You are] @ the point of embarking on the next century of your independence with a fundamental opportunity to change the social contract in your democracy
-- [You are] @ the point where social change is an imperative with your 2011 elections, the fight against corruption, and responsibility at all levels of government
-- [You are] @ the point where your road to change is paved with action to improve food security, education, the environment, your energy needs and development and self-help – these important sectoral elements I have cobbled together with friends to call the FEEEDS or change-pillars of your nation;
-- [You are] @ the point where speaking out for credible elections must turn into reality – and thoughtful consideration as to how you get there; what choices you make; what path you take to have a transparent elections so that that the conduct of your polls can secure your democratic destiny. And I know the new INEC is trying to do these things.
Tonight is about my personal message to a country on being an advocate for you at every turn, as a supporter of your democratic destiny and as a friend who wants you to do not only well, but very well. Every generation is a force of energy and the generations in Nigeria today must be a force for these changes.
You know I am going to fast forward and pretend like today . . . this evening . . . is actually July 29, 2011, and I have just laid down my Nigerian newspaper (not going to say which one I would be reading) and the headline reads: This is the Nation that Nigeria Built! But what follows behind this phrase will be the most important thing: Voter turnout High; Confidence in INEC restored; Voter Registry (not perfect but credible); Elections Free and Fair; the FEEEDS issues are being addressed. These are the things I wish for you. Remember democracies are messy as they are about a clash of ideas, they are not about violence, they are not about corruption, but they are about transparent and credible elections.
So this evening . . . these are the things I wish for my friend, the nation of Nigeria. I believe in you and your future and I will be watching as you move forward. You could have no stronger advocate in your corner. I am departing at the end of August, but I will always be here in spirit. As I take my leave I want to wish you well @ 50. So as one friend to another I want to say thank or:
“Nagode”
“Me Yatti” to those who know me as GimbiyanMuri
“Ndalo” for my friends from Nri Kingdom who know me as “AdaNri”
“EseunModupe” to my friends who call me Yeye Oba of Ogidi
“Palang” to my Horom friends
“Imela” to those who greet me as NneOma, and;
“Ndewo” to those who welcomed me as AdaMazi
I close by saying to all Nigerians . . . .
Wishing You Well @ 50 and a Credible Election in 2011!
(My @ 50 list for Nigeria)
By Dr. Robin Renee Sanders
Ambassador of the United States of America to Nigeria
Now this brings me to the tough part of this short program this evening where I begin my goodbyes to a country and a nation that has welcomed me -- almost as if I was a family member of this great nation --- the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
And as a family member, I have been with you through some challenging times . . . sad times . . . and some good times . . . over the last years, particularly the period between November 2009 and March 2010, but will say that I have never once waivered in encouraging support for Nigeria because I also never once waivered in my belief that everything would also turned out alright during that period and it did. You know there is a Nigerian way of doing things that must be appreciated and understood. My Team and I understood those things. We got it -- even when there was skepticism elsewhere -- we were confident that your young democracy would still steadfastly move forward and it has. I have had the opportunity to interact with the many strong and beautiful voices that blend together to make Nigeria the mosaic nation it is today.
As I thought about what I would say tonight a month out before my departure as I wanted to reflect and take a small journey with you this evening about the things I wish for my dear friend and what I wish for...the nation of Nigeria @ 50 years of age. So here is “My @ 50 list for Nigeria” as an ancestral sister of the soil, a family member, and a friend. You all know the things the U.S. Government is doing here to support Nigeria in so many ways, (in the health sector under PEPFAR and food security under feeding the future program and education, to name a few) so I won’t review everything here this evening.
You know life for me is always interesting and always incredibly amazing, it can be about moments that take your breath away and moments that change the paradigm of the future, but the goal should never be different. It is about: making a difference as a person, making a difference as a country, and making a difference as a nation. And, there is a difference between being a country and a nation and it is the latter that I wish for you as you build your democracy. So @ 50 this is what I hear Nigerians say Nigeria needs today as I have traveled to each of your 36 states. You are:
-- @ the point of making a difference not only in your future, but also on your past;
-- [You are] @ the point of embarking on the next century of your independence with a fundamental opportunity to change the social contract in your democracy
-- [You are] @ the point where social change is an imperative with your 2011 elections, the fight against corruption, and responsibility at all levels of government
-- [You are] @ the point where your road to change is paved with action to improve food security, education, the environment, your energy needs and development and self-help – these important sectoral elements I have cobbled together with friends to call the FEEEDS or change-pillars of your nation;
-- [You are] @ the point where speaking out for credible elections must turn into reality – and thoughtful consideration as to how you get there; what choices you make; what path you take to have a transparent elections so that that the conduct of your polls can secure your democratic destiny. And I know the new INEC is trying to do these things.
Tonight is about my personal message to a country on being an advocate for you at every turn, as a supporter of your democratic destiny and as a friend who wants you to do not only well, but very well. Every generation is a force of energy and the generations in Nigeria today must be a force for these changes.
You know I am going to fast forward and pretend like today . . . this evening . . . is actually July 29, 2011, and I have just laid down my Nigerian newspaper (not going to say which one I would be reading) and the headline reads: This is the Nation that Nigeria Built! But what follows behind this phrase will be the most important thing: Voter turnout High; Confidence in INEC restored; Voter Registry (not perfect but credible); Elections Free and Fair; the FEEEDS issues are being addressed. These are the things I wish for you. Remember democracies are messy as they are about a clash of ideas, they are not about violence, they are not about corruption, but they are about transparent and credible elections.
So this evening . . . these are the things I wish for my friend, the nation of Nigeria. I believe in you and your future and I will be watching as you move forward. You could have no stronger advocate in your corner. I am departing at the end of August, but I will always be here in spirit. As I take my leave I want to wish you well @ 50. So as one friend to another I want to say thank or:
“Nagode”
“Me Yatti” to those who know me as GimbiyanMuri
“Ndalo” for my friends from Nri Kingdom who know me as “AdaNri”
“EseunModupe” to my friends who call me Yeye Oba of Ogidi
“Palang” to my Horom friends
“Imela” to those who greet me as NneOma, and;
“Ndewo” to those who welcomed me as AdaMazi
I close by saying to all Nigerians . . . .
Wishing You Well @ 50 and a Credible Election in 2011!
Nigeria's Independence @ 50 Years: My Wish List for You @50
Nigeria will celebrate 50 years of independence on October 1, 2010. This both a landmark and a hallmark birthday for this nation of 150 million people as it reaches the half centruy mark. So I have put together a wish list for the nation of Nigeria @ 50 years of age. So here is “My @ 50 Wish List for Nigeria” as an ancestral sister of the soil, a family member, and a friend in addition to the things the U.S. Government is doing here to support Nigeria in so many ways in the health sector under PEPFAR, in food security under the feed the future program, and in education, under the African Education Initiative, or AEI).
There is a difference between being a country and a nation and it is the latter that I wish for you as you build your democracy. So @ 50 years this is what I hear Nigerians say they want for Nigeria as I have traveled to each of your 36 states. They say You Are:
-- @ the point of making a difference not only in your future, but also on your past;
-- @ the point of embarking on the next century of your independence with a fundamental opportunity to change the social contract in your democracy
-- @ the point where social change is an imperative with your 2011 elections, the fight against corruption, and responsibility at all levels of government
-- @ the point where your road to change is paved with action to improve food security, education, the environment, your economic & energy needs, democracy and build self-help.
-- @ the point where speaking out for credible elections must turn into reality – and thoughtful consideration as to how you get there; what choices you make; what path you take to have a transparent elections so that that the conduct of your polls can secure your democratic destiny. And I know the new INEC is trying to do these things.
These important sectoral elements I have cobbled together with friends to call the FEEEDS or change-pillars of your nation;
Every generation is a force of energy and the generations in Nigeria today must be a force for these changes. I am going to fast forward and pretend like today . . . this evening . . . is actually July 29, 2011, and I have just laid down my Nigerian newspaper (not going to say which one I would be reading) and the headline reads: This is the Nation that Nigeria Built! But what follows behind this phrase will be the most important thing: Voter turnout High; Confidence in INEC restored; Voter Registry (not perfect but credible); Elections Free and Fair; the FEEEDS issues are being addressed. These are the things I wish for you. Remember democracies are messy as they are about a clash of ideas, they are not about violence, they are not about corruption, but they are about transparent and credible elections.
For full remarks on Wish List for Nigeria see (http://blogitrrs.blogspot.com/2010/08/remarks-on-july-291-2010-my-wish-for.html)
There is a difference between being a country and a nation and it is the latter that I wish for you as you build your democracy. So @ 50 years this is what I hear Nigerians say they want for Nigeria as I have traveled to each of your 36 states. They say You Are:
-- @ the point of making a difference not only in your future, but also on your past;
-- @ the point of embarking on the next century of your independence with a fundamental opportunity to change the social contract in your democracy
-- @ the point where social change is an imperative with your 2011 elections, the fight against corruption, and responsibility at all levels of government
-- @ the point where your road to change is paved with action to improve food security, education, the environment, your economic & energy needs, democracy and build self-help.
-- @ the point where speaking out for credible elections must turn into reality – and thoughtful consideration as to how you get there; what choices you make; what path you take to have a transparent elections so that that the conduct of your polls can secure your democratic destiny. And I know the new INEC is trying to do these things.
These important sectoral elements I have cobbled together with friends to call the FEEEDS or change-pillars of your nation;
Every generation is a force of energy and the generations in Nigeria today must be a force for these changes. I am going to fast forward and pretend like today . . . this evening . . . is actually July 29, 2011, and I have just laid down my Nigerian newspaper (not going to say which one I would be reading) and the headline reads: This is the Nation that Nigeria Built! But what follows behind this phrase will be the most important thing: Voter turnout High; Confidence in INEC restored; Voter Registry (not perfect but credible); Elections Free and Fair; the FEEEDS issues are being addressed. These are the things I wish for you. Remember democracies are messy as they are about a clash of ideas, they are not about violence, they are not about corruption, but they are about transparent and credible elections.
For full remarks on Wish List for Nigeria see (http://blogitrrs.blogspot.com/2010/08/remarks-on-july-291-2010-my-wish-for.html)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)