Governance Report: Urgent Need for Comprehensive Reforms

Mo Ibrahim Report

Nigeria’s ranking as one of the 11 African countries with the highest level of governance deterioration over the past decade shows the urgent need for comprehensive reforms.

Development Diaries reports that the country dropped three spots from 30th to 33rd in Africa, ranking among the worst-run states since 2014, according to the Mo Ibrahim Foundation’s 2024 Ibrahim Index of African Governance (IIAG).

Nigeria’s governance performance has severely declined, and this decline reflects deep-rooted issues in the country’s governance framework, particularly in areas like security, rule of law, and anti-corruption efforts, as noted in the report.

President Bola Tinubu must address these challenges to restore public trust in government institutions and rebuild the country’s reputation in Africa.

One critical area requiring urgent reform is transparency and accountability, with Nigeria scoring a dismal 28.9 percent on anti-corruption and 47.3 percent on accountability.

Without a transparent system that holds public officials accountable, the country will continue to face governance challenges.

The president needs to make anti-corruption efforts a top priority, strengthening agencies like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and ensuring that corrupt officials, both past and present, are held to account.

Transparency initiatives, including public disclosure of government expenditures and contracts, will be key to improving the government’s credibility.

Another critical aspect is improving the rule of law and security. The report highlights Nigeria’s alarming score of 39 percent in security and rule of law, and an abysmal 2.1 percent in the absence of armed conflict, emphasising the urgent need for reforms.

A nation where citizens feel unsafe and legal processes are unreliable cannot foster development or attract investment.

There is a need for the strengthening of institutions such as the judiciary and police, ensuring they are independent, efficient, and capable of upholding justice for all citizens.

Additionally, tackling insurgency, banditry, and communal violence must be at the forefront of government policies.

Economic opportunities and social protection also need significant improvements. With Nigeria scoring only 48.6 percent on economic opportunities and 44 percent on social protection, it is evident that many citizens are being left behind in terms of economic inclusion and access to basic services.

Policies that promote small and medium enterprises (SMEs), improve infrastructure, and enhance access to capital for the underserved population should be prioritised.

Finally, the government must focus on long-term institutional reforms that strengthen governance and promote sustainable development.

Nigeria’s middling scores on health (44.6 percent), education (51 percent), and the environment (45 percent) highlight the need for a comprehensive strategy to address these sectors.

Development Diaries calls on President Tinubu to prioritise reforms in these key areas in order to create a more inclusive and prosperous Nigeria while rebuilding trust between citizens and their government.

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