Opinions

The Enormous Tasks Ahead for the League of Northern Democrats (LND)

September 13, 2024

By Calvin Anadio Lawan.

The League of Northern Democrats (LND) faces a monumental challenge as it sets out to tackle the socioeconomic issues that have long held Northern Nigeria back. Poverty, unemployment, insecurity, and poor infrastructure continue to plague our region, despite our rich natural resources and cultural heritage. The LND, however, is poised to fill the leadership gaps that have contributed to these problems, working with key stakeholders, including setting the criteria for public office holders at all levels, to bring about sustainable development and prosperity for Northern Nigeria.

Personally, I feel a key issue contributing to our region’s struggles is a lack of coordinated leadership. The LND must step up by bridging this leadership gap, offering direction where past efforts have faltered. To address the pressing problem of unemployment, particularly among the youth, the LND should actively ensure the next crop of political leaders are those committed to the task of spearheading job creation initiatives.

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One of our traditional strengths in the North is agriculture, a crucial sector with untapped potential. The LND must ensure political leaders vying to occupy elective offices come 2027 are individuals with the needed competency to implement policies that modernize agriculture through mechanization, processing, and better access to local and international markets.

I am hoping the LND will be at the forefront in advocating for the establishment of vocational training centers that teach practical skills, empowering the youth to either gain employment or become self-reliant entrepreneurs. It is this kind of leadership that will create long-term employment opportunities and foster a more robust economy.

The education sector in Northern Nigeria is another area where the leadership gap has had severe consequences. Many schools are underfunded and lack basic infrastructure. The next set of leaders the LND should canvass for should be individuals that have the requisite knowledge and the political will to push for comprehensive reforms that prioritize quality education over the sheer number of institutions. It is crucial to repair and improve existing schools, train teachers, and ensure students have access to quality learning materials.

While agriculture is essential, it cannot/must not be our only source of income. Economic diversification is critical to reducing poverty, improving income levels, and ensuring a stable future. This is where I expect the LND to provide us the set of leadership that can push for policies that encourage the growth of sectors such as manufacturing, tourism, and services.

Tourism, for example, is an untapped opportunity. Northern Nigeria is home to many historical and cultural landmarks that could attract visitors from around the world. However, to fully unlock the potential of tourism, the LND must ensure the next set of leaders are those individuals that can improve security and infrastructure in key areas. A well-developed tourism industry can generate significant revenue and create thousands of jobs for local communities.

No matter how well-planned the economic or educational reforms are, they will fail without security. The rise of insurgency, banditry, and kidnappings has created an atmosphere of fear and instability in our region, scaring off businesses and stalling development.

We can draw valuable lessons from other regions around the world that have successfully overcome similar challenges through strong leadership.

Kerala, India: Once underdeveloped, Kerala transformed itself by focusing on education, healthcare, and social development. Through its leadership, the state government invested in building an educated and healthy population, which attracted investment and helped create jobs. We can take a similar approach by prioritizing human capital development, ensuring that education and healthcare form the bedrock of Northern Nigeria’s growth.

Bavaria, Germany: Bavaria was once one of the poorer regions in Germany. However, with strategic leadership, it became a major economic hub by investing in infrastructure, education, and technology. By promoting innovation and developing key industries like automotive and engineering, Bavaria was able to create jobs and boost income levels. We must encourage similar investments in infrastructure and technology to boost our region’s economy.

The road ahead for the League of Northern Democrats is long, but not impossible. By stepping into the leadership void and providing direction on critical issues such as job creation, education, economic diversification, and security, the LND can help Northern Nigeria rise above its challenges. Learning from successful regions like Kerala and Bavaria, the LND can advocate for policies and initiatives that will bring lasting change.

Leadership at both the grassroots and state levels is essential. The LND must work with leaders at Federal, States, and LGAs levels to ensure that their vision for a prosperous Northern Nigeria is realized. It will take time, effort, and dedication, but with the right leadership and vision, Northern Nigeria can achieve sustainable development and prosperity.

Lawan, writes from Yola.