2027: Jega Urges Leaders to Adopt More Flexible Strategy

As the country gears up for the next general elections, former INEC Chairman Attahiru Jega is urging politicians to eschew desperation and instead focus on substantive issues, a message he conveyed at the 2nd International Conference organised by the Federal University Dutse's Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences.

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Delivering a lecture titled “Challenges of Nation Building in the 21st Century,” Jega, through his representative Dr. Basiru Musa Makarfi, emphasized that leadership must be grounded in integrity, competence, and a well-defined plan to propel the nation forward.

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He cautioned politicians against prioritizing personal ambition or party interests over the nation's peace and unity, warning that they must abandon the 'do-or-die' approach and adhere to democratic principles as the electoral cycle approaches.

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Jega also stressed that elections should be viewed as a mechanism for selecting leaders of character and proven ability, rather than as a battleground, and encouraged citizens to play their part by voting for credible leaders.

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According to Jega, Nigerians have a crucial role to play by electing candidates who possess integrity, accountability, and a demonstrated commitment to public service, as leadership is a trust that must prioritize the welfare of the people.

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He further noted that good governance hinges on leaders who are honest, transparent, respect the rule of law, and can unite people to drive progress, underscoring the importance of these qualities in effective leadership.

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Vice-Chancellor Ahmad Muhammed Gumel, represented by University Librarian Ahmed Mohammed, commended the speaker and other contributors for their input, and encouraged Nigerians to foster unity, patriotism, and shared responsibility for development.

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The conference, which drew participants from universities, traditional institutions, the security sector, and civil society, provided a platform for discussing Nigeria's major challenges, including corruption, weak institutions, poor governance, insecurity, and the effects of globalisation.

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Notable Nigerians, such as former Chief of Army Staff Yusuf Buratai, former Inspector-General of Police Suleiman Abba, and former Minister of Education Ruqayyatu Ahmed Rufa’i, were also honoured at the event for their contributions to national development.