Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, advocated for evidence-based decision-making and robust institution building at the Centre for Values in Leadership’s Annual Lecture and International Leadership Symposium in Lagos. The event, held in celebration of Prof. Pat Utomi’s 68th birthday and the launch of his new book ‘Power, Politics, Public Policy Process and Performance,’ spotlighted the hurdles faced by states within Nigeria’s current constitutional framework.
Navigating the Presidential Democratic Landscape
In a passionate address delivered by his representative, Secretary to the State Government Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, Dr. Mbah emphasized the pivotal role of evidence-based decision-making in instigating enduring, transformative change. He maintained that substantiated data is key to crafting effective policies and directing resources towards areas of greatest need.
The symposium, brimming with political heavyweights, included Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi and former governors. The distinguished panelists engaged in an insightful discourse on the necessity of expanding constitutional powers and securing presidential backing to confront national issues, most notably insecurity.
The Power of Evidence-Based Decisions
“Evidence-based decision-making is the cornerstone of good governance,” declared Prof. Onyia, echoing Dr. Mbah’s sentiments. “It is a critical tool that ensures our policies and actions are grounded in empirical data, rather than anecdotal evidence or conjecture.”
The panelists concurred, stressing the importance of instilling a culture of evidence-based decision-making in all tiers of government. They highlighted that political maneuvers, while essential, must be complemented by sound policies and proper implementation.
Strengthening Institutions for Lasting Impact
Addressing the symposium, Dr. Mbah’s representative underscored the significance of strong institutions in bolstering Nigeria’s democratic system. “Robust institutions provide the necessary checks and balances, safeguarding our democracy from the whims of individuals,” he said. “By investing in institutional development, we can ensure the sustainability of our efforts and foster a system that delivers results for all Nigerians.”
The panelists echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for continued investment in institutional capacity building. They stressed that strong institutions are vital in fostering accountability, transparency, and effective service delivery.
As Prof. Utomi’s birthday celebrations wove through the symposium, his book’s message resonated with the gathering: that power, politics, and public policy are intricately intertwined, and their successful navigation relies on evidence-based decisions and strong institutional foundations.
The symposium concluded with a renewed commitment from the panelists and attendees to champion evidence-based decision-making and institutional development in their respective spheres. As Nigeria continues to grapple with the challenges of its presidential democratic system, the dialogue initiated at the symposium serves as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards effective governance and sustainable development.
