Nigeria Needs a President Who Can Govern, Not

The phrase “Nigeria needs a president who can govern, not …” is the headline of a 2023 opinion piece by political analyst Chidi Odinkalu. In the article he argues that Nigeria’s chronic problems—corruption, insecurity, economic stagnation, and weak institutions—require a leader with practical administrative skills, a commitment to rule of law, and the ability to build consensus, rather than a charismatic populist or partisan politician who relies on rhetoric and patronage. He calls for a president who will strengthen the civil service, enforce accountability, and pursue evidence‑based policies to restore public trust and drive sustainable development. Views Nigeria