By Dennis Okechukwu
Governor Alex Chioma Otti has stressed that the quality of leadership, rather than political rhetoric, will determine Nigeria’s economic future, warning that incompetent governance continues to fuel poverty, unemployment, and low investment across the country.
Speaking at the 2026 TheNiche Annual Lecture in Lagos, Otti argued that only leaders with a sound understanding of economic principles can reposition the nation for sustainable growth. He maintained that Nigeria’s future depends largely on the political and economic choices made by both leaders and citizens, especially as the 2027 elections approach.
According to him, citizens must move beyond passive participation and take an active role in shaping governance by critically assessing candidates, their political parties, and their economic philosophies. He warned that declining voter turnout—dropping from 57 per cent in 2011 to less than 30 per cent in 2023—poses a serious threat to democratic accountability and economic progress.
Otti noted that economic governance is fundamentally driven by political behaviour, stressing that corruption, vote-buying, and transactional politics have continued to undermine national development. He cautioned that when elections are treated as commercial ventures, those elected often prioritise personal gain over public service, thereby weakening institutions and worsening economic conditions.
The governor further argued that strong institutions cannot thrive in a corrupt political environment, adding that poor leadership decisions have historically led to the collapse of public services and economic stagnation in various parts of the country.
Using Abia State as an example, Otti recalled how weak political leadership in the past contributed to failing infrastructure, loss of businesses, and widespread hardship. However, he said reforms driven by a service-oriented leadership approach have begun to restore investor confidence, attract businesses, and improve public service delivery in the state.
He emphasised that economic progress is closely tied to leadership orientation, noting that governments must see themselves as servants of the people and not masters. According to him, rebuilding trust in public institutions is essential for attracting investment and stimulating growth.
Otti also challenged conventional measures of development, stating that growth in gross domestic product alone is insufficient. Instead, he said true development should reflect improved living standards, job creation, poverty reduction, and reduced inequality.
He criticised overreliance on short-term welfare programmes such as cash handouts, arguing that sustainable development lies in investing in productive sectors like agriculture, power, and infrastructure. Such investments, he noted, not only create jobs but also preserve the dignity of citizens.
The Abia governor concluded by urging Nigerians to recognise the direct link between political decisions and economic outcomes, warning that the choices made in the coming elections will have far-reaching consequences for the nation’s prosperity.