The axiom that societies advance not solely through political manoeuvring but via the formulation and implementation of robust policies stressed a fundamental truth in governance.
Within this context, the saying that proficient policymakers, commonly referred to as technocrats, are pivotal to sustainable development resonates deeply.
These technocrats, distinguished by their expertise and dedication to evidence-based decision-making, represent a formidable force capable of synergizing with political leadership to navigate the complex terrain of national progress.
In contemplating the trajectory of Nigeria’s developmental aspirations, it becomes imperative to scrutinise the landscape of political party dynamics and the stewardship of its leadership.
Regrettably, political entities often find themselves ensnared in controversies, thereby diverting attention away from the imperatives of policy formulation and execution. Moreover, the occurrence of internal party crises, speculated at times to be contrived for publicity, introduces a disconcerting dimension to the evaluation of leadership efficacy.
An unsettling trend manifests in the refusal of political incumbents to acknowledge electoral outcomes without judicial contestation, compounded by instances of violence during intra-party selection processes. Such conduct not only undermines the democratic ethos but also erodes public trust, thereby setting a suboptimal precedent for emerging leaders.
Crucially, the determinants of national growth, whether in burgeoning or developed societies, rest upon foundational pillars such as justice, education, security, and healthcare, among others. While political leadership professes an understanding of the significance of these facets, the translation of rhetoric into tangible action remains uneven. Indeed, while commendable strides have been made in certain spheres, persistent deficiencies impede holistic progress.
The burgeoning phenomenon of medical tourism underscores systemic inadequacies within Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure.
The staggering financial outlay on seeking medical care abroad, as disclosed by the Central Bank Governor, Yemi Cardoso, is symptomatic of a broader malaise.
Recently, the CBN governor, Yemi Cardoso, said that from 2010 to 2020 , the country spent about $11.01 billion on medical torurism. Never have I heard that US presidents or senators leave their country for another to see medical care .
The scenario prompts contemplation of the transformative potential inherent in redirecting such resources towards fortifying domestic healthcare facilities to meet global standards.
Moreover, the recurrent disruptions in the academic and healthcare sectors, epitomised by the ASUU strikes and healthcare professionals’ protests, lay bare the systemic neglect plaguing essential services. A corollary discourse emerges concerning the exodus of political elites to foreign shores for education, exacerbating disparities and perpetuating an inequitable status quo.
The CBN also found that about $28.65 billion was spent on foreign education.
No one is saying studying abroad is bad; we are advocating that our political leaders should feel what the commoners are going through by making sure their sons or daughters face what others went through, then, sustainable solutions will be possible.
If $28.65 billion were invested in our educational system , we could describe its ripple effects. Not to talk about the security situation in the country.
The judiciary, as a linchpin of the democratic apparatus, warrants equitable remuneration and support commensurate with its pivotal role.
Part I of the schedule shows that the Chief Justice of Nigeria is entitled to: N13,462,617.95 annual basic salary or N1,121,884.83 monthly salary. He is also entitled to: N51,157,948.21 annual regular allowances or N4,263,162.35 monthly regular allowances.
The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) receives non-regular allowances including a Leave Allowance of N6,731,308.98 (when applicable), Duty Tour Allowance of N142,500 per night, and an estacode of $2,000 per night. Upon successful completion of tenure, the CJN is entitled to a severance gratuity of N80,775,707.70 and a motor vehicle loan of N53,850,471.80, repayable before the expiration of tenure.
Additionally, Professional Development Assistants for the CJN are remunerated from the National Judicial Council (NJC) pool.
Other Justices of the Supreme Court receive an annual basic salary of N9,913,394.22 or a monthly salary of N826,116.19. They are also entitled to annual regular allowances of N50,558,310.52 or monthly regular allowances of N4,213,192.54. Non-regular allowances for these justices include N9,913,394.22 for rent (annually), N4,956,697.11 for Leave Allowance (when applicable), Duty Tour Allowance of N100,000 per night, and an estacode of $1,300 per night. Severance gratuity after tenure completion amounts to N29,740,182.66, with an additional furniture allowance of the same amount. A motor vehicle loan of N39,653,576.88 is also provided, repayable before the end of tenure.
Professional Development Assistants for these justices are funded from the NJC pool, and utilities and security are provided (TDP).
The President of the Court of Appeal receives an annual basic salary of N9,913,394.22 or a monthly salary of N826,116.19. Appellate court judges are entitled to annual regular allowances of N52,540,989.37 or monthly regular allowances of N4,478,415.78.
Non-regular allowances include N9,913,394.22 for Rent (annually), N4,956,697.11 for Leave Allowance (when applicable), Duty Tour Allowance of N100,000 per night, and an estacode of $1,300 per night.
After tenure completion, the severance gratuity amounts to N29,740,182.66, with an additional furniture allowance of the same amount. A motor vehicle loan of N39,653,576.88 is provided, repayable before the .end of tenure. Professional Development Assistants for these judges are funded from the NJC pool
The recent advocacy for enhanced compensation for judicial officers, juxtaposed with the relatively stagnant remuneration of university lecturers, security personnel, and medical practitioners, underscores the imperative of equitable resource allocation.
In summation, the imperative for sustainable development necessitates a paradigm shift in governance ethos, predicated upon evidence-based policy formulation and equitable resource allocation. Political leadership must transcend the allure of short-term gains, embracing a holistic vision of progress that acknowledges and addresses the multifaceted imperatives of societal advancement.
