Politics should be a force for societal advancement, not a playground for temporary fixes. Harold Lasswell’s famous definition of politics as “who gets what, when, and how?” underscores that leadership is about managing resources to drive development. It is through this lens that politicians must rethink their approach—focusing not on fleeting gestures, but on lasting, impactful projects that transform lives across generations.
Instead of handing out motorbikes, cars, or phones—mere tokens that bring short-term satisfaction—politicians should invest in legacy projects. These projects, like building schools, hospitals, roads, and utilities, lay the foundation for sustainable growth. A new clinic, a block of classrooms, or the provision of clean water does far more than fulfill immediate needs; it creates long-term value by uplifting communities and enriching lives for years to come.
Nigeria has seen politicians who understood the importance of legacy projects and the lasting impact they create. A few notable examples include:
1. Late Chief Obafemi Awolowo: As Premier of the Western Region, Awolowo initiated free primary education in the region, a move that greatly improved literacy levels and laid the groundwork for the region’s intellectual and economic development. His investment in education continues to benefit the people decades after his time in office.
2. Late Alhaji Ahmadu Bello: The Sardauna of Sokoto and Premier of the Northern Region focused on unifying and modernizing Northern Nigeria. His establishment of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) in Zaria was a monumental legacy project aimed at educating future generations in the region, an institution that remains one of the largest and most respected in West Africa.
3. Late Dr. Michael Okpara : As Premier of Eastern Nigeria, Okpara’s focus on agricultural development and industrialization left a significant impact. His establishment of farm settlements and industries ensured food security and employment for many people in the region, a legacy that still resonates today.
4. Late Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe: The first President of Nigeria, Azikiwe’s efforts to establish the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, was a visionary move toward promoting higher education and research. This legacy project continues to serve as a beacon of learning and progress in Nigeria.
5. Alhaji Lateef Jakande: As the Governor of Lagos State (1979–1983), Jakande was known for his massive investment in education and housing. His administration built affordable housing estates across Lagos, which remain in use today, and launched several public schools, increasing access to education.
6. Senator Abdullahi Adamu: A leader from my home state, Nasarawa, Senator Abdullahi Adamu is a trailblazer in initiating legacy projects. As a former governor, he established the prestigious Nasarawa State University (NSUK), which continues to deliver quality education to Nigerians and beyond. He also facilitated the creation of schools of health and nursing and, in his hometown of Agwada, Kokona Local Government Area, pushed for the establishment of Phoenix University. These institutions have profoundly impacted the state and its people, offering invaluable education and development opportunities.
These leaders understood that legacy projects like schools, hospitals, and institutions of higher learning provide long-term benefits to society. Their initiatives stand as testaments to their forward-thinking leadership, impacting Nigeria even after their tenure in office.
The practice of distributing phones and other such items is particularly disheartening. While they may serve as symbolic gestures of goodwill, they fail to address the fundamental issues that drive true development. How does a phone, for instance, improve the overall well-being of a community or stimulate its economic growth? It doesn’t. These handouts only scratch the surface, leaving the root causes of underdevelopment untouched.
Politicians must reframe their priorities, focusing on substantive projects that address the core needs of society. Healthcare, education, and infrastructure form the bedrock of a thriving community, and investing in these areas ensures that the impact of leadership endures long after the current political term.
In short, political success is not measured by handouts but by heritage—the legacy of projects that stand the test of time and continue to serve future generations. It’s time for our leaders to leave behind a legacy of lasting progress.
Thomas Danjuma Abu can be reached via danjumaabu3750@gmail.com or +2348062380296.
