Professor Toyin Falola has recommended the introduction of new programmes that explore ideas around power structures, political dynamics and policy challenges in Nigerian universities for sustainable development and democratic consolidation.
Professor Falola made the recommendation on Friday, at the Benue State University’s combined convocation lecture held at the Auditorium 1, College of Health Sciences of the University in Makurdi.
The University Don who is the Chairman of Jacob and Frances Sanger Mossiker in the Humanities at the University of Texas at Austin, USA, in his convocation lecture titled “Power Politics and Policies”, recommended the introduction of new courses that would underscore the need for a reformed political culture that prioritizes accountability, inclusiveness and transparency in policymakers.
The Professor suggested that strengthening judicial independence, advancing transparency and accountability as well as adopting economic policies to reduce poverty would improve governance quality, meet the needs of the people, guarantee the rights of citizens and foster sustainable development.
“To rethink power, the structural social economic and political problems are to be solved. We have to build institutions and the rule of law, advancing transparency and accountability. Boosting public participation and civic engagement. Decentralizing power and resources, improving electoral conduct, spending on human capital development, adopting economic policies to reduce poverty and applying technology to drive public services”, he maintained.
“The bottom line is that democracy has much to offer Nigerians ranging from political stability and economic development to protecting human rights and education. They can be enjoyed only by having a healthy democracy, including robust institutions, adherence to the rule of law and citizen participation. Practicing these elements of democracy would lead Nigeria to a better and more equitable society”, he said
In his opening remarks, Vice Chancellor of Benue State University, Prof Tor Iorapuu, expressed delight in the fact that the institution is hosting distinguished personalities. He acknowledged the fact that the university was coming back to life and admonished all present at the event to sit back and enjoy themselves as they listened to the convocation lecture and acquire more knowledge.
The high point of the event was the presentation of awards to awardees who have distinguished themselves in their career. The awardees were Prof Simon Ubwa, Prof Anthony Ijohor (SAN), Eko Ejembi Eko (SAN), and Barr. Jeremiah Terkaa Aondo (SAN). Others are Prof Barnabas Ikyo, Dr Johnson Echor, Mr Aondover Zwawua and Mr Benjamin Houghul.
