Donald Duke: Nigeria Needs Competence, Not Political Loyalty

Donald Duke, the presidential candidate of the People's Redemption Party in the 2027 general election, has emphasized the significance of competence, integrity, and capacity over political loyalty when addressing Nigeria's pressing issues and building robust institutions. A former governor of Cross River State, Duke stated that his administration, if elected, would prioritize competence in appointments to key government positions, ending the practice of rewarding political patronage.

Duke's administration would ensure that public offices are filled by individuals possessing the necessary skills and moral character to deliver results.

During an interview, Duke reflected on his record as governor, stating that it demonstrated his commitment to leaving institutions and the state in better condition than he found them. He asserted that winning an election should signify the conclusion of politics and the beginning of earnest governance. The president, in Duke's view, should assemble the most capable team to drive the country's development goals.

According to the former governor, politics ends after the election, while governance begins with the assembling of the best talent to move the nation forward.

Duke argued vehemently that political supporters and campaign loyalists should not dictate who occupies government positions. He firmly stated that public offices should be held by people who possess the requisite competence and integrity to achieve outcomes. "It's not those who rallied around you during the campaign that should determine the quality of governance," Duke emphasized. "Politics is over; governance is about getting the best team."

He further stressed that each government appointee should be guided by the responsibility to elevate the country rather than serve personal or political interests. Duke reiterated, "Every appointee must have one creed: leave the country better than you met it." Nigeria's economic and institutional challenges, Duke argued, necessitate visionary leadership that places national interests above partisan considerations.

He maintained that strengthening public institutions is crucial to restoring citizens' trust in government and laying the foundation for sustainable economic development.

In addition to these reforms, Duke called for comprehensive economic overhauls, including the redesign of the country's financial system to promote productivity, decrease borrowing costs, and stimulate private-sector investment. He criticized high interest rates and mounting public debt, while questioning what he described as misguided government spending.

The former governor advocated for increased investment in critical sectors such as electricity, agriculture, healthcare, education, and the judiciary, asserting that these areas are vital for expanding economic opportunities and enhancing citizens' welfare. Duke urged for reforms in revenue generation, energy policy, and the justice system.

He believed that Nigeria possesses ample human and natural resources to achieve rapid development, but that the country could only realize its potential through disciplined leadership, competence, accountability, and a steadfast commitment to the national interest.