Shettima: Leaders Must Build Institutions That Outlive Their Tenure
* VP says governance should transcend elections * As Monguno, ex-NSA urges revival of Musa Usman’s development vision Sunday Aborisade in Abuja Vice-President Kashim Shettima has challenged political leaders to
Vice-President Kashim Shettima has urged political leaders in Nigeria to focus on building strong institutions and policies that will continue to serve Nigerians long after they leave office. Shettima made this call while presenting a book titled 'Service and Impact' at its launch. The book chronicles the life and legacy of Brigadier Musa Usman, the pioneer military governor of the former North-Eastern State.
The vice-president, represented by his Special Adviser on General Duties, Aliyu Modibbo, emphasized that the quality of leadership should not be measured solely by the achievements during an administration's tenure. Instead, it should be judged by the institutions, policies, and development foundations that continue to serve the people after the leader has left office.
Shettima highlighted the importance of inclusive institutions that can provide a sense of belonging to every community, especially in a region as diverse as the North-East. He cited the Musa Usman Secretariat in Maiduguri as a testament to the enduring impact of purposeful governance.
Former National Security Adviser Babagana Monguno spoke about Usman's legacy, noting that despite inheriting a region with limited infrastructure at the age of 27, Usman devoted his tenure to laying the foundations for economic and social development. Monguno listed several significant projects from Usman's administration, including the Ashaka Cement Company, Savannah Sugar Factory, and the Maiduguri Specialist Hospital.
Monguno particularly highlighted Usman's foresight in establishing the Chad Basin Development Authority, which he described as a significant legacy of his administration. Monguno urged contemporary leaders to revisit and learn from Usman's development initiatives.
Babagana Kingibe, the former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, presented the book and described Usman's leadership as collegiate. He praised Usman's ability to listen to colleagues, civil servants, and stakeholders, and his willingness to run a government as a team rather than a personal fiefdom.
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