Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed has stressed the need for African leaders to govern their people with integrity, vision and a deep commitment towards their wellbeing.
Speaking as a special guest at the recent 2024 Goodluck Jonathan Foundation’s Democracy Dialogue held in Benin City, Edo State, the governor told the gathering that his administration has strived to embody the principles of effective leadership through working tirelessly to tackle corruption in all its ramifications.
According to the governor, this is in addition to improved service delivery and fostering an environment conducive to economic growth and social development across the state.
Represented by his deputy, Mohammed Auwal Jatau, the governor explained that through inclusive and transparent governance, his administration was able to mobilize resources and channel them towards the critical priorities that matter most to its people.
In a statement by Jatau’s media aide, Mallam Muslim Lawal and made available to journalists in Bauchi yesterday, Bala Mohammed said through innovative policies and initiatives, his administration has also improved access to quality education, in both urban and rural areas of the state with the construction and renovation of schools, training and empowering of teachers as well as implementation of curricula that is tailored to the unique needs and aspirations of the people.
He said the theme of this year’s Foundation’s Dialogue “Functional Education and Effective Political Leadership as a Panacea to Africa’s Growth and Development,” is one that resonates deeply with the people of Bauchi State.
The governor also stressed the need for the state governments to make it a priority to invest heavily in the educational system, recognising that a well- educated populace is the foundation for a prosperous and progressive society.
“I feel highly honoured and delighted to be invited to this 2024 Goodluck Jonathan Foundation’s Democracy Dialogue held in Benin City, Edo State. The sustenance of this important annual event is a testimony of the unwavering commitment of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation to engender democratic ideas and good governance across our continent.
“Under the leadership of my boss, His Excellency, former President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, the Foundation has been at the forefront of strengthening democratic institutions and fostering meaningful dialogues that uplift the voices of the people.
The unwavering commitment to these noble causes has been an inspiration to us all, and it is a testament to your enduring legacy as a statesman and a champion of democracy not only in Nigeria, but in Africa as a whole.
“The challenges facing Africa are complex and multifaceted, but I am convinced that by investing in functional education and nurturing effective political leadership, we can unlock the immense potential of our continent and pave the way for a brighter, more prosperous future.
“This is the vision that the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation has championed, and it is a vision that I wholeheartedly support. However, education alone is not enough. Effective political leadership is also crucial in ensuring that the benefits of education are translated into tangible improvements in the lives of our people,” he said.