Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has suggested the adoption of Chinese model for leadership selection in Nigeria.
He said that the model is a good way of fetching quality people among citizens for leadership roles.
He said this while speaking at the 24th National Conference of the Nigerian Institution of Agricultural Engineers held at the Nigerian Society of Engineers’ headquarters, Abuja.
The governor emphasised the need for a more structured and merit-based approach to election into leadership positions at all levels.
He argued that if properly utilised, Nigeria could benefit greatly from the Chinese Model.
“I am always referring to the election system in China. In China, they do selection versus election. First, they will identify credible leaders with proven integrities based on past records. They evaluate the potential of all those who have been in a public office over a period of time; then, they select the best. After that, they subject the best for election,” he explained.
The governor also called on Nigerians to be committed in becoming good followers while advocating for good leadership.
He noted that effective governance can only be achieved with both good leadership and followership.
“Our problem here in Nigeria is not only about the leadership but also followership. I believe we need to shift our focus to two critical components rather than one: leadership as well as the followership.
“I strongly believe there will be no meaningful achievements without good leadership. However, followership is equally important, so as much as we need good leaders, we also need good citizens who can distinguish between their right and left,” he said.
Zulum was accompanied to the event by APC party members, legislative member and some officials of his cabinet.
