Attahiru Jega, the former chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, has called on Nigerian politicians to abandon desperation and focus on real governance issues as the country prepares for the next general elections in 2027. Jega made the appeal while delivering a lecture at the 2nd International Conference organised by the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences of the Federal University Dutse, Jigawa State.
Delivered on his behalf by Dr. Basiru Musa Makarfi, Jega's lecture titled "Challenges of Nation Building in the 21st Century" stressed that true leadership must be grounded in integrity, competence, and a clear roadmap for national progress. He warned that politicians should never place personal ambition or party interests above the peace and unity of the nation.
Jega was explicit in his message to politicians contesting the 2027 elections. "As we approach another electoral cycle, politicians must abandon the 'do-or-die' approach and commit to democratic ideals. Elections should not be a battleground, but a process for choosing leaders of character and proven capacity," he said. The former INEC boss believes that the nature of campaigns and the tone set by political actors can either strengthen or weaken democracy in Nigeria.
The electoral reformer did not limit his call to politicians alone. He also challenged Nigerian voters to play their role in ensuring the country gets better leadership. "Nigerians must also rise to the occasion by electing credible candidates and individuals with integrity, accountability, and a demonstrable commitment to public service. Leadership is a trust, and those entrusted with it must prioritise the welfare of the people," Jega explained.
For Jega, good governance rests on three pillars: leaders who are honest and transparent, those who respect the rule of law, and those who can bring people together for progress. Without these qualities, he argues, no nation can truly advance regardless of its natural resources or human potential.
The Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University Dutse, Ahmad Muhammed Gumel, represented by the University Librarian Ahmed Mohammed, praised Jega and other speakers for their contributions to the national discourse. Gumel urged Nigerians to prioritise unity, patriotism, and shared responsibility for development in the years ahead.
The conference brought together an impressive array of participants drawn from universities across Nigeria, traditional institutions, the security sector, and civil society organisations. The discussions centred on major challenges confronting Nigeria, including the scourge of corruption, the weakness of institutions, poor governance practices, the ongoing security crisis, and the complex effects of globalisation on the nation.
The event also served as a platform to honour some of Nigeria's most respected public servants. Former Chief of Army Staff Yusuf Buratai received recognition, as did former Inspector-General of Police Suleiman Abba and former Minister of Education Ruqayyatu Ahmed Rufa'i, among others honoured for their service to national development.
Jega's intervention comes at a time when political tensions continue to simmer across Nigeria following the 2023 elections, which were marked by allegations of irregularities and disputes that extended to the courts. His call for a shift in political culture suggests that lessons from that election cycle must inform how politicians approach the 2027 contest. The former electoral commission chairman will likely continue to monitor the political environment and offer guidance as various political parties begin their preparations for the next general elections.
