Rivers State, like many other states in Nigeria, has been faced with the challenge of subsistence governance. This is a governance approach that focuses on meeting some of the basic needs of the people to enable them to survive. While this may be necessary in some cases, it is not sustainable in the long run. To move Rivers State beyond subsistence governance, the Governor Siminalayi Fubara has been advised to adopt a strategic approach to governance.
In a news release in Port Harcourt, Sir (Dr) Leesi Gborogbosi, a strategy and management consultant, explained the concept of strategic governance. According to him, strategic governance is focused on priorities and collaborations that will make Rivers State globally competitive. This means that the state should not just aim to survive but should strive to compete with the world.
Sir (Dr) Leesi Gborogbosi’s advice to Governor Fubara of Rivers State is certainly comprehensive and forward-thinking. Transitioning from subsistence governance to strategic governance aligns with the global trend towards more proactive and long-term planning in governance.
Rivers State currently appears to be in a state of flux and uncertainty, with self-inflicted political inertia and social disharmony. To address these issues, Governor Fubara needs to continue to pursue the path of inclusivity. This will enable Rivers State to build a positive global brand that will attract home-based and foreign investors.
To achieve this, Sir (Dr) Gborogbosi advocated that Rivers State should focus on creating happiness for the citizens by increasing the Human Development Index (HDI) for seven key areas. These include good governance, a strong economy, solid education and healthcare access, a secured environment, job creation and human capital, facilitate building of new cities, innovation, and technology.
One of the key areas that Rivers State should focus on is the economy. Sir (Dr) Gborogbosi recommended that the state adopts a bottom-up approach to growing the economy. This means inspiring the Chiefs, Chairmen of Local Government Areas, Social sector, and Private sector to collaborate with the government to drive economic development, especially in the rural communities.
Equitable value distribution is another important aspect of economic development in Rivers State. This will enable everyone to have access to economic inclusion, thereby expediting a bottom-up approach to development and building trust, which is badly in short supply.
The emphasis on inclusivity is particularly noteworthy. Inclusive governance ensures that all segments of society have a stake in the state’s development, fostering trust and cooperation among citizens, government, and other stakeholders. By prioritizing the happiness and well-being of its citizens, Rivers State can create a positive environment that attracts both local and foreign investors.
By emphasizing strategic governance, focusing on priorities, and fostering collaborations, Rivers State can indeed position itself as a competitive player on the global stage. This shift involves not only meeting basic needs but also striving for excellence in key areas such as good governance, economic strength, education, healthcare, security, and innovation.
Furthermore, adopting a bottom-up approach to economic development, with collaboration from various sectors, can lead to more equitable distribution of resources and opportunities. This approach empowers local communities and ensures that economic benefits reach everyone, fostering sustainable growth and development.
Sir (Dr) Gborogbosi also stated that Gabriel Domale Consulting, the strategy and management consulting firm that he leads, will provide advisory to government ministries, departments, agencies, and local councils to help them deepen their governance processes and management practices. This will enable them to deliver good governance.
Sir (Dr) Gborogbosi’s commitment to leveraging private sector expertise through Gabriel Domale Consulting to enhance governance processes is commendable. This collaboration between the public and private sectors can bring valuable insights and best practices to government institutions, ultimately improving service delivery and promoting good governance.
Gabriel Domale Consulting, helps businesses and all tiers of government in Africa to grow. We provide knowledge and solutions to help solve critical business and governance problems.
For further inquiries, please contact:
Email: info@gabrieldomale.com
Phone: +2347034604152
Overall, Governor Fubara and the leadership of Rivers State would do well to heed Sir (Dr) Gborogbosi’s advice and prioritize strategic governance for the long-term prosperity and well-being of the state and its people.
