As political alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections begin to intensify, leadership scholar and governance expert, Professor Christian Harrison, has called on Nigerians to prioritise competence, integrity and institutional development over party loyalty and personality-driven politics.
Speaking during a recent interview, Harrison said Nigeria’s governance crisis has evolved beyond poor leadership into a deeper institutional problem, warning that public confidence in leaders will continue to decline unless leaders focus on building systems that outlive their time in office.
According to him, repeated cycles of failed promises and weak governance structures have widened the trust gap between citizens and political leaders.
“The problem with Nigeria is not just leadership anymore; it has become an institutional challenge,” Harrison said. “Every election season comes with hope, but when expectations are not met, people lose trust in their leaders.”
He argued that Nigeria’s biggest challenge is not a lack of capable individuals, but the failure to build enduring institutions capable of functioning independently of political personalities.
“We need to change how we assess and reward leadership. Elections should not only be about political parties. Nigerians must begin to ask what candidates are truly capable of delivering,” he stated.
Harrison stressed that sustainable national development can only be achieved through strong institutions rather than reliance on individual leaders.
“In countries like the United Kingdom and the United States, institutions continue to function regardless of who is in power. Leaders come and go, but systems remain,” he said.
He further warned against the culture of idolising political leaders and placing unrealistic expectations on individuals.
“One person cannot transform a nation alone. Leadership should be about building structures that continue to work even after a leader leaves office,” he added.
The professor also criticised the culture of overpromising in Nigerian politics, noting that many leaders campaign on unrealistic pledges that eventually deepen public frustration.
“Leadership is also about managing expectations. Politicians often promise everything from stable electricity to total economic transformation, but reality frequently falls short,” he said.
Despite his concerns, Harrison acknowledged that Nigeria has produced competent public officials who delivered measurable results. He cited former Finance Minister Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala for her role in securing debt relief for Nigeria, and late former NAFDAC Director-General Dora Akunyili for her impactful public service legacy.
“We have talented and capable people in Nigeria. The country has individuals who have delivered real results,” he noted.
Describing trust as the “currency of leadership,” Harrison said restoring confidence in government would require honesty, accountability and integrity.
“Without trust, leadership becomes impossible. Leaders must do what they say they will do,” he said.
Ahead of the 2027 elections, he urged Nigerians to scrutinise candidates more carefully by examining their competence, track records and ability to deliver results rather than focusing solely on political affiliations.
“If someone wants to become president or governor, Nigerians should ask questions about their experience, achievements and capacity to solve problems,” he stated.
Harrison also acknowledged the current economic hardship across the country but maintained that citizens are more willing to endure challenges when leaders communicate honestly and present clear recovery plans.
“Countries such as Rwanda, India and Colombia faced difficult periods, but their leaders communicated openly with citizens and provided direction,” he said.
He expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, insisting that meaningful progress remains possible if the country embraces visionary leadership and stronger institutions.
“Nigeria can still change, but we need leaders who are competent, honest and committed to building systems that will survive beyond their tenure,” Harrison added.
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