In a recent discussion with the Special Adviser To The President On Economic Matters, Dr. Tope Fasua, Engr. Bola Babarinde shared a series of bold ideas and observations that touch on Nigeria’s economic future, governance culture, and regional competitiveness. His remarks, shaped by his participation in the Renewed Hope Global Conference Diaspora Engagement to support continuity of the foundation laid by the APC administration under Bola Ahmed Tinubu, were framed around the broader objective of sustaining reforms and enabling Nigerians to experience the full dividends of democracy since the country’s return to civilian rule in 1999.
At the heart of Engr. Babarinde’s remarks is an ambitious proposal he intends to present to President Tinubu. The plan aims to generate 20 million jobs within 24 months through a novel, homegrown strategy. While he did not disclose the details, the scale of the proposal signals an urgent response to Nigeria’s unemployment challenge. If realized, such an initiative could significantly impact sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, digital services, and infrastructure, all of which are widely regarded as key drivers of employment and inclusive growth.
Building on the success of the Cotonou engagement, Engr. Babarinde expressed optimism about a more expansive edition planned for Pretoria in South Africa. He emphasized the country’s strong economic base, particularly in mining, agriculture, and energy, and noted that hosting the event in Pretoria, the administrative capital where he resides, increases the likelihood of participation from high-ranking government officials and cabinet members. Such engagement could deepen bilateral cooperation and open new opportunities for investment and knowledge exchange.
He also raised concerns about civic responsibility and institutional effectiveness within Nigeria. Specifically, he criticized the perceived underperformance of the National Orientation Agency in promoting citizen awareness on empathy, lawful conduct, and adherence to traffic regulations. Issues such as road rage, disregard for traffic rules, and the behavior of commercial transport operators, including motorcycle riders and public drivers, were highlighted as symptoms of a broader societal challenge that requires urgent attention.
Reflecting on his journey between Cotonou and Lagos, Engr. Babarinde pointed out the stark contrast in environmental cleanliness, orderliness, and security processes. He noted that the Republic of Benin maintains a more streamlined and professional system with minimal checkpoints, while the Nigerian side, particularly from the Seme border through Badagry to Agbara, is characterized by numerous checkpoints and instances of extortion by some law enforcement officers. He argued that such practices discourage tourism and undermine Nigeria’s international image, despite the presence of more professional agencies like the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency.
On infrastructure, he described the road conditions between Badagry and the Seme border as hazardous, posing serious risks to commuters, while commending ongoing improvements along the Agbara to Badagry corridor. He stressed the need to extend similar development to border areas to enhance safety, trade, and regional integration.
Engr. Babarinde also highlighted urban management challenges within Lagos, including the increasing use of wheelbarrows and locally fabricated trucks, popularly known as “Bolla,” on major highways, even at night. He further lamented the normalization of one-way driving violations, describing these trends as indicative of weak enforcement and calling for immediate intervention by relevant authorities.
A central theme in his reflections was the importance of learning from other African countries. He echoed the position of Dr. Fasua that Nigeria’s size and population should not prevent it from adopting best practices from smaller nations. According to him, countries like the Republic of Benin demonstrate that orderliness, respect for public systems, and effective governance are achievable, and Nigeria must embrace humility and openness in its pursuit of progress.
Engr. Bola Babarinde’s observations ultimately present both a critique and a forward-looking perspective, emphasizing the need for economic innovation, stronger institutions, improved infrastructure, and a renewed commitment to civic responsibility as Nigeria continues its development journey.
