Former speaker advocates energy reforms, leadership accountability, and tax innovations…
At the 14th Convocation Ceremony of Achievers University, Owo, former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, CFR, delivered a stirring address urging bold and decisive leadership to address Nigeria’s pressing challenges.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s resolve to implement reforms and underscored the urgency of tackling critical issues like power sector reform, youth empowerment, and leadership accountability.
Dogara, who served as Speaker from 2015 to 2019, stressed the importance of resolving Nigeria’s energy crisis, calling it the cornerstone of national development.
“Let us fix the energy crisis. Without power, our efforts to industrialize would remain a pipe dream,” he declared.
He criticized years of heavy investment in the energy sector with little progress and called for the acceleration of privatization in the power sector to ensure a reliable energy supply.
He also lauded President Tinubu’s governance style, praising his willingness to confront tough challenges.
Dogara highlighted Tinubu’s achievements, including freeing local governments from economic stagnation and introducing bold tax reforms to the National Assembly.
“I see a glimmer of hope that we may well be dealing with a leader prepared to lead with unbridled courage, even at personal cost,” Dogara stated.
Dogara encouraged critics of the president’s tax policies to offer constructive alternatives, describing Tinubu’s proposals as a step in the right direction.
“I support the President’s tax reforms not because they are perfect but because it is the right thing to do,” he said, emphasizing the need for dialogue to refine these measures.
He also highlighted the role of academia in driving national progress, urging universities to prioritize research and innovation.
“As centres of learning, universities must focus on solutions to Nigeria’s economic problems,” Dogara said, advocating partnerships between academia, industries, and the government to foster innovation.
Addressing the graduating students, Dogara inspired them to take ownership of Nigeria’s future.
“The road ahead may be challenging, but you are equipped with the tools to overcome it. Take pride in your achievements and embrace the responsibility that comes with them,” he said.
In his closing remarks, Dogara called on Nigerians to unite and act decisively to build a nation that works for all.
“The time for action is now. With determination, we can transform these challenges into opportunities for a brighter future,” he concluded.
The event, which marked a significant milestone for the Achievers University graduating class, served as a platform for Dogara to outline his vision for a united and prosperous Nigeria driven by bold leadership and innovation.