The National Institute of Credit Administration (NICA) chartered, has called for deeper commitment to partnerships for sustainable national development, economic prosperity, participatory democracy and strong national defence.
Prof. Chris Onalo, the Registrar/Chief Executive Officer, NICA, made the call in a statement on Wednesday in Lagos.
Onalo, Nigeria’s foremost credit management doyen and founder of the profession in Nigeria, explained the complexity of nation-building.
According to him, the task of building a nation is as rigorous as climbing the tallest mountain in the world.
He said governance in a diverse country like Nigeria, where interests and ambitions vary, requires not only a strong leadership but also a strategic embrace of collaboration, consultation, cooperation and communication.
“Leadership must understand that delivering a service to the people, nation and the quest for prosperity is more demanding than striking a rock,” he stated.
Onalo urged those in authority to prioritise governance inclusiveness in order to tap into Nigeria’s vast intellectual and professional resources necessary for a coherent, solid and resilient nation building and development.
“There is need to build a system where everybody feels a sense of belonging, a part of the total body,” he said.
According to the NICA boss, Nigeria possesses countless professionals with high-level intellect whose contributions, if harnessed properly, can accelerate economic transformation and enhance the country’s global reputation.
“Resources are here, human capital is huge, the population is high, the opportunity is unimaginable.
“Government at all levels are encouraged to open their doors to credible professionals, academia, and institutions with strong governance frameworks, not for profit motives, but to add value,” he said.
He added that nation building requires all hands on deck to promote inclusiveness, boost the nation’s global image and promote economic growth.
He called on all tiers of government, MDAs and technocrats working with President Bola Tinubu to intentionally partner with institutions willing to add value for growth of the nation.
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