The Crucial Role of National Planning for Nigeria’s Development
Nigeria’s journey towards robust development is intrinsically linked to the implementation of a functional national development plan, a sentiment strongly articulated by former Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar. Speaking at the launch of “The Triumph of Grace,” the autobiography of former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Oba Olu Falae, Abubakar, represented by former SGF Yayale Ahmed, underscored the critical importance of strategic national planning, warning that its absence would perpetually hinder the nation’s progress.
The event, held at the Nigeria Institute of International Affairs in Lagos, served as a platform to not only celebrate Oba Falae’s life and contributions but also to reiterate a core principle of effective governance. Abubakar highlighted Falae’s significant role in shaping Nigeria’s Second and Third National Development Plans as one of his most enduring legacies. He asserted that without a comprehensive development blueprint, Nigeria would continue to grapple with its developmental challenges, stating, “In a country like ours, without a development plan, we will never make it.” This lack of foresight, he cautioned, is the root cause of the nation’s persistent struggles and its inability to find lasting peace and progress.
Abubakar issued a fervent call to action, urging political leaders, administrators, business magnates, religious figures, and traditional rulers to recommit to structured national development planning. He emphasized that this is not a task for a select few but a collective responsibility that requires a return to the foundational principles of strategic foresight.
Nigeria has, in the past, developed several national development plans, including:
- First National Development Plan: 1962–1968
- Second National Development Plan: 1970–1974
- Third National Development Plan: 1975–1980
- Fourth National Development Plan: 1981–1985
More recent initiatives include the Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (2017–2020), the Economic Sustainability Plan (2020), and the National Development Plan 2021–2025. However, the discourse at the event suggests that the effectiveness and implementation of these plans remain a subject of critical concern.
Celebrating a Life of Service and Integrity
Beyond the emphasis on national planning, the occasion was a profound tribute to Oba Olu Falae. Abdulsalami Abubakar lauded Falae as a patriotic and courageous public servant, commending his bravery in seeking the presidency despite facing considerable political pressure and intimidation. He described Falae as a paragon of democratic ideals and a distinguished public servant.
President Bola Tinubu, represented by the current SGF, George Akume, echoed these sentiments, characterizing Falae as a symbol of integrity, discipline, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to national development. Tinubu described the launch of the autobiography as a celebration of a life dedicated to service, sacrifice, and the nation’s progress.
Tinubu highlighted Falae’s multifaceted career, spanning public service, economic management, and traditional leadership, as a testament to purposeful leadership. He specifically praised Falae’s tenure as Minister of Finance, noting his disciplined approach and strong economic management during a critical juncture in Nigeria’s history. “His tenure was marked by a strong commitment to financial responsibility, macroeconomic stability and efficient management of public resources,” Tinubu remarked.
The Enduring Influence of Traditional Rulers
President Tinubu also seized the opportunity to address the role of traditional rulers in contemporary Nigeria. He described Oba Falae as a vital bridge between traditional institutions and modern governance, whose consistent advocacy for peace, unity, and justice has been invaluable. The President urged traditional rulers nationwide to play more active roles in fostering peace and security within their communities.
“At a time when our nation faces challenges in security and social cohesion, the role of a royal father has become even more critical,” Tinubu stated. He emphasized that peace and security are shared responsibilities, requiring collaboration across all strata of society. He called upon traditional rulers to champion dialogue, discourage violence, and cultivate unity, ensuring their palaces remain sanctuaries for peace, conflict resolution, and moral guidance. The administration pledged continued collaboration with traditional institutions, recognizing their crucial contributions to national security, social harmony, and grassroots development.
President Tinubu expressed his hope that “The Triumph of Grace” would serve as a beacon of inspiration, particularly for the younger generation of Nigerians, offering them lessons in perseverance, patriotism, and integrity.
A Historical Perspective on Development Planning
Former Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko, in his book review, reinforced the argument for structured national development planning. He asserted that Nigeria experienced its most significant governance advancements during the eras when such plans were diligently implemented. Mimiko detailed Falae’s active participation in pivotal phases of Nigeria’s political and economic evolution, particularly during the formative years of national development planning.
Mimiko elaborated on the foundational role of these plans in early Nigerian governance, noting that many economic policies and infrastructure projects were direct outcomes of structured planning. He specifically referenced the first three national development plans, underscoring Falae’s early involvement as a planning officer in drafting these crucial documents.
The 501-page autobiography, Mimiko noted, is more than a personal narrative; it is a vital historical document offering profound insights into Nigeria’s governance, economic planning, and public service history. Mimiko also advocated for the government to revisit the recommendations of the 2014 National Conference report, describing it as a comprehensive and holistic framework.
Mimiko’s review traced Falae’s life, highlighting his disciplined, brilliant, and principled character, shaped by his upbringing and education, which profoundly influenced his leadership and dedication to national service. The book, he concluded, offers valuable lessons on leadership, public service, patriotism, and the pursuit of national development.
The event was graced by a distinguished assembly of personalities, including the author’s wife, Rachael Falae; Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State; Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State (represented by his deputy); former Governors Kayode Fayemi and Kofoworola Bucknor-Akerele; Chief Michael Ade-Ojo; traditional rulers led by Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi; political figures such as Olabode George and Dr. Sadiq Abubakar; and other notable individuals.
Governor Aiyedatiwa characterized Falae’s life as an exemplar of resilience, diligence, and integrity, viewing the autobiography as a roadmap of triumphs and lessons learned. Babagana Kingibe, reflecting on Falae’s career, remarked that he was “one of the great presidents Nigeria never had.” Olabode George urged Falae to play a role in unifying the Afenifere socio-political group. Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi called for the upgrade of Falae’s chieftaincy title.
In his own address, Oba Falae shared personal anecdotes of overcoming adversity, including a stillbirth, his rise to banking leadership, and surviving a kidnap, attributing his sustained journey to divine grace.
