SPRM:

The Mechanics and Impact: The SPRM distinguished itself by enabling states to elevate their governance and development through meticulous reviews of their policies, plans, and programs. Furthermore, it facilitated the sharing of constructive experiences and best practices via inter-state dialogues.

In July 2011, the SPRM Base Document was finalized. An 11-member steering committee, spearheaded by former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Mohammed Lawal Uwais, was inaugurated in November of the same year.

Training and Implementation: By May 2012, 107 consultants—selected from a highly competitive pool of around 4,000 applicants—were trained to assist the Steering Committee during the Technical Review Mission. Justice Uwais and Dr. Saraki, who also served as Vice Chairman of the Steering Committee, personally led two intensive training sessions for these consultants.

By May 2012, 107 consultants—selected from a highly competitive pool of around 4,000 applicants—were trained to assist the Steering Committee during the Technical Review Mission. Justice Uwais and Dr. Saraki, who also served as Vice Chairman of the Steering Committee, personally led two intensive training sessions for these consultants.

The Legacy of SPRM:

The SPRM stands as the NGF’s flagship program and holds the distinction of being the world’s first sub-national peer review mechanism. Its implementation has tangibly improved governance in the states where it has been applied, affirming its value as an indispensable tool for good governance and development at the sub-national level… Read More

Initial Resistance to the NSIA: In 2011, the proposal to create the Nigeria Sovereign Investment Authority (NSIA) met with significant opposition from the majority of Nigeria’s 36 state governors. The NSIA was conceived to manage a Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF) that would enable the federal government to invest in diverse sectors and mitigate economic risks.

Dr. Saraki’s Visionary Leadership: Recognizing the long-term advantages of the SWF, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, then serving as the NGF Chairman, partnered with the Ministry of Finance to adapt the fund in a way that would benefit the states’ development. Utilizing his position and persuasive skills, Dr. Saraki succeeded in swaying his gubernatorial colleagues to endorse the NSIA initiative

The Outcome: A Thriving Fund: Today, the NSIA manages assets exceeding $3.5 billion, serving as a testament to the foresight of leaders like Dr. Saraki who understood the broader economic implications and benefits that such a fund could bring to Nigeria… Read More

The Shift from Top-Down to Coordinated Approach: Prior to 2009, Nigeria’s anti-polio initiatives were primarily top-down, coordinated by the federal government in partnership with international organizations. Upon assuming the NGF Chairmanship, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki transformed this approach. He initiated a more coordinated strategy, uniting multinational donors, the NGF Secretariat, and the governments of the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory in a collective effort to eliminate polio.

Instilling Confidence Among Development Partners: Dr. Saraki’s leadership not only led to more proactive and focused efforts by state governments but also reassured development partners and non-governmental organizations. His initiatives gave them confidence in the direction and focus of state-led anti-polio activities.

Global Partnerships for Local Impact: One of Dr. Saraki’s significant accomplishments was forging partnerships with international bodies such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. These collaborations allowed the NGF to financially support and implement more robust polio and immunization programs across Nigeria.

Landmark Initiatives: The Immunisation Leadership Challenge and the Abuja Commitment under Dr. Saraki’s stewardship, were realized. In February 2009, Bill Gates was instrumental in securing commitments from all 36 state governors to actively engage in polio eradication and enhance immunization programs. These efforts were pivotal in ultimately eradicating polio in Nigeria… Read More

The Crisis of Presidential Absence: In 2010, Nigeria found itself in a political quagmire when President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua traveled to Saudi Arabia for medical treatment without officially transferring power to Vice President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan. This situation created a leadership vacuum, putting the nation at a critical juncture.

As the Chairman of the NGF, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki took a decisive stance, advocating for the ‘Doctrine of Necessity.’ This legal principle served as a basis to install Vice President Jonathan as the Acting President, thereby filling the leadership void.

Resolution and Approval by the National Assembly: On February 9, 2010, the National Assembly approved the ‘Doctrine of Necessity’ resolution. Reflecting on this decision, Governor Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu of Niger State, who served from 2007 to 2015, highlighted the influential role of the NGF. He remarked, “While many accolades are given to the National Assembly, it’s important to recognize that the ‘Doctrine of Necessity’ was initially put forward by the NGF. Our main priority is to uphold the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, not to seek direct acknowledgment. A community that does not adhere to its own rules is bound to face stagnation. Our foremost goal in tackling issues is to enhance the quality of democratic governance… Read More