By Muhammad Mamman
Former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bolaji Akinyemi, has questioned the effectiveness of imported democratic models in Nigeria, warning that excessive partisan politics is eroding national focus and weakening governance.
Speaking during a public policy dialogue, Akinyemi argued that Nigeria’s democracy has largely been shaped by foreign templates that do not sufficiently reflect the country’s unique history, social structure and developmental needs. He said this disconnect has contributed to a political culture overly fixated on elections and party rivalries, rather than long-term national planning.
According to the former minister, politics in Nigeria has become an end in itself, with political actors prioritising personal and party interests above collective progress. He stressed that this trend has distracted leaders from addressing core challenges such as economic development, security and institutional reform.
Akinyemi called for a fundamental rethink of the country’s democratic practice, urging policymakers to develop governance frameworks rooted in local realities. He maintained that democracy should be adapted to serve national goals, not merely copied from Western systems.
He also warned that the growing dominance of partisan politics is weakening state capacity, as frequent political battles leave little room for strategic thinking or continuity in public policy.
“To move forward, Nigeria must place nation-building above party politics,” he said, adding that leadership should be driven by competence, vision and service rather than electoral calculations.
The elder statesman urged political leaders, civil society and citizens alike to refocus on building strong institutions and a shared national purpose, insisting that sustainable development can only be achieved when governance rises above narrow political interests.
