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Godfatherism in Africa: Do women and young people stand a chance to lead?

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2 months ago

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There is no surprise that political systems in African countries present a multitude of issues that inhibit young people from actively engaging. One particular issue is this notion of ‘Godfatherism’, a form of political corruption in which an influential member of a party assists another person in the climb to leadership. Most importantly “godfatherists” are the gatekeepers that determine who get nominated and who wins. We should not make the mistake of comparing mentorship with Godfatherism. The two are not the same.

In many African countries, it has become quite impossible for one to ascend to political success without having an influential godfather to “knight” you into politics or someone of political clout to sponsor you into politics.

The concept of Godfatherism is a guiding principle and reference to contemporary politics in Nigeria. This type of political quagmire has held the true virtues of democracy and free and fair elections hostile.

The interesting thing about Godfatherism is that it is often referenced to politics in African countries; however, this is a global phenomenon affecting most countries in the world in various degrees. And it is no surprise that Nigeria’s polity is filled with Grandfather/Godson duos.

Two groups of people are often left out of the equation and conversation when it comes to politics in Nigeria—ambitious young people and women. Nigeria is still very much considered to be a patriarchal society where a woman’s success may sometimes be relegated to that of a man/godfather, her father, or her husband.

I believe we are trying to deliberately change the tides of respecting women who are self-made, gifted, ambitious, and successful on their own accord. In addition, there is a tendency to despise young people for their age, assuming that because they are young they are naïve, ill-prepared, and “not serious.

” You often hear older politicians saying, “Politics is not a child’s play.” However, every politician started from somewhere. A true democracy or that which anchors itself in liberty, equality, and justice unifies every member of society and creates a space where all ideas, talents, and skills are nurtured and welcomed.

Any government that runs its political entity on the foundation of Godfatherism is doing itself a disservice. What ends up happening in a government that has been unable to rid itself of such, is that it often finds itself unable to resolve political, social, economic, and cultural issues over time.

No matter the leader, the problems facing the country never come to a resolution or completion period. You have generations of people facing the same issues carried over by previous generations. The sad part of it all is that every society has several individuals, groups, and civil societies that have the answers and solutions to solving pressing issues facing its nation. However, a whole segment of the population is ignored due to gender and age discrimination.

The only reason why Godfatherism still exists is because there is a need to maintain a certain status quo that only benefits a small number of people in a society in which the vast majority are not able to take part.

The only way to disrupt Godfatherism is for every woman and young person to continue to step up, stand out, and use their voice as an instrument of change. Change does not happen overnight, but I am hoping that there will be one, perhaps two out of the millions of young people and women around the world, who will rise to the highest seat in the land and change the narrative and picture of how a global leader should look.

♦ Yetunde Odugbesan-Omede, Ph.D., is currently the Director of the Office of Community and Civic Engagement and Professor of Global Affairs and Politics at Farmingdale State College (FSC), East Farmingdale, New York. 

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Driving Revenue Growth and Efficiency: The Agenda of Change in African Government Agencies

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4 weeks ago

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March 27, 2025

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In a fast-evolving digital era, African governments lead in adopting innovative approaches for revenue growth and service enhancement. By digitalising services, utilising data analytics, and fostering private-sector collaboration, government agencies in Africa drive efficiency and sustainable development. This article delves into the strategies and skills employed by successful African government bodies to navigate the future of work and boost revenue in the digital era.

How has the digital transformation influenced revenue growth within government agencies across Africa?
Digital transformation could play a pivotal role in driving revenue growth for government agencies across African nations through various means:
1. Boosting efficiency and productivity: Integrating digital technology can streamline processes, automate repetitive tasks, and enhance employee collaboration. This can result in quicker service delivery, cost savings, and heightened productivity, consequently leading to increased revenue for the government.
2. Elevating customer experience: By adopting digital solutions, government agencies can enhance their ability to meet the needs of citizens and businesses. This improved customer experience can foster greater engagement and loyalty and ultimately drive revenue growth.
3. Embracing data-driven decision-making: Digital transformation enables government agencies to efficiently collect and analyse data, empowering them to make informed decisions that enhance operations, service delivery, and revenue generation.
4. Expanding revenue streams: Digital transformation can help government agencies tap into new revenue sources through online services, e-commerce platforms, and digital payment systems. This diversification can broaden revenue channels and lessen dependence on traditional funding avenues.
5. Enhancing transparency and accountability: Digital technologies can bolster transparency and accountability in government affairs, fostering increased trust from citizens and businesses. This trust can lead to heightened compliance rates, improved tax collection, and revenue growth for the government.
Overall, the rise of digital transformation offers African government agencies a chance to significantly modernise operations and boost revenue. By prioritising efficiency, improving customer experience, adopting data-driven solutions, expanding revenue streams, and enforcing transparency and accountability, these agencies can utilise digital technology to pave the way for progress and prosperity.
To drive revenue growth through digital transformation in African government agencies, it is crucial to implement key strategies and foster specific skills vital for successfully navigating the future of work. Equipping the workforce with digital literacy and technical expertise, fostering change management and adaptability, promoting collaboration and effective communication, strategic planning and innovation, maintaining a customer-centric mindset, and utilising data analytics for informed decision-making are essential in propelling revenue growth and ushering in a successful digital transformation journey. By prioritising these strategies and skills, government agencies can effectively embrace digital technologies, enhance service delivery, and drive sustainable growth in the digital age.
By concentrating on these strategies and cultivating the necessary skill sets for the future of work, government agencies in African nations can effectively leverage digital transformation to drive revenue growth, enhance efficiency, improve customer experience, and foster innovation in the public sector.
Examples of successful African government agencies that have implemented effective strategies and skills for digital transformation could be valuable case studies for driving revenue growth in their nations.
Several African government agencies have successfully leveraged digital transformation to drive revenue growth and improve efficiency. Some examples include:
1. Rwanda Revenue Authority (RRA): The RRA has implemented digital initiatives to streamline tax collection processes and improve compliance. One such initiative is implementing an online tax portal that allows taxpayers to file their returns and make payments online, reducing the time and effort required for tax compliance. These digital solutions have helped the RRA increase tax revenues and improve overall efficiency in tax collection.
2. Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA): The KRA has successfully implemented digital initiatives such as iTax, an online tax portal that allows taxpayers to file their tax returns and make payments electronically. The iTax platform has improved tax compliance, reduced tax evasion, and increased government tax revenues. Additionally, the KRA has used data analytics to identify tax evaders and recover lost revenue, further contributing to revenue growth.
3. South African Revenue Service (SARS): SARS has embraced digital technology to enhance tax collection processes and improve taxpayer services. The eFiling platform allows taxpayers to submit their tax returns electronically, while digital initiatives such as e-invoicing and electronic audits have improved compliance and reduced tax fraud. These digital solutions have helped SARS increase tax revenues and improve overall efficiency in tax administration.
4. Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA): The GRA has implemented digital initiatives like the Integrated Tax Application and Preparation System (iTaPS) to streamline tax compliance processes and improve taxpayer services. The iTaPS platform allows taxpayers to file their tax returns online and access tax information digitally, enhancing convenience and efficiency. These digital solutions have contributed to revenue growth for the GRA and improved tax administration in Ghana.
These examples demonstrate how African government agencies have successfully leveraged digital transformation to drive revenue growth, improve efficiency, and enhance taxpayer services. By embracing digital technology and implementing innovative initiatives, these agencies have been able to optimise operations, enhance transparency, and increase revenue collection, ultimately benefiting the public sector and the economy.
Across the African continent, there is a growing recognition of the importance of digital transformation in driving revenue growth and enhancing government services. As such, many government agencies are increasingly adopting digital strategies to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and drive revenue growth. Some of the key trends and agenda of change prevailing across the continent include:
1. Digitalization of Services: African governments are increasingly digitising their services to improve efficiency and enhance access for citizens. This includes initiatives such as online tax portals, e-government platforms, and digital payment systems, which help streamline processes, reduce administrative burdens, and improve service delivery.
2. Data-driven Decision-making: African government agencies are harnessing the power of data analytics to drive revenue growth and improve decision-making. By leveraging data and analytics tools, agencies can better understand taxpayer behaviour, identify revenue leakage, and optimise revenue collection strategies.
3. Collaboration and Partnerships: Governments increasingly collaborate with the private sector, academia, and other stakeholders to drive digital transformation and innovation. Public-private partnerships help foster innovation, leverage expertise, and drive revenue growth through shared resources and knowledge.
4. Skills Development and Capacity Building: There is a growing emphasis on developing digital skills and building capacity within government agencies to drive digital transformation. Training programs, workshops, and partnerships with academic institutions are helping to equip government employees with the necessary skills to leverage digital technologies effectively.
5. Policy and Regulatory Frameworks: African governments are working to create enabling policy and regulatory frameworks to support digital transformation initiatives. This includes regulations to promote data privacy, cybersecurity, and digital innovation and policies to enhance transparency and accountability in government operations.
In conclusion, the ongoing African agenda for change prioritises digital transformation to boost revenue growth and improve service delivery. By embracing technology, enhancing skills, and fostering partnerships, governments are ready to navigate future challenges and propel sustainable development. Through a comprehensive strategy encompassing policy, skills, and data-driven decisions, African governments aim to create a more efficient, transparent, and inclusive public sector that benefits citizens and drives economic growth.

♦ Professor Ojo Emmanuel Ademola is a Nigerian Professor of Cyber Security and Information Technology Management, and holds a Chartered Manager Status, and by extension, Chartered Fellow (CMgr FCMI) by the highly Reputable Royal Chartered Management Institute. 

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Navigating the Digital Age: Lessons for Economic Development and Sustainability in Global South Nations

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2 months ago

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February 18, 2025

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In the dynamic landscape of the Global South Nations, navigating the complexities of the digital age requires a strategic approach that values resilience, wisdom, collaboration, and ethical decision-making. Drawing inspiration from the timeless lesson of the man and the cow, we can glean insights into how nations can drive economic development and sustainability by prioritising long-term goals, embracing digital innovation, fostering collaboration, and making value-based decisions. This piece explores the strategic integration of these principles within Global South Nations, offering a roadmap for navigating challenges and seizing opportunities in the ever-evolving global economy.

Digital transformation can revolutionise businesses’ operations, streamline processes, and enhance productivity. By investing in digital initiatives, companies in the Global South can optimise their operations, deliver superior products and services, and gain a competitive edge in the global marketplace.
Additionally, the digital age presents numerous opportunities for expanding market reach and tapping into new customer segments. With the rise of digital marketing channels, social media platforms, and e-commerce marketplaces, businesses in the Global South can easily access a global audience. Companies can position themselves internationally and attract a diverse customer base by developing effective digital marketing strategies, creating engaging online content, and leveraging social media for customer engagement.
Moreover, the digital age allows businesses in the Global South to drive innovation and foster collaboration through digital ecosystems. Participation in innovation hubs, tech incubators, and collaborative platforms enables companies to tap into a network of like-minded entrepreneurs, startups, and industry experts. This exchange of ideas and co-creation of solutions unlocks new business opportunities and fosters a culture of continuous learning and growth.
In essence, the digital age has transformed the economic development landscape in Global South nations, offering unparalleled opportunities for businesses to innovate, compete, and thrive. By embracing digital technologies, expanding market reach, and fostering collaboration, these companies can create a competitive edge that propels them toward sustained success and prosperity in the digital era.
Furthermore, in today’s global economic climate, the strategic integration of value additions plays a crucial role in driving growth and competitiveness within the Global South. As these nations navigate the challenges and opportunities an ever-changing economic environment presents, focusing on adding value to products, services, and processes becomes instrumental in enhancing their market position and driving sustainable development.
A key aspect of integrating value additions in the Global South is emphasising quality and differentiation. By improving the quality of products and services, adding unique features, and enhancing customer experiences, businesses can distinguish themselves from competitors and attract a loyal customer base. This focus on value creation drives customer satisfaction, increases demand, raises revenues, and enhances brand reputation, positioning these businesses for success in the global marketplace.
Additionally, the strategic integration of value additions enables companies in the Global South to tap into new market opportunities and expand their reach both regionally and internationally. By leveraging value-added propositions such as customization, innovation, and sustainability, businesses can cater to diverse customer needs, penetrate new market segments, and gain a competitive edge in an increasingly interconnected world. This strategic approach opens new avenues for growth and revenue generation while fostering economic diversification and resilience in global economic uncertainties.
Integrating value additions into the market landscape of Global South nations also contributes to overall economic development and sustainability. By incorporating sustainable practices, promoting ethical production methods, and prioritizing social responsibility, businesses can create long-term value for stakeholders, communities, and the environment. This commitment to sustainability helps mitigate environmental impacts and social inequalities, enhancing businesses’ reputation and long-term viability globally.
In summary, the strategic integration of value additions within the market landscape of Global South nations is vital for driving growth, competitiveness, and sustainability in the current global economic climate. By focusing on quality, differentiation, market expansion, and sustainability, businesses in these nations can unlock new opportunities, foster innovation, and position themselves for long-term success in an increasingly competitive and interconnected world.
As Global South nations navigate the complexities of economic development and sustainability, can an integrative approach—valuing essential functionalities—drive progress? Drawing parallels to the tale of a man milking a cow and the consequences of seeking revenge, we are reminded of the potential pitfalls of impulsive reactions in challenging situations. Individuals can create a more sustainable and harmonious path forward by choosing not to retaliate, embracing forgiveness, and prioritising what truly matters. Digital transformation can revolutionise businesses’ operations, streamline processes, and enhance productivity. By investing in digital initiatives, companies in the Global South can optimize their operations, deliver superior products and services, and gain a competitive edge in the global marketplace.
Additionally, the digital age presents numerous opportunities for expanding market reach and tapping into new customer segments. With the rise of digital marketing channels, social media platforms, and e-commerce marketplaces, businesses in the Global South can easily access a global audience. Companies can position themselves internationally and attract a diverse customer base by developing effective digital marketing strategies, creating engaging online content, and leveraging social media for customer engagement.
Moreover, the digital age allows businesses in the Global South to drive innovation and foster collaboration through digital ecosystems. Participation in innovation hubs, tech incubators, and collaborative platforms enables companies to tap into a network of like-minded entrepreneurs, startups, and industry experts. This exchange of ideas and co-creation of solutions unlocks new business opportunities and fosters a culture of continuous learning and growth.
In the synesthetic approach to driving economic development and sustainability in Global South Nations, the interplay of strategic integral functionalities is akin to the dynamics of a man milking a cow. When the man is kicked by the cow, the impulse for revenge may arise, tempting him to retaliate. However, retaliating could lead to unforeseen consequences, such as slipping and losing the bucket of milk he had painstakingly collected.
The allegory mirrors the concept that seeking revenge in any situation often results in more harm than good. Just as retaliating against the cow would have led to the loss of the milk, retaliatory actions in economic or social contexts can jeopardize hard-earned progress and achievements. Rather than succumbing to impulses of revenge, embracing wisdom, forgiveness, and resilience is crucial for moving forward and preserving valuable resources.
Similarly, in the pursuit of economic development and sustainability, Global South Nations face challenges and obstacles that may incite reactions of retaliation. Just as the cow represents adversities or provocations in this context, there will always be forces that seek to hinder progress and induce negative responses. However, the true essence of strategic integral functionalities lies in maintaining focus on overarching goals and values, despite external disruptions.
In essence, the synesthetic approach emphasizes the futility of revenge, highlighting its role as a zero-sum game that ultimately yields no winners. Instead, by embodying wisdom, resilience, and a forward-looking mindset, individuals and nations can safeguard their hard-earned achievements and navigate challenges with grace. Trusting in the equilibrium of life and channeling efforts towards meaningful pursuits fosters a sustainable path towards economic prosperity and societal well-being in the Global South Nations.
Could you permit me to ask? Can we translate the insights gleaned from this tale into robustly crafted lessons tailored for Global South nations, aligning with the demands of the digital age?
Lesson 1: Strategic Resilience in the Digital Age
– In the fast-paced digital age, Global South Nations must cultivate strategic resilience by prioritizing long-term goals over short-term retaliations against setbacks or provocations. Just as the man in the allegory chose to walk away from the cow’s kick to protect his milk, nations should focus on preserving their valuable resources and investments in the face of challenges.
– Implement crisis management strategies that emphasize adaptability, flexibility, and forward-thinking to navigate digital disruptions effectively and maintain economic stability and sustainability.
Lesson 2: Embracing Digital Wisdom
– Global South Nations can enhance their economic development by embracing digital wisdom, which entails making informed decisions based on data, trends, and analysis rather than reactionary impulses. Just as reacting impulsively to the cow’s kick led to losses for the man, knee-jerk responses to market fluctuations or technological advancements can jeopardize progress.
– Invest in digital literacy and technological innovation to leverage the power of digital tools and platforms for economic growth, efficiency, and competitiveness in the global market landscape.
Lesson 3: Collaborative Leadership and Innovation
– Foster a culture of collaborative leadership and innovation within Global South Nations to drive sustainable economic development in the digital age. Just as the man could have benefited from seeking assistance or alternative strategies instead of retaliating against the cow, nations should prioritize cooperation, knowledge-sharing, and collective problem-solving.
– Promote cross-sector partnerships, entrepreneurship, and research and development initiatives to harness the collective intelligence and creativity of diverse stakeholders in driving economic growth and resilience in the digital era.
Lesson 4: Value-Based Decision-Making
– Encourage value-based decision-making practices that prioritise sustainability, inclusivity, and ethical considerations in the strategic planning and implementation processes of Global South Nations. Just as revenge-driven actions can lead to unforeseen consequences and losses, decisions made without ethics or long-term vision can undermine progress and harm communities.
– Embrace principles of corporate social responsibility, environmental stewardship, and social equity to build a resilient and sustainable economy that benefits all stakeholders, not just in the present but for future generations in the digital age and beyond.
In conclusion, as Global South Nations stand at the threshold of the digital age, the lessons derived from the allegory of the man and the cow serve as a beacon of guidance for driving economic development and sustainability. By cultivating strategic resilience, embracing digital wisdom, fostering collaborative leadership and innovation, and prioritising value-based decision-making, nations can chart a course towards a prosperous and equitable future. In a world where revenge leads to losses and wisdom leads to growth, let us heed the call to forge a path of progress that transcends immediate gains and paves the way for lasting success in the global marketplace. Embracing these principles, Global South Nations can navigate the challenges of the digital age with confidence and purpose, unlocking their economies’ full potential and enriching their citizens’ lives for generations to come.

♦ Professor Ojo Emmanuel Ademola is a Nigerian Professor of Cyber Security and Information Technology Management, and holds a Chartered Manager Status, and by extension, Chartered Fellow (CMgr FCMI) by the highly Reputable Royal Chartered Management Institute. 

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Biafra: A Scarred Past, A Tense Present

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2 months ago

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February 18, 2025

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“For those who casually talk of war or fantasize about forcing the Igbo to flee again, it’s crucial to understand one thing: the dynamics of conflict have changed.”  —Dr. Emeaba Emeaba

Naïveté is a condition of trusting too easily, of believing the world to be simple and fair, of taking things at face value. This was the state of the Igbo people in Nigeria before the tragedy of Biafra. The Igbo were industrious traders and sojourners who engaged with the world earnestly, often assuming others shared their sincerity. But their aggressive individualism and entrepreneurial spirit irritated many, planting seeds of resentment in a fragile national fabric.

The tipping point came with a failed coup in 1966. The coup’s leaders were largely of Igbo extraction, and some prominent Hausa-Fulani politicians were killed. When the coup was suppressed by the then-Igbo army commander, Major General Aguiyi Ironsi, who assumed national leadership, suspicion turned to hostility. It didn’t matter that the Igbo were not collectively complicit; perceptions of ethnic dominance fueled violent reprisals. Across Nigeria, Igbo civilians—men, women, and children—were slaughtered, maimed, and driven from their homes. Their crime? Sharing the same ethnicity as some of the coup plotters.

Faced with relentless persecution, the Igbo fled to Eastern Nigeria, seeking refuge under the protection of their military governor, Lt. Col. Odumegwu Ojukwu. The clamor for safety and dignity led to a call for secession, birthing the short-lived Republic of Biafra. However, the Nigerian government responded with war, branding the secession as rebellion. What followed was a campaign of destruction: mass killings, starvation as a weapon of war, and the obliteration of civilian populations under the pretense of maintaining national unity.
By the war’s end in 1970, millions of lives had been lost. The Igbo were stripped of their properties, political positions, and dignity. Biafra’s failure was not due to a lack of resolve but to an underestimation of the lengths to which the Nigerian state and its foreign backers would go. The Igbo assumed they were fighting soldiers; they did not anticipate a war on civilians, where tanks and air raids rained terror upon villages.

Since then, the Igbo have returned to Nigeria, grinding their teeth but channeling their energies into rebuilding their lives through commerce and ingenuity. Yet, the scars of Biafra linger. The Igbo homeland remains heavily policed and militarized, with even minor disturbances treated as national security threats. Meanwhile, some factions in Nigeria invoke the war in their rhetoric, threatening violence and deriding the Igbo as occupying an area that is a “tiny dot” in Nigeria These are not merely words—they are provocations that ignore the lessons of history.
For those who casually talk of war or fantasize about forcing the Igbo to flee again, it’s crucial to understand one thing: the dynamics of conflict have changed. The Igbo have learned from Biafra. They are no longer confined to a “dot” but are everywhere, contributing to Nigeria’s economy and building homes far from their ancestral lands. They will not retreat to be cornered and crushed again.

And war itself has evolved. It is no longer fought with soldiers who can be dispatched to distant territories while leaders issue commands from comfortable enclaves. Drones and modern weaponry have democratized destruction. In today’s world, no region can claim immunity from the fires they set elsewhere—ask Russia, in their flirtations with Ukraine.
So, let this be a warning: watch your words and actions. The fires of Biafra burned too hot, and the ashes are still smoldering. Those who continue to stoke these embers risk starting an inferno that no one—not even the instigators—will be able to extinguish.
Let us learn from the past and choose dialogue, empathy, and unity over divisiveness. Nigeria cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of its history.
_______

♦Publisher of the Drum Magazine, Dr. Emeaba Emeaba is an author and entrepreneur based in Nigeria and the United States 

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