Theme: Exemplary Governance through Leadership”

Date: February 19, 2007

Venue: :ECOWAS Secretariat, Abuja, Nigeria

Keynote Speakers:

• Prof. Chukwuma Soludo: Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)
• Mallam Nasir El-Rufai: Minister of the Federal Capital Territory
• Prof. Mrs. Dora Akunyili: Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC)

Goals:

• Highlight contributions of successful professionals to nation-building.
• Identify areas for economic growth.
• recommend legal and judicial reforms to enhance governance.
• Advocate for the rule of law as a fundamental principle for public participation and good governance.

Event Overview:

On February 19, 2007, the Murtala Muhammed Foundation (MMF) convened a diverse group of leaders and experts recognized for their excellence in governance and business. Held at the ECOWAS Secretariat in Abuja, Nigeria, the event aimed to spotlight visionary leadership that drives improvements in governance across both the public and private sectors. The lecture, themed “Exemplary Governance through Leadership,” focused on the values and visions of successful professionals and their contributions to national development.

Key Discussions:

1. Leadership and Governance:

   The speakers emphasized the importance of visionary leadership in transforming governance. 

   Prof. Chukwuma Soludo highlighted economic policies and financial reforms necessary for growth.

   Mallam Nasir El-Rufai discussed urban development and governance strategies in the Federal Capital Territory.

   Prof. Mrs. Dora Akunyili shared insights on regulatory reforms and the impact of NAFDAC’s work on public health and safety.

2. Economic Growth and Development:

   Discussions centered around new agendas for national development.

   Recommendations included leveraging economic reforms to fast-track growth and development.

   Legal and judicial reforms were deemed critical for empowerment and poverty reduction.

3. Rule of Law:

   – The speakers stressed that the rule of law must be upheld to stimulate public participation in governance.

   – Experts called for the mainstreaming of the rule of law as a way of life in Nigeria, highlighting its importance in ensuring transparency and accountability.

Outcomes:

– The lecture made significant contributions to the advocacy for policy reforms aimed at upholding the rule of law in Nigeria.

– Recommendations were made to improve transformative leadership in the country, focusing on qualities demonstrated by the late General Murtala Muhammed.

– The need for leaders in both the public and private sectors to work towards improving the quality of life for citizens was emphasized.

– It was noted that poor leadership has hindered development in Africa, including Nigeria, despite the continent’s abundant human and natural resources.

Conclusion:

The 2007 Murtala Muhammed Annual Memorial Lecture highlighted the crucial role of exemplary governance through effective leadership. By drawing on the legacies of leaders like General Murtala Muhammed, the event underscored the need for integrity, vision, and commitment to public service in driving national development and improving governance in Nigeria.