The beginning of a new and urgent mission to transform my community – My graduation into the professional world of International Development; My doctoral degree at the School of International Development and Cooperation, University of International Business and Economics ( China).
Over the past few years, I have learned to understand and reimagine what development truly means. The core of development is measured by the level of dignity of the less privileged, not by average GDP figures, as it evaluates the relationship between the State, the Market, and society.
My thesis topic was community Engagement in the Public Policy Process in Nigeria. It explored ways of promoting better governance and sound democracy in a developing Nation.
It is a common dilemma in many developing countries that the priority of lifting most people from underdevelopment of economic and social status faces ineffective policy implementation. The top-down approach to policy making and implementation is often poorly received. The disconnection or poor communication between the government and the people is among the causes.
My thesis investigates the role of community engagement in Nigeria’s public policy process, focusing on identifying barriers, assessing effectiveness, proposing strategies for improvement, and emphasizing its critical importance in enhancing governance and addressing socio-economic challenges.
It underscores the necessity of involving local communities in decision-making to ensure that government policies accurately reflect their needs and aspirations.
My study highlights the inadequacies of top-down approaches to policy-making, which often fail to incorporate citizen input. This leads to ineffective implementation and exacerbated poverty levels.
I am returning to Nigeria as a visionary, a bridge-builder, and a catalyst. As an appointee of the current administration, I will bring the lessons from UIBE into my work and community, fostering political education and awareness among citizens to empower them to participate actively in governance.
I return all the Glory to God Almighty for granting me the grace to accomplish this fit of life, to my children for always understanding why Mummy has to be away most times to study, and to my family and my loved ones for your support and for filling the gap for me in looking after my children.