Nigeria's Problems Rooted in Weak Institutions, Not Lack of Diagnosis: Alaibe

Nigeria's enduring national challenges are rooted not in a failure to understand its problems, but in the systemic weakening of its democratic institutions, according to former Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Managing Director, Chief Ndutimi Alaibe. He asserted that institutions designed to hold power accountable have been deliberately undermined, transforming justice into a privilege rather than an inalienable right for many citizens.

Alaibe highlighted tribalism as one of Nigeria's most significant obstacles. He warned that until this issue is effectively addressed, the nation will continue to face recurring national challenges. According to him, tribalism has transcended individual prejudice to become a systemic problem, deeply embedded within the nation's bloodstream and eroding the very fabric of society.

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Tribalism has become less an individual prejudice than a systemic condition, coursing through our national bloodstream and eating away at the very fabric of our society. It should trouble us deeply if members of the National Association of Seadogs have, at times, also fallen short of these enduring ideals.

Speaking at the 28th Prof. Wole Soyinka Lecture Series, Alaibe paid tribute to the National Association of Seadogs (NAS) for its historical stance against colonialism, partisanship, and ethnic chauvinism. He lamented the erosion of values such as nationalism, honesty, and selflessness, noting that even members of NAS have sometimes fallen short of these ideals.

Alaibe stressed that reclaiming the Nigerian state requires citizens to hold themselves accountable by consistently applying their professed principles, regardless of tribal affiliation, political leaning, or the status of those in authority. He emphasized that accountability is sustained not just by laws, but by the courage of individuals who demand equal application of these laws to both the powerful and the powerless. Civil courage, he added, has not always matched Nigeria's defining historical moments.

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Where institutions are weak, hope gives way to cynicism; where accountability is upheld, even lim