In an exclusive interview, former Minister of Education and Health, Prof. Ihechukwu Madubuike, shared insights into various issues affecting Nigeria, spanning education, governance, and insecurity. The distinguished professor compared the national service in the 1970s and 1980s to the present day, reflecting on the challenges and progress made.
Education Reforms in the 1980s: Prof. Madubuike highlighted the significant changes implemented during his tenure as Minister of Education in the 1980s. He emphasized the need for a paradigm shift, introducing mission-oriented universities, revitalizing the National Universities Commission, and promoting equity in education. The professor expressed a commitment to patriotism and nation-building through educational reforms.
Challenges in the Education Sector: The interview delved into the current state of the education sector, with Prof. Madubuike addressing concerns about the quality of education, obsolete curricula, and the impact of the digital revolution. He emphasized the importance of addressing the needs of the youth, creating job opportunities, and aligning education with skills acquisition.
Government’s Role in Insecurity: Prof. Madubuike spoke on the issue of insecurity, attributing it to a lack of good governance at all levels. He stressed the importance of understanding the needs of the youth, creating job opportunities, and reducing ostentatious lifestyles of political leaders.
Thoughts on Political Appointments: The former Minister expressed his disapproval of the extensive list of political appointees in President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet, advocating for lean government and belt-tightening measures, especially in a non-productive economy.
Brain Drain in the Medical Field: Addressing the exodus of medical personnel from Nigeria, Prof. Madubuike acknowledged the shortage of medical professionals and emphasized the need for clear policies. He suggested that if the government produced enough medical personnel, paid them well, and allowed them freedom of practice, it could mitigate the issue.
Peace in South-East Project: Commenting on the recent initiative by Southeast governors to establish the ‘Peace in South-East Project,’ Prof. Madubuike expressed skepticism about its effectiveness, citing the lack of joint implementation of common projects by the governors.
Nnamdi Kanu’s Release: The former Minister asserted that Nnamdi Kanu deserves his freedom, drawing parallels to Nelson Mandela’s release in South Africa. He critiqued the Supreme Court judgment on Kanu’s matter, highlighting the trust deficit in the Nigerian justice system.
Conclusion: Prof. Ihechukwu Madubuike’s insightful interview touched on critical issues affecting Nigeria, offering perspectives on education, governance, insecurity, and political dynamics. The interview provides a nuanced view of the country’s challenges and potential solutions from a seasoned academic and former government official.