Where will future economic growth come from?, certainly not from cows.Even 'flows of oil will one day run out', now think of reliance on cows. Photo: Uche Okeke
I have been studying various arguements about the proposed cattle colony policy in Nigeria. The truth is that this policy has simply revealed how out of touch the system seems to have become in a rapidly changing enviroment. The system is strictly opposed to modernity and global best practices. It has also revealed that the policy is purely individualistic idea exploiting a backdoor strategy not minding the implications to the society. It has also revealed the wide division in the society and never ending praise singing that has defined our politics, even when the society is sinking.
It has simply supported various arguements that the government seems to have no 'direction, purpose or discipline', rather what I describe as Another Progressive Crisis.,on already devastated nation. The government has simply demonstrated lack of knowledge of today's 'global economy creating opportunities for billions of people'. A good government should place the security and freedom of its citizens above other interests.
In the 21st century technology is proven to be one of the main drivers of growth not cow. It's worst when there is no documented evidence about how the cow economy has contributed to improving the welfare of ordinary people in Nigeria. I don't know about the export value, or how much it has contributed to the nation's purse, however, i'm convinced that this is not meant to be a major policy objective in an ethnic diverse society like Nigeria given the implications especially when it's proved beyound reasonable doubt that the borders with the herdsmen is very bloody.
Technology should serve as role model not cows. Our government should invest in our collapsed education system, 247-electricity and internet/broadband connection, that drives today's jobs not cow colony with it's continued devastation. Our government should invest in research and innovation, we don't even have refineries in all the states, so why must cow colony be a government priority?.
Individual states or regions with specialisation in cow business should harness such opportunity embracing markets and innovation approach for growth. Other states should also be supported to grow their own specialisations, be more innovative and productive not imposing cow colony on them or forcing them to learn about cow business, except if there is more to this.
According to World Economic Forum ; ''Technology will keep boosting growth. Technology reduces cost compared with all other industries, often all that is required to successfully become part of the global economy is an internet connection and a good idea'',[Where will future Economic Growth come from?; Kristel Van der Elst, 18 January, 2015, WEF]. not imposing cattle colonies on people with different values and cultures.
This policy has already added to the reputational damage ravaging the polity following the level of public discontent. In a rapidly changing world, especially in an ethnic diverse society political leaders need to demonstrate awareness of global best practices, to create a conducive society that is trusting , peaceful and citizens rights respected.
These are changing times, our leadership , and values, also needs to change. Voters should vote wisely during the next elections. Professor Ben Nwabueze has described the colony policy as ''a deadly trap'', we need not ignore it.
Global best practices may be challenging to implement but its one sure way to ensure progress in today's world. Read More: http://www.theleadprojectfoundation.com/2018/01/now-is-time-to-encourage-digital-start.html
President Museveni says he loves President Trump even if he calls Africa 'Shitholes'. He concluded that President Trump was ''the best'' US President and that he was frank with Africans.(BBC Africa Highlights ; 23 January 2018).
Meanwhile President Museveni has ammended his country's constitution to enable him remain a life President, despite widespread opposition and threatens to reintroduce executions in his country. That's just the whole point.
Uche Okeke is a Social Entrepreneur.
Our government should invest in our collapsed education system, 247-electricity and internet/broadband connection, that drives today's jobs not cow colony with it's continued devastation. Our government should invest in research and innovation, we don't even have refineries in all the states, so why must cow colony be a government priority?.
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