On the 22nd of May 2024, Temidayo Musa, Head of Operation at Civic Hive, was the keynote speaker at the Annual Ife Public Administration Summit (AIPAS). As part of our organization’s goal to support and motivate youth towards civic engagement we were excited to contribute to this conversation. The theme of the Summit was “From Policy to Prosperity: Public administration Strategies for Harnessing Economy Growth in Nigeria”.
The journey began on a rainy morning in Lagos and as we navigated the route from Lagos to Ibadan we were marveled at the ease of traveling by road on the now finished Lagos-Ibadan expressway. As we moved through the Ibadan – Ife expressway, we began to regret our praises of good roads in Nigeria because of the potholes on the road. ‘This has been the state of this road since my Undergraduate days’ said Temidayo Musa.
On getting to Ile-Ife, Obafemi Awolowo University Campus greeted us with its iconic architecture and expansive greenery. The university is Nigeria’s most beautiful, respected institution, and immediately we became radiated with an atmosphere of intellectual vigour and historical significance.
The Summit was held in one of the university’s lecture theatres, a spacious hall filled with eager students, professors, representatives from various Institutions and Political leaders, gathered, by a shared interest on how effective policies could lead to prosperity. The air buzzed with anticipation as the session began.
A starting point for the keynote address by Temidayo Musa was asking representatives and presidents of association present at the event on how they evaluate previous administration finances and policies before starting theirs. With the majority answer being negative, he further asked what they think drives good policies amidst Data, Evidence and Inclusion of the people.
Temidayo’s address focused on the critical role of good governance and policy-making in shaping prosperous societies. Using case study of policies such as the Closure of Nigerian border and Redesigning of Naira notes during the Buhari’s administration as well as Subsidy removal and the Student loan Act by the current administration, he broke down the phases and effects of these policies, as well as the impact these policies directly had on citizens.
Another impactful moment was discussing Nigeria’s own potential and how it is important for young people to be actively involved in every way possible. With emphasis on the impact and works of civic tech organizations like Civic Hive and how they have continuously pushed for youth involvement in governance. The students were particularly inspired to do more within their space and take actions about the future of the country.
As the Summit drew to a close, we mingled with attendees and excos of the event while sharing experiences and building connections. Leaving OAU, we felt a deep sense of fulfillment. The visit had not only been an opportunity to share knowledge but also a powerful exchange of ideas and aspirations.
The journey back was a time for reflection. Our trip to OAU reinforced the belief that effective policy-making, driven by passionate and informed individuals, can indeed lead to prosperity. The experience was a poignant reminder of the potential that lies within Nigeria’s youth and the critical role they play in shaping a brighter future.