Ahead of the local government polls coming up in Niger state later this year, Zakari Muhammad Kuchi, who is running for chairman of Lavun local government area, tells AWAAL GATA why he is in the race.
Given your relative young age, what is the idea behind your foray in politics?
Although things have been changing rapidly in recent years, there has been a notion in Nigeria that leadership or politics should not be the forte of the young. I don’t agree with the notion. Young people should consider going into politics for several compelling reasons. Firstly, politics affects their lives directly: the decisions made by politicians have a significant impact on their future, education, career, and overall well-being. By getting involved in politics, young people can have a say in shaping their own destiny.
Additionally, young people bring fresh perspectives and ideas: their unique experiences, energy, and idealism can inject new life into the political process. By participating in politics, young people can help create positive change and address the issues that matter most to them. I am currently bursting with ideas, tangible ideas that shall make my community greater.
Moreover, politics needs young people’s engagement: low voter turnout and disengagement from the political process can have serious consequences for democracy. By getting involved, young people can help revitalise democracy and ensure that their voices are heard.
Not only in Niger state but across Nigeria, young people should begin to actively participate in politics, since it is through politics that they can have a say about governmental decisions and policies that affect their lives. They can start by volunteering for political campaigns. This can provide valuable experience and skills, as well as a chance to make a difference. Overall, young people have the power to shape their own futures and create positive change through politics. By getting involved, they can help build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
Why do you want to be the chairman of Lavun LGA?
Being the chairman of Lavun can be a highly rewarding experience, offering a unique opportunity to make a positive impact on your community. As the closest tier of government to the people, an LGA chairman plays a vital role in addressing grassroots issues and promoting local development. As LGA chair, one gets the opportunity of community service. One would have the chance to improve the lives of people in your local government area, creating a lasting legacy. One would also be involved in making key decisions that shape the community’s future.
What is your vision for Lavun LGA?
With the local government autonomy now in Nigeria’s political administrative system, people with capacity are needed for the efficacy of the administration across board. My education, the type of political mentorship I have had, and my involvement in the affairs of the grassroots, make me the perfect person to lead Lavun LGA to the height of prosperity it deserves.
My thoroughly researched vision will drive meaningful growth and development. If I am given the mandate, I will focus on improving infrastructure and basic amenities. I will focus on upgrading roads, healthcare facilities, schools, and water supply systems to enhance the quality of the people.
I will engage in economic empowerment by implementing initiatives that promote entrepreneurship, job-creation, and skill development, especially among youths and vulnerable groups. I would ensure effective governance and accountability by fostering transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in decision-making processes to ensure that the needs and concerns of all stakeholders are addressed.
I would take a look at environmental sustainability by developing and implementing strategies for waste management, conservation of natural resources, and mitigation of climate change impacts. I would not also treat social welfare with a kid’s glove. I would prioritise programmes that support education, healthcare, and social welfare, particularly for disadvantaged populations.
With me as the chairman of Lavun LGA, security and conflict resolution will be strategically paramount. We will devise effective ways of collaborating with security agencies and community leaders to maintain peace, resolve conflicts, and ensure public safety. Youth development and engagement will also be a top priority.
We will readily have novel and effective opportunities for youth participation in governance, skills training, and economic empowerment to harness their potential and foster a sense of belonging. We would also not leave cultural preservation and promotion as they are capable of driving tourism.
We will safeguard and celebrate the local culture, traditions, and heritage to promote community identity and tourism. Kutigi, the headquarters of Lavun LGA, is renowned for the Gani festival. We will rebrand it and put it on the global map of important tourism. We will rebrand it in a way that it will attract tourists from across the world.
As you go into the poll, what edge do you think you have over your opponents?
I am a grassroots man. I live among the people. I know and feel their pains. This alone, coupled with my qualifications and political sagacity, would inspire them to give me the mandate.