Donald Duke Calls for Rigorous Evaluation of Presidential Aspirants

Donald Duke, the former governor of Cross River State from 1999 to 2007, stated that all presidential aspirants in Nigeria must be thoroughly assessed on their experience, capacity, and plans for governance. Speaking in Abuja, he expressed that Nigeria is in a dire state and cannot afford to test inexperienced leaders.

Duke described the current situation as a disaster but asserted it is repairable with a change in direction. He cited his administration's successful development strategies in agriculture and tourism as examples of how governments can create economic activity by leveraging local advantages.

Duke emphasized that the primary role of government should be to foster conditions for citizen productivity rather than merely administering over them. He advocated for increased investment in education, healthcare, and infrastructure to enhance living standards and productivity.

Duke also defended the Tinapa project initiated during his tenure, suggesting that its challenges should not overshadow its original vision.