Chidioka Calls for Active Political Participation, Unveils ‘Mekaria’ Leadership Philosophy

Former Minister of Aviation and ex-Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Osita Chidoka, has called for greater political participation among young Nigerians, warning that political apathy could endanger the country’s future.

Chidoka made the call during the 2nd Distinguished Personality Lecture at Enugu State University of Science and Technology held at the Peter Nduibisi Mbah Multi-purpose Auditorium.

Speaking on rebuilding Nigeria’s political structure, the former minister unveiled “Mekaria,” an Igbo leadership philosophy meaning “to do better,” which he described as a model for transformative leadership in Africa.

He criticised what he termed a “culture of alibi,” where leaders blame past failures and systemic corruption for poor performance, and advocated a data-driven governance system focused on measurable outcomes and accountability.

Chidoka also reflected on his days as a student activist at the University of Nigeria Nsukka, recalling how his participation in protests against the annulment of the June 12 election under former military ruler Ibrahim Babangida nearly led to his expulsion.

“Back then, students’ unionism was about the welfare of students. We were thorns in the flesh of the government,” he said.

According to him, the experience prepared him for leadership roles later in life, including serving as a ministerial aide at 27 and becoming Nigeria’s youngest Corps Marshal at age 35.

Expressing concern over declining civic participation among young people, Chidoka warned that Nigeria’s growing population, projected to hit 400 million by 2050, would worsen challenges such as land scarcity and erosion, particularly in the South-East, if citizens failed to engage actively in governance.

“If you do not participate, your future is bleak,” he warned.

He stressed that participation goes beyond voting and includes demanding accountability from public institutions and leaders.

“Participation is not just voting; it is the daily unglamorous act of insisting that institutions are accountable to you,” he said.

The report was published by ESUT Monitor and credited to Chinwuko Francis.