Revue internationale des sciences économiques et de gestion

National Constitution: A Foundation for Exemplary Leadership and Development in African Transition Economies

Abstract

Chukwuemeka Nnadi

National constitution: A foundation for exemplary leadership and development in African transition economies. The study sets out to accomplish these objectives to: investigate the causes of the low speed accumulation of human capital; ascertain why Nigerian leaders make disastrous choices resulting in failing health and educational system as well as examine why Military Decree No 24 CFRN (1999) continues to serve as CFRNA in a democratic dispensation. The study used a secondary instrument for data collection from relevant journals, magazines, books and internet. The gap in literature shows that most African States are still chained to Military Decrees as their respective constitutions. The supreme court over rules itself, consequently any sovereign, military or civilian, can overrule itself. The findings are that: the military personnel attained minimal educational level, consequently, its decree No 24 CFRN (1999) perpetuates illiteracy; and the military rule left in its wake, a sad legacy of human rights violations, stunted national growth a corporatism and static state, increased corruption and posing the greatest threat to democracy and national integration. Based on these findings, the recommendations are that: Decree No 24 CFRNA is being stretched beyond its usefulness: This paper advocates for a transition period for the formulation of a progressive democratic constitution and the raising of the educational level to a good first Degree from a recognized university for membership of the National Assembly. The conclusion is that Decree 24 CFRNA (1999) and its – up to at least school certificate level turns retired wealthy military generals and officers as unprepared political leaders and actors politically. The Nigerian culture of illiteracy is the exact symbol of its laws.