Matters Arising: On Nigeria’s development and critical national infrastructure

Dr. Lanre Towry-Coker, FRIBA, FNIA, MA Law (UL), Ph.D, a former commissioner for housing in Lagos State, with a doctorate from Lagos State University, is founder of Towry-Coker Associates since 1976, and a professional architect with a postgraduate qualification in Architecture from the University of North East London. He had his professional training at the world famous Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and is an Associate of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators in the United Kingdom (ACI.Arb.); a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (FNIA), he was elected Fellow of The Royal Institute of British Architects, (founded 1834), in November 2016, and is one of only forty architects worldwide to be so honoured. He is also the author of the book, “Housing Policy And The Dynamics Of Housing Delivery In Nigeria: Lagos State As Case Study” published by Makeway Publishers, and available on Amazon and also at The Royal Institute of British Architects, Portland Place. London.

His consortium, Towry-Coker Associates/Neue Heimat Abuja Consortium, was also one of the master planners of the Federal Capital Abuja, along with Japanese architect Kenzo Tange and Brazilian architect Oscar Neimeyer.

National critical infrastructure plays a crucial role in the development, security, and stability of a country. The term, national critical infrastructure, encompasses essential systems and assets that are vital to the country’s functionality and well-being. I shine light in this instalment of Matters Arising on some key points regarding the role of national critical infrastructure in Nigeria, with the hope that those responsible for official policy on these matters will take notice and act for the good of the country.

Energy Infrastructure: Nigeria heavily relies on its energy infrastructure, including oil and gas production, electricity generation, and distribution. These resources are the backbone of the country’s economy, as they drive industrial and commercial activities. They are therefore critical for the development, security and stability of the country and policy officials must attend to them conscious of their criticality to Nigeria as a sovereign state. 

Transportation Infrastructure: The transport sector, which includes roads, railways, ports, and airports, is vital for the movement of people and goods within Nigeria. Efficient transportation infrastructure is essential for economic growth and development.

Telecommunications and Information Technology: The telecommunications and IT infrastructure facilitates communication, e-governance, and access to information. It supports business, education, and government functions, playing a key role in Nigeria’s digital transformation.

Water and Sanitation: Ensuring access to clean water and sanitation services is essential for public health and quality of life. Adequate water supply and sanitation infrastructure are critical for preventing waterborne diseases and promoting well-being.

Healthcare Infrastructure: Hospitals, clinics, and medical facilities are vital components of the healthcare system. An efficient healthcare infrastructure is essential for providing medical services, responding to health crises, and improving the overall health of the population.

Security Infrastructure: Nigeria faces various security challenges, and the security infrastructure, including the police, military, and intelligence agencies, is responsible for maintaining law and order, protecting the nation from threats, and ensuring national security.

Financial Infrastructure: A robust financial system, including banks, stock exchanges, and payment networks, supports economic activities, investment, and trade. It also plays a role in poverty reduction and wealth creation.

Agricultural Infrastructure: Agriculture is a significant part of Nigeria’s economy. Infrastructure such as irrigation systems, transportation networks for moving agricultural products, and storage facilities are essential for food security and economic growth.

Education Infrastructure: Schools, universities, and educational institutions form the backbone of human capital development. A strong education infrastructure is crucial for equipping the population with the skills needed for the workforce and societal advancement.

Environmental & Disaster Management Infrastructure: Given Nigeria’s vulnerability to various natural and environmental risks, infrastructure for disaster management, early warning systems, and environmental protection is critical.

Government and Administrative Infrastructure: Efficient government institutions and administrative systems are essential for good governance, public service delivery, and policy implementation.

Cultural Infrastructure and other important components of daily life:

It’s notable that apart from basic educational activities, the youth population which is the largest percentage of the population has little or nothing to distract or develop its energies.

Unlike in developed nations where theatres, museums, zoos, art galleries and historic buildings are readily available, Nigeria lacks any kind of public space for youths to attend these types of institutions. A ‘refocus’ by both the private sector and public sector would go a long way toward filling the huge gaps. 

Protecting and maintaining these critical infrastructure components is vital for Nigeria’s sustainable development, economic growth, and national security. 

Ensuring their resilience against various threats, such as cyberattacks, natural disasters, and terrorism, is a significant challenge for the government and relevant stakeholders.