Nigeria has had several heads of state, but the first executive president of Nigeria was Shehu Shagari. He assumed office on October 1, 1979, following the end of military rule and the return to civilian governance. His presidency marked the beginning of the Second Nigerian Republic under the 1979 Constitution, which officially combined the offices of the head of state and head of government into the presidential system Nigeria still follows today.
Who Was Shehu Shagari?
Shehu Usman Aliyu Shagari was born on February 25, 1925, in Shagari, Sokoto State. Before becoming president, he had an extensive political career, serving in different ministerial positions. His presidency was characterized by efforts to boost economic development, promote democracy, and expand infrastructure.
When Did Nigeria Adopt the Executive Presidential System?
Nigeria officially adopted the executive presidential system in 1979, moving away from the previous parliamentary system used during the First Republic (1963-1966). Under the new constitution, the president became both head of state and head of government, similar to the American presidential model.
Key Features of the 1979 Constitution:
- Presidential System: Unlike the First Republic, where the prime minister was the head of government, the 1979 constitution merged the roles into one.
- Separation of Powers: The system introduced clear separation between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
- Four-Year Tenure: The president was elected for a four-year term and could only serve a maximum of two terms.
Shagari’s Election in 1979
Shehu Shagari won the 1979 presidential election under the banner of the National Party of Nigeria (NPN). His victory was historic, as he became the first civilian leader after over a decade of military rule. His main opponent in the election was Obafemi Awolowo of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN).
Transition from Military to Civilian Rule
Before Shagari’s presidency, Nigeria was governed by General Olusegun Obasanjo, who led a military government from 1976 to 1979. Obasanjo peacefully handed over power to Shagari, marking a significant moment in Nigeria’s history.
Shehu Shagari’s Presidency (1979-1983)
Shagari’s administration focused on economic development, infrastructure expansion, and education. Some of his notable policies included:
1. The Green Revolution
His government launched the Green Revolution program, aimed at boosting agricultural production by distributing seeds, fertilizers, and farming equipment to Nigerian farmers.
2. Industrial and Infrastructure Development
- Construction of major roads and bridges across Nigeria.
- Establishment of industries to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on oil.
- Completion of the Kaduna Refinery and Ajaokuta Steel Mill.
3. Education Expansion
- Increased federal funding for primary, secondary, and tertiary education.
- Establishment of more universities and polytechnics to support higher education.
The 1983 Coup: End of the Second Republic
Despite his achievements, Shagari’s presidency was cut short by a military coup on December 31, 1983. The coup was led by Major General Muhammadu Buhari, citing corruption, economic mismanagement, and security concerns. This ended the Second Republic, and Nigeria returned to military rule until 1999.
Legacy of Shehu Shagari
Shehu Shagari’s presidency is remembered for being the first civilian-led government under Nigeria’s current presidential system. Though his tenure was short-lived, it paved the way for future democratic transitions in Nigeria.
Key Takeaways:
- First executive president of Nigeria: Shehu Shagari.
- Year he assumed office: October 1, 1979.
- End of presidency: Overthrown in a coup on December 31, 1983.
- System of government: Presidential system introduced by the 1979 Constitution.
- Political party: National Party of Nigeria (NPN).
Mass Retrenchment and Its Impact During Shagari’s Presidency
Mass retrenchment, the large-scale layoff of employees, was a notable challenge during Shagari’s presidency. This had profound effects on individuals, communities, and the economy.
Individual and Family Effects
- Financial hardship: Retrenchment led to poverty as individuals lost their primary source of income. Many people experienced a decline in their living standards.
- Psychological distress: Retrenched workers faced stress, frustration, and in some cases, premature death.
- Family strain: The loss of jobs by both parents led to increased child labor and pressure on families.
- Reduced access to resources: Many job placement agencies required fees, limiting access to employment information for those who needed it most.
Community and Social Effects
- Increased social problems: The mass retrenchment led to a rise in social vices and crimes.
- Decline in community involvement: Many laid-off workers stopped participating in community development programs.
- Manpower drainage: Skilled workers emigrated to other countries, leading to a loss of national talent.
Economic Effects
- Reduced local employment: Mass layoffs caused sustained unemployment in several regions.
- Business decline: Many businesses suffered from reduced consumer spending power.
- Economic recession: Retrenchment contributed to rising unemployment rates, leading to a weakened economy.
- Decline in employee morale and productivity: Workers who remained employed experienced low morale, increased job insecurity, and heavier workloads.
- Growth in entrepreneurship: Some retrenched individuals turned to entrepreneurship as an alternative means of survival.
- Impact on spending: The retrenchment of employees had a direct negative impact on consumer spending and overall economic stability.
Work Ethic and Commitment
- Lack of commitment: The fear of layoffs led to reduced job satisfaction and decreased work ethics among employees.
Conclusion
Shehu Shagari was Nigeria’s first executive president, leading the country through its transition from military rule to democracy. Though his government faced economic challenges, including mass retrenchment, it set the foundation for future democratic governance in Nigeria.
Today, his leadership remains a crucial part of Nigeria’s political history.