For decades, Nigerian citizens have been denied the opportunity to contribute to shaping the laws and policies they are governed by. The notion that political engagement is the preserve of the elite has eroded public trust in democratic structures. In order for this trust to be restored, this author argues, the innate power of civic society to shape the political destiny of the nation needs to be re-emphasized.

Across Africa, governments are looking to megacities to solve urban problems. But African cities need to focus less on skyscrapers and more on city halls.