Donald Duke

Former Governor
Cross River State, Nigeria
Focus Area(s)
Civil Service
Critical Tasks
Depoliticization
Training
Interviewers
Itumeleng Makgetla
Country of Reform
Nigeria
Town/City
Cross River State
Place (Building/Street)
Calabar
Country
Nigeria
Date of Interview
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Abstract
Former Cross River State Governor Donald Duke recounts his experiences developing tourism in the Nigerian state.  He explains how investing in education and health care and improving service delivery, agriculture and infrastructure were key components in this process.  Duke goes into detail about how appointing the right people was essential to the task, as well as changing the inherent culture in the civil service left over from years of military rule, and the mediation of conflicts of interest that became apparent.  Duke talks about the need for specific training of civil service staff, as well as the compromises made to accommodate opposition party members.  He explains how required funds were secured from banks and funding agencies, and he emphasizes the need for thorough and accurate data analysis of before any reforms were to be implemented.  Duke recounts how he used digital mapping of the state to influence his investment in infrastructure.  Throughout the interview, Duke explains the need for leaders to be approachable, open to the public and dedicated.

Full Interview

245 MB
Donald Duke Interview
Profile

Donald Duke served as governor of Cross River State, Nigeria, for two terms spanning 1999 to 2007.  During his terms as governor, Duke initiated a variety of reforms promoting business, tourism and investment in Cross River State.  Before running for office, he served as commissioner for finance, budget and planning, and as a member of the National Economic Intelligence Committee and the Federal Economic Council.  He earned a law degree from Nigeria's Ahmadu Bello University, and a master's in law from the University of Pennsylvania. 

Keywords
tourism
service delivery
service delivery
investment
rural development
Not specified