Donald Duke
Ref Batch
H
Focus Area(s)
Ref Batch Number
6
Critical Tasks
Country of Reform
Interviewers
Itumeleng Makgetla
Name
Donald Duke
Interviewee's Position
Former Governor
Interviewee's Organization
Cross River State, Nigeria
Language
English
Nationality of Interviewee
Nigerian
Place (Building/Street)
Calabar
Town/City
Cross River State
Country
Date of Interview
Reform Profile
No
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.
Transcript
Headshot
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.
Full Audio File Location
Full Audio File Size
245 MB
Full Audio Title
Donald Duke Interview