MacArthur Foundation has invested over $234 million in Africa to deepen democratic institutions, with Nigeria getting a large chunk of the commitment. The Executive Director, Institute for Democratic Governance (IDEG), Accra, Ghana, Dr Emmanuel Akewtey, stated this in Abuja, yesterday, while speaking at a symposium to celebrate the 65th birthday of the African Director of MacArthur Foundation, Dr Kole Shettima.

Underscoring the contributions of the MacArthur Foundation to the deepening of democratic institutions across Africa, Akewtey argued that while West Africa had made notable strides in democratic governance, weak institutions, corruption, and limited citizen engagement continued to threaten progress.

On President Donald Trump of the United States of America (USA) threat to wound up USAID, Akewtey said it would affect developing countries, especially the sub-Sahara Africa, adversely.

In his remarks, former Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi, lauded Dr Shettima for bringing credible Nigerians into the civil society space that enabled them to attain political power.

MEANWHILE, President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Shettima, on his 65th birthday. In a statement, yesterday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu appreciated Shettima for his contributions to Nigeria’s democracy, human rights advocacy and nation-building.

Tinubu highlighted Shettima’s role in promoting peace, justice and democratic governance in the country. He also acknowledged the MacArthur Foundation’s efforts, under Shettima’s leadership, in mentoring young leaders and supporting organisations working to address key developmental challenges in the country.