Nigel Albuquerque | The Champion of Collective Leadership | Inspiring Unity, Driving Change | Global TV
NV Paulose, Chairman, Global TV +91 98441 82044
The City of Smile and Respect; Mangalore city is often described as the cultural and economic heart of coastal Karnataka. The city is also known as the intellectual capital of India. Mangaluru stands out for its vibrant traditions and for the commitment of its civic-minded citizens.
Nigel Albuquerque, the founder-director of the Mangaluru Civic Group (MCG), is a role model in many ways. His integrity and progressive action is well appreciated and well taken by and large by the community.
Recently, Nigel demonstrated his unwavering dedication to honesty when he found a lost bag near Lalbagh containing ₹1.5 lakhs. There was no identifying documents in the bag. But he conducted a private investigation and located the person who had lost his bag. It was such a joy when the bag was handed over to the rightful owner through the Barke police station. This act of honesty earned him widespread praise, reaffirming his reputation as a man of principle.
A Visionary Civic Leader
He is the convenor of the Mangaluru Civic Group with over 5,000 active members. Nigel is a civic leader engaged in initiatives enhancing the city’s civic landscape. The group’s influence is significant with their focus on bringing transparency in governance. His remarkable initiatives created a great impact in the grassroots civic network in the city with citizens asking for democratic processes in local governance. We can see a meaningful change in the city with the people engaged in appreciative inquiry models in social initiatives.
Nigel is relentless engaged in the pursuit of transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement. He put efforts to identifying several illegal constructions and reporting them. His efforts have also played a critical role in the successful implementation of the Ward Committee (WC) system in Mangaluru. It was an exceptional achievement that are yet to happen in larger cities like Bengaluru, Mysuru, and Hubli.
Championing Urban Development
Under Nigel’s guidance, MCG has spearheaded several initiatives aimed at making Mangaluru a more livable city. These efforts include advocating for improved public transportation, safer pedestrian pathways, and the creation of green spaces. “Our goal is to ensure that urban planning prioritizes the community’s needs,” Nigel emphasizes.
Transparency in governance is the cornerstone of MCG’s work. The group regularly organizes public forums where citizens directly engage with government officials, fostering dialogue on issues ranging from budget allocations to project implementation.
Promoting Environmental Awareness
Nigel’s environmental advocacy has made a tangible impact on Mangaluru’s ecological landscape. Notable campaigns include citywide tree-planting drives and workshops on waste management, which have educated thousands of residents on the importance of waste segregation and reducing single-use plastics.
Advocacy for the Ward Committee System
A staunch proponent of decentralization, Nigel has championed the Ward Committee system, which brings governance closer to the people. By educating residents about the system and encouraging their participation, he has empowered citizens to take ownership of their communities and hold their elected representatives accountable.
Integrity in Action
Nigel’s call for accountability extends beyond individuals to institutions. In his article for Global TV, he highlights the littering problem around clinics and diagnostic centers in Mangaluru. “If common decency doesn’t work, let’s talk about money,” he proposes, advocating for a hefty fine of ₹15,000 for those caught littering, with provisions for CCTV enforcement. He also urges clinics to take responsibility by installing waste bins, putting up signposts, and collaborating with waste management agencies.
A Civic Vision for the Future
Nigel’s future plans for MCG are ambitious. The group is working on creating a comprehensive database of civic issues to streamline problem reporting and improve government response. Environmental initiatives focused on promoting sustainable energy solutions are also on the horizon.
His rapport with lawyers, intellectuals, and local stakeholders positions him as a strong contender for a potential political role. There is growing speculation that Nigel may receive a ticket from either the Congress or BJP for the MCC elections, particularly for the Bejai constituency, where both parties currently lack strong candidates.
