Nigeria Has Disappointed Africa Due to Poor Leadership – Obasanjo

 

Former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has expressed deep disappointment with Nigeria's leadership, stating that the country has failed both Africa and the black race. Speaking on Tuesday, Obasanjo lamented that despite the nation's vast potential, poor governance, disunity, and regionalism have hindered its progress.

Obasanjo made these remarks while hosting a 20-member delegation from the League of Northern Democrats, led by former Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Ibrahim Shekarau, at his residence in Abeokuta. He attributed Nigeria's long-standing challenges to the regionalism practiced before independence in 1960, which he said laid the foundation for the nation's lack of unity.

Despite the country's current state, the former president emphasized his unwavering optimism that Nigeria can still overcome its challenges. "As long as we can reflect on our past mistakes and correct them, there is hope for a brighter future," Obasanjo said.

He explained that since independence, Nigeria has struggled with the complexities of being a nation formed from three distinct regions. However, he stressed that the focus should be on merit, capacity, and leadership ability rather than ethnicity or region. "It’s time we prioritize national interest over regional biases," he urged.

Addressing the League of Northern Democrats, Obasanjo encouraged them to broaden their identity to a national level, suggesting they rename their group to the "National League of Democrats." He added, "Being Nigerian should enhance, not conflict with, our ethnic identities. We must select the best people for leadership positions, regardless of where they come from."

Reflecting on Nigeria's early years, Obasanjo recalled that the world once saw the country as the "Giant in the Sun," a beacon of hope for the black race. "Today, that image has faded. We’ve disappointed not just ourselves, but the black race, Africa, and the world at large," he said, urging for a collective effort to restore Nigeria's greatness.

While acknowledging the challenges, Obasanjo remains hopeful that Nigeria's situation is salvageable if the country unites and works towards common goals. He reaffirmed his commitment to Pan-Africanism, patriotism, and national unity, noting that Nigeria's success is critical for the entire continent.

Earlier in the meeting, Shekarau explained that the League of Northern Democrats was created to promote good governance and national unity. He expressed concerns about youth unemployment, education, security, and underdevelopment, emphasizing the need for credible leadership to address these issues.

Shekarau highlighted the stark contrast between the millions of registered voters and the small ruling class, stating, "It’s unfortunate that Nigeria's 93 million registered voters are unable to elect credible leaders from just over 11,000 public officials." He expressed hope that through advocacy, the group could influence positive change in governance.

Obasanjo concluded by offering his support to the group and their mission, stating that while his age may prevent him from being an active member, he would be honored to serve as their patron.