Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has emphasized the need for Nigeria to harness its pool of skilled technocrats to foster economic growth. Speaking at a valedictory event organized by Chrisland University in Abeokuta for outgoing Vice-Chancellor Prof. Chinedum Babalola, Obasanjo expressed frustration over the country’s reliance on ineffective leadership that has contributed to the harsh economic conditions faced by Nigerians.
Obasanjo questioned why Nigeria continues to settle for mediocrity when it possesses talented individuals capable of steering the nation towards prosperity. “Nobody will do it for us; we have to do it for ourselves, and I believe there are people everywhere, and we just have to look for them,” he asserted, highlighting the importance of proactive leadership.
He pointed out that Nigerians have made significant contributions on international platforms, noting that “two major development banks in Africa are headed by Nigerians,” and mentioning Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director-General of the World Trade Organization. He also referenced Amina Mohammed, the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, asking, “Why are we hanging on to mediocre and then languishing in a harsh economy?”
Urging for a shift in focus, Obasanjo called on Nigerians to explore various sectors such as agriculture, tourism, industry, and education to diversify the economy. He reflected on his own tenure as a leader, recounting the successes of Nigeria’s shipping line during his administration. “When I was the head of state, the country shipping line had five ships, and 19 brand new ones were being ordered by my government,” he noted.
However, he lamented the decline in the national shipping industry, recounting a particular ship that was sold for half a million dollars only to be repurchased later for two million dollars, along with additional costs to make it seaworthy. “When they told me the story, I said leave it with them; the people who arrested it will leave it the following day without a dime paid because it is a scrap,” he explained, illustrating the mismanagement of resources.
Obasanjo’s reflections extended to Nigeria Airways, where he remarked, “If you go through the story of Nigeria Airways, you will weep for Nigeria.” He criticized the lack of accountability for those responsible for the airline’s downfall, stating, “Most of the people who did this got away with it because there were no consequences.”
He further highlighted systemic corruption within institutions, sharing a troubling anecdote about a police pension scheme official who received a light sentence for embezzlement. “Someone called my attention to an online publication… Now what do you do? Why would anybody tomorrow not go and steal?” Obasanjo questioned, emphasizing the need for stricter repercussions to deter corruption.
In closing, the former president commended Dr. Winfred Awosika, the founder and visitor of Chrisland University, for her dedication to enhancing education in Nigeria. He also praised the outgoing vice-chancellor, acknowledging his contributions in elevating the institution from its foundational stages to its current esteemed status.
