Former President Obasanjo Condemns Nigeria’s Failure, Calls for a New Course | Cliptv Online

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed deep disappointment in Nigeria’s performance, stating that the country has failed not only itself but also the African continent and the world at large. He made these remarks during the public presentation of the book “Reclaiming the Jewel of Africa” written by former Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Olusegun Aganga, in Abuja.

President Bola Tinubu, represented by his Special Adviser on Monetary Policy, Olawale Edun, unveiled the book during the event.

Obasanjo, in his keynote address, acknowledged that Nigeria has not lived up to expectations over the last 63 years. He pointed out that the country’s failure has had significant repercussions on Africa, the black race, and the global community.

While he commended Aganga’s book for outlining the way forward, Obasanjo emphasized that admitting Nigeria’s failures is the first step towards charting a new course. He criticized the tendency to prioritize ego, ethnic and religious sentiments, and self-centeredness over genuine development and progress.

The former President identified two crucial interconnected factors for all-round development: peace and security, which require justice, equity, and inclusivity in society. He expressed dissatisfaction with Nigeria’s performance in these areas in the last decade and a half.

Obasanjo also highlighted the critical issue of education, noting that over 20 million children who should be in school are currently out of the education system. He stressed the dire consequences this would have for the country’s future.

Addressing the challenges of unemployment and poverty, Obasanjo pointed out the neglect of skill acquisition, empowerment, and employment opportunities for the youth. He warned that the country is living dangerously, with rising cases of banditry, Boko Haram insurgency, kidnapping, and other organized crimes.

Obasanjo urged Nigeria to adopt good policies that are thoughtfully implemented and to prioritize skill development and empowerment for the youth. He emphasized that the country must address its weaknesses to move forward and fulfill its potential as the “Jewel of Africa.”