Obasanjo accuses self-serving leaders of hindering Nigeria’s progress

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has criticized Nigeria’s leadership as the primary obstacle to the nation’s progress, stating that self-centered leaders have prevented the country from achieving its potential and securing a prominent place in the world. He also highlighted that these leaders suffer from a significant deficit in knowledge.

Obasanjo made these comments on Saturday in Abeokuta, Ogun State, during the 2024 Leadership Empowerment International Conference. The event saw the awarding of Doctor of Leadership and Theology honors by the Immanuel Theology Institute International from South Africa and Nigeria’s Priesthood Leadership Development Initiative Inc.

He asserted that leadership is crucial and that it should always involve serving one’s community. Obasanjo emphasized that effective leadership is essential for Nigeria to resolve its issues. He praised Prof. Olusesi Obateye and Prof. Van Den Berg Edward Alfred for their efforts in recognizing and fostering leadership among Nigerians.

Earlier, Obateye discussed the theme “Responsible And Responsive Leadership,” noting that the lack of effective leaders has contributed to Nigeria’s stagnation despite nearly 64 years of independence.

In a related matter, Obasanjo stressed the importance of Nigeria achieving agricultural self-sufficiency to address its challenges. During a visit from Niger State officials, he lauded Governor Mohammed Bago’s agricultural initiatives, comparing them to his own “Operation Feed the Nation” from 1976. Obasanjo warned that Nigeria’s inability to feed itself is a serious risk and urged other states to emulate Niger State’s approach to agriculture.

He encouraged investment in modern farming techniques, including soilless farming, to combat potential shortages of arable land and sustain agricultural productivity.