In a thought-provoking address, former President Olusegun Obasanjo recently emphasized that Nigeria should not be grappling with poverty. Addressing a dinner hosted by the Abia State Government in Umuahia, he pointed to the nation's rich tapestry of natural and human resources as a foundation for prosperity.
Obasanjo's message was clear: it’s not a scarcity of resources that is holding Nigeria back, but rather the mismanagement of what the country possesses. “Nigerians have no business with poverty because God has given us all that we need,” he asserted. He added, “If we are mismanaging what God has given us, we do not have God to blame; we have ourselves to blame.”
Obasanjo took the opportunity to commend the transformative governance style of Abia State Governor Alex Otti. He highlighted Otti's administration as one that has garnered widespread approval, suggesting that if Nigeria had at least 18 governors of similar caliber, the country would see significant strides towards development. “For me, whether you don’t greet me or I greet you and you don’t answer, what is important is that the people of this country are getting what they deserve, and what they deserve is good governance,” he stated.
Reflecting on his time in office, Obasanjo recounted a memorable interaction with former Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi. He urged him to consult historical records related to Nigeria’s national railway plan, an initiative Amaechi was previously unaware of. This exchange underscores the importance of learning from past experiences in shaping effective policies, even if results may vary.
Governor Otti reciprocated Obasanjo’s praise, underscoring the value of vision and perseverance in leadership. He shared his political journey, which included setbacks in 2015 and 2019 and culminated in a victory fueled by divine conviction and tenacity. Otti emphasized his administration's commitment to educational reforms aimed at broadening access to quality learning across Abia State.
Former Minister Amaechi also weighed in at the event, advocating for early political mobilization in preparation for the upcoming 2027 general elections. He observed that the true merit of good leadership becomes evident only when faced with less competent administrations. In his remarks, he lauded Obasanjo's enduring legacy in national matters, calling him a leader whose impact transcends political transitions, and urged the citizens of Abia to continue supporting Governor Otti for sustained development.
Dignitaries at the event, including Chief Ginger Onwusibe and Senator Darlington Nwokocha, echoed the sentiments shared by Obasanjo, recognizing the former president's unwavering support and commending Governor Otti's efforts in promoting inclusive development across all local government areas in Abia State.
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