Former President Olusegun Obasanjo said there is no reason for Nigerians to make the country’s abundant natural and human resources justified.
Addressing Friday at the Abia State Government’s dinner for honor at the Government Building in Umuahia, Obasanjo lamented that he did not impose mismanagement, rather than lack of resources, was a reproach for the U.S. economic struggle.
“Nigerians have no poor business because God has given us everything we need,” Obasancho said. “If we immorally say what God has given us, we have no God to blame, we have to blame ourselves.”
He praised Abia Governor Alex Otti for calling a transformative approach to governance and for his wide recognition of government performance. Obasanjo pointed out that if at least 18 governors in Nigeria perform well during their tenure, the country will witness huge progress.
The former president reiterated his commitment to the welfare of Nigerians and stressed the importance of effective leadership. He said: “For me, whether you don’t say hello or I don’t answer, it’s important for me that the people of this country are getting what they deserve, and what they deserve is good governance.”
Recalling his tenure, Obasanjo mentioned an example involving former transport minister rotimi Amaechi, who had suggested that he consult archive records about the country’s national railway plan. He noted that Amaechi was not aware of the plan and said the former minister ended up implementing some of the plan, although the results were different.
Governor Oti praised Obasanjo’s support in his speech and emphasized the importance of vision and durability in leadership. He talks about his decade-long political journey, including electoral setbacks before 2015 and 2019, and says his ultimate victory is based on divine belief and determination. The governor added that his administration has prioritized reforms in the education sector to expand access to quality learning across the state.
Amaechi, who also spoke at the event, called for early political mobilization ahead of the 2027 election. He warned that the value of good leadership often becomes apparent only after competent governments are responsible. Praise Obasanjo for his consistency in state affairs, he describes the former president as a leader whose legacy transcends political change. He urged the people of Abia to continue to support Governor Oti to ensure the sustained development and success of future elections.
Other VIPs, including MPs representing federal voters in Isiala Ngwa North and South, and Senator Darlington Nwokocha, acting National Labor Party secretary, praised Obasanjo’s strong support and provided support to the governor who promotes inclusive development across all local governments in the state.
