Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has stated that Nigerians have no reason to experience poverty, considering the nation’s vast resources.
He stressed that while the country is richly endowed, poor management of these resources is the root cause of its challenges.
Obasanjo made these comments during a dinner hosted in his honor by the Abia State Government at the Government House in Umuahia on Friday.
“Nigerians have no business with poverty because God has provided us with everything we need. If we fail to properly manage what God has given us, we have no one to blame but ourselves,” he said.
He commended Governor Alex Otti for his transformative efforts in Abia, acknowledging the widespread praise for his administration’s achievements and encouraging him to continue his good work. Obasanjo remarked, “If Nigeria had 18 governors like Governor Otti, we would be able to build the country.”
Reiterating his concerns for the welfare of Nigerians, Obasanjo emphasized the importance of good governance, stating that it is the most crucial factor.
He added, “To me, whether you greet me or not doesn’t matter; what matters is that the people of this country receive the good governance they deserve.”
The former president also recalled advising former Transport Minister Rotimi Amaechi to look into the archives for the national railway development plan, sharing, “I believe that even if you don’t like me, I will offer advice when I think it’s necessary.”
Governor Otti, in his address, expressed gratitude for Obasanjo’s support and reflected on his long political journey, highlighting the importance of vision and perseverance in leadership.
He spoke about the challenges he faced, including two rigged elections between 2015 and 2019, but assured that he remained confident in his vision.
Otti also emphasized his administration’s dedication to making significant reforms in Abia’s education sector to improve access to quality education.
Former Minister Amaechi encouraged political leaders in Abia to begin preparing for the 2027 elections early. He underscored that the value of good leadership becomes evident when a less competent leader takes office.
Amaechi praised Obasanjo’s visionary leadership, noting that regardless of who holds the presidency, Obasanjo’s influence has always been significant. He also stressed the importance of supporting capable leaders like Otti to ensure continued success in future elections.
Lawmakers Chief Ginger Onwusibe and Senator Darlington Nwokocha also expressed their support for Otti’s leadership, thanking Obasanjo for his ongoing contributions to the state’s development and commending the governor for his equitable progress across all local government areas.
(NAN)
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