Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has stated that Nigeria is not a difficult nation to govern.
He admitted that Nigeria is a diverse and complex nation, but explained that its strength lies in its unity in diversity.
He made the remark on Tuesday at the inauguration of the Bakhita ICT Centre at the Catholic Secretariat in Sokoto State.
“There are many good things in Nigeria. These are shown in our unity in diversity, and Nigeria is what it is today because of its diversity.
“If diversity is managed with good governance and inclusiveness, then we will be respected and counted among the leading nations in the world,” he said.
The former president added that honesty and sincerity on the part of leaders remained crucial in managing the country.
“Nigeria is not a difficult country to rule if leaders are honest with themselves, with God, and with the people.
“I am one of the greatest beneficiaries of Nigeria’s diversity. Since 1979, I have sought counsel and blessings from elders across the North, South, East and West to manage our unity in diversity,” Obasanjo said.
He emphasised the importance of education and knowledge as tools for national development.
“No matter our religion, tribe, culture or language, we cannot develop our full potential without education.
“In today’s world, we need not only general knowledge about our society but also practical skills to empower individuals, families, communities, and the nation,” he added.
Obasanjo warned of the challenges Nigeria could face by 2050 when the population was projected to reach 400 million.
“If we fail to prepare for these challenges, the Boko Haram of today will be child’s play.
“Already, 24 million children who should be in school are out of school. That alone could become a recruiting ground for future insurgencies.
“We must not give up on educating every Nigerian child. If everyone is educated, you will have better servants, better leaders, and a better society,” he cautioned.
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