A former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, has stated that the most crucial consideration for Nigeria’s leadership is the ability to foster justice and a sense of belonging for all citizens, regardless of ethnic origin or political affiliation.

Naijaonpoint reports that Lawal argued that the question of who should lead Nigeria after the 2023 presidential election was “beyond partisan loyalty or ethnic sentiment,” insisting that what truly mattered was the capacity to create a fair and inclusive environment for every Nigerian.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Tonight on Monday, the former SGF said leadership should be entrusted to individuals who can unite and represent the interests of all citizens.

He said, “We know who we are that are driving it. We know what we read and what we see on the streets. We know what people say on the streets. We are Nigerians now. We are not living in heaven. Power should go to the person who will give every Nigerian a sense of belonging, a sense of justice. Even if he is a Lebanese.”

Lawal emphasised that political debates often boiled down to how governance affected individuals on a personal level.

He added, “The issue is about politics. You see, the thing is personal. In the end, to the individual, to me, to you, how are you living? Is there an environment in which your aspirations are achieved? And who can guarantee that environment? So that is what is most important to the individual Nigerian.”