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Ex President Olusegun Obasanjo on Monday lamented over inability of Nigeria to live up to expectations since independence in 1960.
Obasanjo spoke virtually at the public presentation of a book titled ‘Reclaiming the Jewel of Africa’, written by former Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Olusegun Aganga. The event was held in Abuja.
The former President stated that the country has disappointed Africa and the world at large.
He also blamed the nation’s level of development on inconsistent policy by previous administrations.
Besides Obasanjo, another former president, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, who also spoke virtually, stated that policy consistency and its implementation and equity must be the watchword of any administration.
Obasanjo has been critical of the country’s leadership and governance, both during his own tenure and in the years that followed. He has pointed out issues such as corruption, economic mismanagement, inadequate infrastructure, and social inequality as major factors contributing to Nigeria’s failure to meet its potential.
Nigeria, despite being rich in natural resources and having a large population, has faced persistent challenges with poverty, unemployment, and security concerns. Political instability and ethnic tensions have also been significant issues in the country’s history.
President Bola Tinubu, who was represented at the event by his Special Adviser on Monetary Policy, Olawale Edun, highlighted steps which Nigeria must take to achieve self-reliance.
Former ministers and heads of government parastatals, members of the diplomatic corps, and traditional rulers were some of the guests at the launch of the book.
Aganga, the author, urged the Federal Government to come up with policies that would make investments thrive.
The book takes a look at how Nigeria can take its place among the comity of nations by adopting principles that will impact positively on its development.
It also provides questions and solutions to governance and how to better position the nation toward socio-economic development.
