Former President Olusegun Obasanjo says that although Nigeria is a diverse and complex nation, it is not a difficult country to govern.
Mr Obasanjo made the remark on Tuesday at the inauguration of the Bakhita ICT Centre at the Catholic Secretariat in Sokoto State, where he stressed that Nigeria’s strength lies in its unity in diversity.
“There are many good things in Nigeria,” said Mr Obasanjo. “These are shown in our unity in diversity, and Nigeria is what it is today because of its diversity.”
He added, “If diversity is managed with good governance and inclusiveness, then we will be respected and counted among the leading nations in the world.”
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,” Mr Obasanjo said.
He emphasised the importance of education and knowledge as tools for national development.
“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.
Mr Obasanjo warned of the challenges Nigeria could face by 2050, when the population is 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.
Mr Obasanjo commended Governor Ahmed Aliyu for his efforts in managing Sokoto State and praised the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, for his commitment to unity.
He also lauded Bishop Matthew Kukah for establishing the ICT centre, while acknowledging Aare Afe Babalola for supporting the initiative.
In his remarks, Mr Abubakar appreciated Mr Obasanjo for gracing the occasion and urged Nigerians to emulate his dedication to promoting unity.
He emphasised the urgent need for Nigerians to unite in addressing security challenges and fostering development.
Representing Mr Aliyu, Aminu Dikko, the chief of staff to the Sokoto State government, thanked Mr Obasanjo and the Catholic Diocese for the initiative.
Courses at the centre will include computer literacy, office productivity, coding, computer engineering, software development, data science, and digital analysis, among others.
(NAN)