By 9jaeye 
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has voiced strong criticism regarding Nigeria’s failure to properly utilize its abundant natural resources. Speaking at the 40th-anniversary celebration of the Methodist Archdiocese of Abuja on Sunday, October 13, 2024, Obasanjo stressed that Nigeria, despite being blessed by God with immense natural wealth, has failed to harness these resources effectively. He lamented that the country continues to face hardship due to poor leadership and mismanagement.
In his speech, Obasanjo expressed his disappointment in Nigeria’s leadership for squandering the gifts God provided to the nation. He stated that God endowed Nigeria with abundant resources, including crude oil, fertile land, and major rivers like the Niger and Benue. According to him, these resources should have set the country on a path to prosperity. However, he noted that Nigeria’s inability to manage its wealth has left the country in a state of constant struggle.
Call for Responsible Leadership
Obasanjo further emphasized the need for Nigeria’s leaders to recognize the country’s blessings and act responsibly. He urged leaders to adopt more responsible governance practices to transform these resources into national development. The former president noted that while many nations face significant challenges due to limited resources, Nigeria’s underperformance is largely a result of poor management. He called on both political leaders and citizens to reflect on their roles in the nation’s progress, urging them to seek divine guidance and humility in their actions.
A Vision for Nigeria’s Future
Obasanjo expressed optimism that if Nigeria’s leadership and citizens take corrective measures, the country could overcome its current challenges. He reiterated that God did not create Nigeria to struggle, but rather, the country’s woes are man-made due to greed, corruption, and mismanagement. He urged Nigerians to humble themselves and embrace the opportunity to reform. Obasanjo concluded by calling for unity among leaders and citizens to heal the country and realize its full potential.
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