Nigerians during my time made right choices when it comes to leaders — Obasanjo

Chief Olusegun Obasanjo and former president of Nigeria has put side by side, the performances of Nigerian leaders post-independence and what is obtainable today and concluded that Nigerians of those days are much better.

While speaking during the National Daily Awards in Lagos, Obasanjo said that even though politics was ranging then like the country is experiencing today, they were determined to ensure they chose the right leaders who made the right decisions for the country.

“In fact, in making choices of leaders, I will say Nigerians of post-independence make the right choices of leaders. We all know that if your choice is right, the performance and consequences will be right.”

Obasanjo who is the keynote speaker at the occasion, recalled the opinion of world leaders about Nigeria immediately after independence but regretted that the country is not living up to that expectation. “When the then Prime Minister went to the United Nations post-independence, the world referred to Nigeria as a giant in the sun, not even a giant of Africa.

“But the question is, have we lived up to that? If we have not, the question is why? Are there certain qualities that leaders in the post-independence era had that are absent in leadership today? We talk about values, have our values changed? What is Nigeria today, and what is the Nigeria we want? How do we get the Nigeria we want?”

“Over a long period of my life in peacemaking and mediation, I have come to realize that peace, security, and stability are essential ingredients for the development and growth of any country. Without justice, equity, and fairness, no country can attain greatness.

“When you look at us individually, there is something unique about Nigerians. Wherever they go, they excel individually. Today, when you look globally, Nigerians are doing great things individually. It’s time for us to unite and take the country to where it’s supposed to be.

“If we fail to do so, then our existence is useless. We need to make a difference so that we can leave behind a better society.”

News Band reports that Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Charles Soludo was honoured with the Most outstanding Innovative Leadership Award for the year 2022 by the National Daily.

The award was given to Soludo following his well thought out vision and commitment to make Anambra State a model of development with the aim: “To build a livable and prosperous smart megacity”, create an environment for people to live, learn, invest, work, relax and enjoy

Kalu Idika

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