By Enyichukwu Enemanna
Former President of Nigeria has called on leaders across board to develop effective strategies to ensure that the nation’s abundant resources are wisely deployed for the good of every citizen.
Olusegun Obasanjo who ruled the West African nation first as a military head of state, before coming to power in 1999-2007 as a civilian leader, has been criticized for supervising corruption during his eight years in office.
“God has equipped Nigeria with everything necessary for growth,” Obasanjo known for being critical of his successors said on Sunday at the 40th anniversary celebration of the Methodist Archdiocese of Abuja.
“Just as Egypt has the River Nile, we have our own rivers and a wealth of natural resources. Nigeria was not created to struggle, and it’s our responsibility to recognize and utilize these blessings. Many nations lack the resources we take for granted,” the former Nigerian leader fondly remembered for his stiff opposition for his then Vice, Atiku Abubakar to succeed him in office stated.
He urged leaders, religious figures, and citizens to pray for Nigeria’s healing, acknowledging that the nation’s current challenges are not due to a lack of resources but poor management.
“We have misused the gifts God has given us,” Obasanjo stated, “but if we humble ourselves and seek His guidance, He will heal our land.”
The largest African nation has battled escalating inflation which took an unprecedented twist May last year when the current administration of President Bola Tinubu came to power.
The President on his first day of resumption announced to total removal of subsidy in petroleum, the country’s economic mainstay.
This was followed by the unification of the forex window, twin action that has seen a record increase in transportation cost and food inflation in a population with burgeoning unemployment rate.
In his October 1 Independence speech to the nation, Tinubu acknowledged economic hardship among the over 200 million population, but assured that policy actions being put in place by the government will soon bring succour to citizens.
Less than two weeks after the promise however, citizens woke up to another increase in petroleum pump price, an action the government blamed on the regulator, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), denying involvement.
