Kehinde Fajobi
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has urged Nigerians to remain optimistic despite the challenges facing the nation.
Speaking on Arise TV’s Morning Show on Monday, Obasanjo attributed the country’s difficulties to the actions of both leaders and followers but expressed unwavering faith in Nigeria’s potential.
“We wish all Nigerians a happy and prosperous new year, and I will say to Nigerians, We’re going through hardship, but they should never lose hope,” he said.
“I’m an incurable optimist about Nigeria, and we have a great country. Where we are is not where God wants us to be, and I believe that sooner than later we will get to where God wants us to be.
“God wants Nigeria to be a land flowing with milk and honey, not a desert, a basket case, or a failed country.”
Obasanjo added that Nigeria’s current state is due to “either inadvertent or advertent actions of our leaders and followers to some extent” but stressed his belief that “God has great things for Nigeria in the immediate future.”
The former president also addressed comments by U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who previously described certain African nations in derogatory terms.
Obasanjo emphasised the importance of engaging with Trump to correct such perceptions.
“Whether anybody likes it or not, the American people have decided that Trump will be their leader,” Obasanjo said.
“We have to find a way of letting Trump know that what he calls a ‘shithole’ is not it, and we have to make him understand that. I believe there will be policymakers around him that we can reach and talk to.”
He urged mutual respect and collaboration between the U.S. and Nigeria.
“America has an enlightened interest in Africa, and we must tell him, ‘This is your interest, and don’t ignore it. We’re ready to work with you; give us the respect and dignity that is due to us, respect our citizens who are in your country, and let us work together for a peaceful world—a world that is secured, stable, and where prosperity is shared.’ I believe Trump will understand that,” Obasanjo concluded.