Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has voiced serious concerns about Nigeria’s stagnation in growth and development, stating that the nation is falling short of its potential. His remarks came during the 8th Brigadier General Michael Agu (rtd) annual distinguished lecture and awards ceremony, held at the Obasanjo Space Centre in Lugbe, Abuja, over the weekend.
Obasanjo criticized the ineffective implementation of policies in the country, lamenting that Nigeria is burdened by numerous unexecuted initiatives. “It is not enough for leaders to have policies or make statements. We are not short of policies in Nigeria. Unfortunately, Nigeria has become a burial ground of policies that are either unimplemented or unexecuted,” he said.
Highlighting the need for concrete action, Obasanjo emphasized that true progress stems from deliberate efforts rather than mere rhetoric. “Those who make progress achieved progress, not based on wishing to make progress, but on taking actions. They do not take two steps forward and three steps backwards,” he remarked, pointing to the setbacks Nigeria faces in various sectors.
The former president expressed his disappointment over the inconsistent approaches to governance, stating, “As long as we are doing things this way, progress will elude us. Let us carry the ones we can carry; we cannot be a jack of all trades and master of none.”
Obasanjo also took time to reflect on the establishment of the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) during his administration. He recalled sending over 100 Nigerian engineers to China for specialized training and outlined a clear vision for the country’s space program. His administration aimed to launch Nigeria’s first satellite in collaboration with China, followed by a second satellite with increased Nigerian participation, ultimately leading to the launch of a fully Nigerian-made satellite.
As Nigeria grapples with ongoing challenges, Obasanjo’s call for effective policy implementation and actionable governance resonates as a timely reminder of the need for progress and development.