Former President Olusegun Obasanjo says Nigeria, blessed with abundant resources, has “no business being poor,” attributing the nation’s economic struggles to the mismanagement of its wealth. Speaking at a dinner hosted by the Abia State Government, Obasanjo stated that “if we are mismanaging what God has given us, we do not have God to blame, we have ourselves to blame.”
Obasanjo praised Governor Alex Otti’s transformative leadership in Abia State, citing widespread public approval of his administration’s performance. He urged Otti to continue his impactful governance, emphasizing that “if Nigeria had 18 governors doing well in their responsibilities as leaders, we will build the country up.” He reiterated his commitment to ensuring Nigerians receive quality governance.
Reflecting on past interactions, Obasanjo recalled advising former Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi, on the existence of a national railway development plan. He stressed the importance of leaders utilizing available resources and plans for national development. Amaechi, in response, acknowledged Obasanjo’s visionary leadership and urged Abians to support Otti’s re-election in 2027 to ensure continued progress.
Governor Otti expressed gratitude for Obasanjo’s support and highlighted the perseverance required to achieve political success. He recounted his decade-long political journey, emphasizing the importance of vision and resilience. He also detailed his administration’s reforms in the education sector, aimed at improving access to quality education.
Lawmakers and Labour Party officials, including Chief Ginger Onwusibe and Senator Darlington Nwokocha, commended Otti’s equitable development initiatives across Abia State and thanked Obasanjo for his continued support of the governor’s administration.
