Nigeria State is complex, but it is not difficult to govern – Obasanjo

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo said on Tuesday that Nigeria was a diverse and complex country that was not difficult to govern.

He stated this during the inauguration of the Bakhita ICT Center at the Catholic Secretariat in the Sokoto state.

The former president stressed that the power of Nigeria lies in his diversity.

Obasanjo said: “There are many good things in Nigeria. This is shown in our unity in diversity, and Nigeria is what it is today because of its diversity.

“If diversity is managed with good governance and inclusive, then we will be respected and calculated among the leading countries in the world.”

The former president added that honesty and sincerity in the leaders remain important in managing the country.

“Nigeria is not a country that is difficult to master if leaders are honest with themselves, with God, and with people.

“I am one of the biggest beneficiaries of Nigerian diversity. Since 1979, I have sought advice and blessings from elders throughout the north, south, east, and west to manage our unity in diversity,” added the older statesman.

He stressed the importance of education and knowledge as a tool for national development.

“No matter our religion, ethnicity, culture, or language, we cannot develop our full potential without education.

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“In today’s world, we not only need general knowledge about our society but also practical skills to empower individuals, families, communities and nations,” he said.

Obasanjo warned the challenges that Nigeria could face in 2050 when the population was projected to reach 400 million.

“If we fail to prepare for this challenge, Boko Haram today will be a children’s game.

“Already, 24 million children who were supposed to go to school outside of school. That alone could be a place for recruitment for future rebellions.

“We must not give up to educate every Nigerian child. If everyone is educated, you will have a better servant, a better leader, and a better society,” the former President warned.