Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has once again sparked critical conversations as he passionately addressed the urgent need to eradicate poverty across Africa. Speaking at Dele Momodu’s leadership lecture themed “How to End Hunger and Poverty in Africa,” Obasanjo emphasized that poverty has no place on the continent, especially in a nation like Nigeria.
Drawing a powerful comparison, Obasanjo pointed out that if China could successfully lift over 700 million citizens out of poverty, Nigeria with its vast resources and intelligent population—has no excuse. “Before we talk about food, let’s talk about security,” he stressed, noting that national development cannot thrive in chaos.
He also highlighted education as a critical weapon in the fight against poverty. “Where there’s no education, there’s bound to be poverty,” Obasanjo said, urging African governments to prioritize education and ensure no child is left behind.
Obasanjo further stressed that quality leadership is essential. “Leadership built on character and community-mindedness is the greatest weapon against poverty,” he declared.
Echoing his sentiments, the Ooni of Ife encouraged Nigerians to be more patriotic, saying, “From what we eat to what we wear, we must promote our own. It may not be perfect at first, but soon we’ll be the envy of the world.”
Obasanjo concluded with a stern warning: “If we don’t take responsibility, we are all sitting on a keg of gunpowder.”