On Tuesday, Olusegun Obasanjo, the former President, urged Nigerians to strive for the country’s greatness.
In his presidential Library home, he received members of the League of Northern Democrats led by Ibrahim Shekarau.
We Must Put the Past Behind Us – Obasanjo tells Nigerians
“We must put the past behind us and work for the greatness of Nigeria. We have disappointed ourselves, we have disappointed the black race, Africa and the world at large.
So, our concern is right, we have rubbished the value of integrity, no truth, no love but it is not too late to retrace our steps.”
“Yes, you have identified your group as League of Northern Democrats but how I wish you call your group National League of Democrats because where you come from should not be a problem.
Where I was born should not be the enemy of my Nigerianess. I will be increasing by being a Nigerian rather than being a member of the Republic of Oodua.
“I am undoubtedly proud to be a Yoruba but my being a Nigerian should not be the enemy of my being a Yoruba…we must get the best man for the job, it doesn’t matter where he comes from. We must get our acts together.
“The African continent, the black race and the entire world are looking up unto us. When we got our independence, what they were calling us was giant in the sun but is that the situation today?” he questioned.
According to Obasanjo, regionalism is the true cause of the nation’s socioeconomic and political problems.
According to him, the country’s lack of unity has impeded its socioeconomic and political growth.
Despite the challenges, the former President believes Nigeria can improve with the right leadership.