Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has urged African nations, especially Nigeria, to confront poverty with urgency and visionary leadership, drawing inspiration from China’s success in lifting 700 million citizens out of poverty.
Obasanjo spoke on Friday at a leadership lecture organized by media mogul Dele Momodu in Victoria Island, Lagos. The event, themed “How to End Hunger and Poverty in Africa,” attracted notable figures including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, and Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke.
“Before addressing food insecurity, we must prioritize national security,” Obasanjo said. “Education remains one of the most powerful tools against poverty. Without it, poverty becomes inevitable.”
He emphasized that leadership is the most vital factor in Africa’s battle against poverty. “Leadership is the key,” he stated. “No child must be left behind in our quest for development.”
The former president maintained that Nigeria has the resources to overcome poverty and hunger, but must embrace integrity, discipline, and good governance. “Nigeria has no excuse for extreme poverty,” he said. “If China can do it, so can we.”
Obasanjo warned of dire consequences if the country fails to take immediate action. “We’re sitting on a gunpowder keg,” he cautioned. “Until we eliminate poverty, the world won’t take us seriously.”
Supporting his remarks, the Ooni of Ife stressed the importance of patriotism and national unity. He called for a collective effort to build a stronger, more prosperous Africa.
Governor Adeleke, in his address, praised Dele Momodu’s initiative in fostering leadership. He also highlighted Osun State’s developmental strides, especially in education and infrastructure.
