Nigeria Nigeria Isn’t Difficult to Manage, Says Obasanjo at Akintola Williams Memorial Lecture

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo emphasizes that Nigeria's leadership is key to its progress, not its complexity. Speaking at a memorial lecture for Akintola Williams, Obasanjo reflected on his presidency, highlighting economic achievements and debt relief efforts.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has attributed Nigeria’s challenges to a lack of effective leadership, asserting that the country is not inherently difficult to manage. Speaking at a memorial lecture for the late Akintola Williams, organized by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) in Lagos, Obasanjo emphasized the importance of strong leadership in fostering national development.

Acknowledging Nigeria's complexity, Obasanjo highlighted his experience as president, claiming he managed the nation with the resources at hand. He noted that when he took office, Nigeria had only N3.7 billion in reserves, with N3.5 billion going to debt servicing. His administration worked towards debt relief, eventually increasing the country’s reserves to over N45 billion and saving excess crude earnings.

Reflecting on his tenure, Obasanjo expressed pride in his contributions to Nigeria’s economic growth, stating, “I did everything I should do for Nigeria and I can beat my chest and say that.”

During the lecture, Obasanjo also praised Akintola Williams for his service to Nigeria, describing him as a "sage" who made significant contributions to the country’s political, social, and economic sectors. ICAN President, Davidson Alaribe, commended Williams' leadership and urged Nigerians to honor his legacy by upholding the high standards he set throughout his life.

The event served as a platform to discuss the nation's leadership challenges and honor the late Williams’ impactful legacy.