Olusegun Obasanjo shared insights into his imprisonment under General Sani Abacha, explaining it was due to his refusal to remain silent. During a session with young leaders, Obasanjo also discussed Africa’s debt crisis and urged the youth to lead with purpose and positive disruptive actions to drive change.
Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo shared insights into his imprisonment during the regime of General Sani Abacha, explaining that his refusal to remain silent on national and international matters led to his incarceration. Speaking to young African leaders from the Future Africa Leaders Foundation (FALF) at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL), Obasanjo recounted his challenges after retiring from the military at 42. He emphasized that his vocal stance on pressing issues resulted in his imprisonment.
Reflecting on his presidential candidacy in 1999, Obasanjo attributed it to the country’s dire circumstances post-imprisonment, with growing pressure for his leadership. He also discussed Africa’s rising debt crisis, highlighting the role of mismanagement and corruption in worsening the situation, citing an example of a loan taken for a non-existent carpet industry.
Obasanjo praised Chris Oyakhilome, the founder of FALF, for his contributions to empowering young leaders across the continent. In his address, he urged the young leaders to lead with purpose, emphasizing the need for “positive disruptive action” to tackle Africa’s challenges.
The event featured participants from several African nations, including Benin Republic, Guinea-Bissau, Libya, and Kenya, who expressed gratitude for the opportunity. The tour of the Presidential Library inspired them to embrace leadership roles with renewed purpose.
