Obasanjo Criticizes Leadership Deficiencies at Conference, Advocates for Agricultural Self-Sufficiency and Innovative Farming Techniques
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Former President Olusegun Obasanjo addressed the 2024 Leadership Empowerment International Conference in Abeokuta, Ogun State, criticizing Nigerian leaders for their self-centeredness and lack of knowledge. He argued that these issues have hindered Nigeria’s potential and global standing. The conference, which also honored individuals with Doctor of Leadership and Theology awards, was organized by South Africa’s Immanuel Theology Institute International and Nigeria’s Priesthood Leadership Development Initiative Inc.
Olusegun Obasanjo emphasized the importance of continuous leadership and community service, regardless of age. At the 2024 Leadership Empowerment International Conference, he pinpointed self-centeredness, a lack of knowledge, and a failure to prioritize service as major issues plaguing Nigerian leadership. Obasanjo argued that addressing these leadership flaws could lead to broader improvements in the country. He praised Prof. Olusesi Obateye for his efforts in promoting good leadership and stressed the need to instill effective leadership principles at all levels of society.
Obasanjo praised Prof. Olusesi Obateye, International Coordinator of the Priesthood Leadership Development Initiative, and Prof. Van Den Berg Edward Alfred, President of the South Africa-based institute, for their efforts in recognizing and encouraging Nigerians with leadership potential. Speaking at the 2024 Leadership Empowerment International Conference, Obasanjo emphasized the crucial role of effective leadership in national progress.
Earlier in the conference, Prof. Obateye addressed the theme “Responsible and Responsive Leadership,” expressing concern over Nigeria’s lack of strong leaders. He attributed the country’s ongoing underdevelopment to this leadership deficit, nearly 64 years after independence.
In a recent visit from a Niger State delegation led by Governor Mohammed Bago’s commissioners and Special Advisers, former President Olusegun Obasanjo emphasized that Nigeria’s persistent problems will continue until the country achieves agricultural self-sufficiency. Obasanjo drew a parallel between his 1976 “Operation Feed the Nation” initiative and Bago’s current efforts, praising the latter’s focus on modernizing agriculture. He stressed the crucial need for Nigeria to feed itself to avoid ongoing and future challenges, asserting, “A nation that cannot feed itself is sitting on a time bomb.”
During the recent visit from Niger State officials, former President Olusegun Obasanjo urged other state governors to emulate Niger State’s focus on agricultural development to help Nigeria achieve self-sufficiency in food production. He commended Niger State for its agricultural investments and modern practices, expressing his intention to visit the state to learn from their advancements and share ideas to enhance his own agricultural projects.
Obasanjo also highlighted the need for Nigerians to explore soilless farming techniques, cautioning that current land use trends might soon lead to a shortage of arable land. He emphasized that adopting innovative farming methods is crucial for sustaining Nigeria’s agricultural productivity and addressing future challenges.
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