Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed his concerns about Nigeria’s inability to fulfill its potential, citing disunity as the primary reason. According to Obasanjo, this lack of unity has prevented the country from becoming the leader it was expected to be in Africa and for the global Black race.

During a meeting with a delegation of Northern Democrats led by former Kano State governor, Alhaji Ibrahim Shekarau, Obasanjo explained that Nigeria’s divisions began before its independence in 1960. At that time, the country was divided into three major regions, each with its own leadership. This regionalism has continued to affect the country’s ability to unite and move forward as a single entity.

Obasanjo believes that for Nigeria to progress, it must move beyond regionalism and focus on the national interest. Leaders should be chosen based on merit, capacity, and ability, rather than where they come from. He said, “It’s time we started working for the national interest rather than focusing on regional backgrounds.”

He also encouraged groups like the Northern Democrats to adopt a national outlook rather than a regional one. “Where we come from should not be a problem. Our backgrounds should not divide us as Nigerians,” he stated.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s past, Obasanjo recalled how the country was once seen as a “giant in the sun” at the time of its independence. However, he expressed disappointment that Nigeria has not lived up to that image. “We have disappointed ourselves, the Black race, Africa, and the world,” he remarked.

Despite these setbacks, Obasanjo remains hopeful. He believes that if Nigeria can correct its past mistakes and come together as a nation, it can still achieve greatness. He urged the country to move beyond its past failures and focus on a brighter future.