Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has issued a clarion call to Nigerian leaders, stressing that the nation’s developmental journey remains far from complete. He urged both current and former officeholders not to rest on their laurels, but to remain actively involved in shaping Nigeria’s future.
Obasanjo made this assertion on Monday during the public presentation of “Being True to Myself,” the autobiography of former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido. The event, held at the NAF Conference Centre in Abuja, drew a host of political heavyweights, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, and other prominent dignitaries.
Speaking at the high-profile gathering, Obasanjo emphasized that the objectives for a prosperous and inclusive Nigeria are yet to be fully realized. “Nigeria that we are working for, we haven’t gotten there. And I believe it is the responsibility of each of us to ensure that we get there,” he said. “Our job is not finished until we are finished.”
The statesman’s remarks were received with applause, resonating deeply with the event’s theme of leadership, legacy, and national service. While praising Lamido’s contributions to governance and political integrity, Obasanjo advised him and his peers not to consider themselves retired from national duty.
“I told Sule Lamido, don’t talk to me about retirement yet. We are not done. The nation still needs your wisdom, your energy, and your unwavering spirit,” Obasanjo said.
Obasanjo’s speech comes at a critical time when Nigeria faces pressing socio-economic challenges, including inflation, insecurity, youth unemployment, and a wavering sense of national unity. His message aligns with a growing sentiment among citizens and political observers who believe that Nigeria’s elder statesmen must continue to lend their voices and influence to policy direction and governance reforms.
Many analysts view Obasanjo’s remarks as both a motivational charge to emerging leaders and a subtle critique of the present political leadership’s pace in achieving key national goals. With Nigeria still grappling with structural inefficiencies and weak institutions, Obasanjo’s assertion reaffirms the need for committed leadership across all levels.
Sule Lamido’s autobiography, Being True to Myself, chronicles his political journey, activism, and dedication to public service. The book serves not only as a personal memoir but as a testament to the trials and triumphs of Nigeria’s democratic evolution. Obasanjo described Lamido as a “man of courage and principle” whose political life should inspire the younger generation.
The launch of the book also became a reunion of political heavyweights across party lines. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, both past presidential contenders, used the occasion to advocate for truth, legacy, and national cohesion, echoing Obasanjo’s sentiment that the work of nation-building transcends elections and office tenure.
In his closing remarks, Obasanjo reiterated that Nigeria’s journey requires continuous input from all sectors — from politicians and civil servants to the youth and diaspora communities. “Leadership is not a title. It is a lifelong commitment,” he said. “Until Nigeria becomes the country we all dream of, none of us should rest.”
As Nigeria approaches the midpoint of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, Obasanjo’s message serves as both a reminder and a roadmap — that the vision of a prosperous nation must be actively pursued by all, especially those with the experience and means to influence change.