Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has urged Nigerians to remain optimistic despite ongoing hardships, emphasizing the nation’s potential for greatness.
Olusegun Obasanjo speaking in an interview, encouraged citizens to hold on to hope while calling for collective efforts to move the country forward.
“We are going through hardship, but they should never lose hope. I am an incurable optimist about Nigeria, and we have a great country,” Olusegun Obasanjo said, envisioning a future where Nigeria becomes a land of prosperity rather than challenges.
Looking ahead to global politics in 2025, Obasanjo highlighted the significance of engaging with President-elect Donald Trump, who will be inaugurated on January 20 as the 47th President of the United States.
“Whether anybody likes it or not, the American people have decided that Trump will be their leader… We have to find a way of letting Trump know that what he calls shithouse is not entirely shithouse, that there are decent houses in Africa,” he stated, referring to controversial comments previously attributed to Trump about African nations.
Obasanjo emphasized the importance of diplomatic engagement with the incoming U.S. administration, advocating for mutual respect and cooperation to advance shared interests, especially in areas of global stability, prosperity, and security.
“We should make it known to Trump that working with Africa is in America’s enlightened interest… Give us the respect and dignity that is due to us, and let us work together for a peaceful, stable, and prosperous world,” he concluded.
The former president also extended his wishes for a prosperous 2025, expressing hope that every Nigerian family would experience a better year.
This optimistic vision and call for strategic diplomacy reflect Obasanjo’s enduring belief in Nigeria’s resilience and potential on the global stage.