Redefining Nigeria’s Political Landscape: The Legacy of Governance and Leadership
José Ramos-Horta reflects on Nigeria’s history of resilience shaped by competing political, corporate, and international interests, emphasizing the need for governance grounded in justice and equity. He recalls his relationship with President Goodluck Jonathan and highlights the importance of prioritizing Nigeria’s interests in a changing global landscape. The speech honors Professor Babafemi Badejo and calls for leadership focused on collective progress rather than elite interests, urging a reimagined approach to governance.
Nigeria’s historical narrative showcases resilience amidst competing interests, including those of political elites, multinational enterprises, and global influences, referred to by Professor Badejo as “external dynamics.” These interests have molded policies and economic priorities, impacting citizens’ lives. A shift toward a governance model based on justice, equity, and shared responsibility is imperative to break this cycle.
My relationship with President Goodluck Jonathan began at an African Union summit in 2013, where mutual respect and camaraderie developed. This connection was significant during my tenure as the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative in Guinea-Bissau. I recognized the need for an experienced West African partner, ultimately cultivating a lasting friendship with Jonathan.
In Guinea-Bissau, my chief of staff and I endeavored to restore constitutional order and facilitate clean elections, with Timor-Leste contributing significantly by funding the 2014 elections. As I honor Professor Babafemi Badejo’s legacy today, I acknowledge his invaluable insights into governance and political thought in Nigeria, reminding us of the paramount importance of structures that prioritize the well-being of the populace.
The symposium’s theme, “Politics is Interests,” resonates in a world where special interests often overshadow justice and the common good. Nigeria stands at a crossroads, needing to leverage its human resources and natural wealth, fostering a “Nigeria First” mentality that emphasizes productivity and competition while ensuring the welfare of its people.
Current global dynamics, marked by shifts in power and emerging economies such as BRICS and China’s ascendance, demand that Nigeria find its place. Rather than being a pawn in international power games, Nigeria must assert its role on the international stage, crafting policies that reflect its development aspirations and not merely reacting to external pressures.
Leadership in Nigeria and Africa must address systemic issues such as resource mismanagement and corruption, emphasized by Professor Badejo. To foster positive change, leaders must transcend elite interests and prioritize collective progress while ensuring that political power aligns with the needs of the populace.
As we honor Professor Badejo, we are called to reevaluate structures of power and governance, envisioning a world where political power is utilized for the greater collective good instead of favoring a privileged few. This reimagined leadership approach will focus on development, peace, human rights, and stability—a necessity for Nigeria’s future and the global community.
In conclusion, today’s gathering pays tribute to Professor Badejo’s intellectual contributions and his vision for good governance. Let us be inspired to pursue policies that advance true progress and collective welfare for all, thereby fulfilling the aspirations enshrined in human rights and sustainable development goals.
This speech underscores the importance of reorienting Nigeria’s political landscape to prioritize collective interests over elite agendas. It emphasizes the need for authentic leadership and a governance structure that reflects justice, equity, and development. Professor Badejo’s legacy serves as a catalyst for renewed commitment towards effective and inclusive governance in both Nigeria and the international arena.
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