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Nigeria needs solutions, not comparisons – Obi
Peter Obi, a former presidential candidate, has attacked President Bola Tinubu for his recent remarks that minimised Nigeria's problems by drawing comparisons to other nations.
President Tinubu stated on Monday that Nigeria is not the only country in the world experiencing poverty while hosting a delegation from the National Assembly to celebrate Eid-el-Kabir.
"Yes, there is poverty; there is suffering in the land," the president declared during his speech in Lagos. Although we are not the only ones dealing with these issues, we still need to address them.
In response to the X.com statement on Friday, Obi urged Nigeria's leaders to provide real solutions to the country's many problems rather than just recognising them.
Obi expressed regret that Nigeria is beset by poverty, insecurity, hunger, poor education, high infant mortality, corruption, unemployment, and a wide income gap between the rich and the poor.
He expressed disappointment that those in positions of leadership frequently minimise the situation by drawing comparisons between Nigeria's struggles and those of other nations, rather than offering a clear plan to address these issues.
"The issues confronting Nigeria are widely recognised by all Nigerians," he declared. We have high infant mortality, corruption, unemployment, the widest income gap between the rich and the poor, the highest perceived level of corruption, inadequate infrastructure and healthcare, high infant mortality, and more. We are also the world's centre of poverty, among the most insecure and hungry people on the planet.
"Hearing those in authority, who were employed to deal with our issues, say things like 'we are not the only ones struggling with poverty and hunger,' is depressing."
Obi underlined that rather than generalisations that minimise their experiences, Nigerians require a comprehensive strategy to address the nation's particular problems.
He emphasised that in times of crisis, a true leader offers direction, counsel, solutions, and assurance, giving the example of a pilot who not only warns passengers of turbulence but also reassures them of their safety.
"We need to hear a comprehensive plan of action to tackle our unique struggles," he stated, rather than just admitting that other nations face comparable difficulties.
"Instead of making disparaging comparisons to our situation, we need to address these problems with specific solutions and a clear vision. I implore people in positions of authority to provide real answers rather than just a gentle reminder that other people have similar problems.
Obi implored leaders to present concrete remedies, not mere reminders that others face similar challenges.
He emphasised that having a clear vision and a plan for overcoming challenges is essential for visionary leadership and a characteristic of developing countries.
"Instead of generalisations that minimise our experiences, we require a thorough strategy to address our unique problems. In times of crisis, a true leader offers assurance, solutions, direction, and guidance.
This is the distinguishing feature of visionary leadership and a characteristic of developing countries. They provide a road map for conquering challenges rather than just restating the obvious.
"Much like a pilot, who assures passengers that they will take all reasonable steps to ensure a safe flight, even in the event of turbulence.
Only then will we be able to start believing that our nation is in capable hands, working towards a brighter future for all Nigerians.”