Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has reminded Nigerians of a time when the country wielded significant influence on the global stage. Speaking on Monday during the Presidential Youth Mentorship Retreat organized by the Youth Development Centre of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, Obasanjo recalled that during his tenure, the United States under President Jimmy Carter would not take major actions in Africa without notifying Nigeria first.
“They are not asking for permission, but they always notify us,” Obasanjo said, emphasizing the strategic importance of Nigeria in African diplomacy. He highlighted that Nigeria’s voice once carried considerable weight both on the continent and in international relations.
Context Amid Recent U.S. Remarks
Obasanjo’s comments come amid reactions to statements attributed to former U.S. President Donald Trump, suggesting that the United States might deploy troops to Nigeria if the Federal Government fails to address killings linked to extremist groups. The Nigerian Federal Government has rejected this suggestion, noting that insecurity affects all regions and communities and that ongoing measures are being implemented to tackle these challenges. Analysts say such remarks underscore Nigeria’s ongoing struggle to balance internal security with its historical role as a regional power.
Restoring Nigeria’s Global Respect
Reflecting on Nigeria’s post-independence history, Obasanjo said the country initially enjoyed global recognition as a giant of Africa but lost credibility in the years following independence. He credited himself and the late Gen. Murtala Mohammed with restoring Nigeria’s international standing through strong leadership, strategic foreign policy, and efforts to make Nigeria a key player in African affairs.
“At independence, the world sees Nigeria as a giant. Soon after, we lose that. When Murtala and I come in, we bring it back,” he said, highlighting the nation’s past influence in global diplomacy.
Call to Youth Leadership
Addressing young Nigerians directly, Obasanjo urged them to be positively disruptive and take active leadership roles instead of waiting indefinitely for older generations to step aside. He stressed that youth empowerment is essential for the country’s progress.
“You have the numbers. But numbers only matter when you use them,” he said, encouraging the next generation to embrace innovation, strategic thinking, and civic engagement. He warned that leaving governance entirely to older leaders could result in inheriting a weakened nation with limited opportunities for growth and development.
Obasanjo’s remarks underscore Nigeria’s historical influence in global politics while calling on the youth to take decisive action in leadership and governance. By recalling Nigeria’s prominence in U.S.-Africa relations and emphasizing the potential of young Nigerians, he reinforced the importance of a proactive approach to national development, security, and international diplomacy.
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