Olusegun Obasanjo counters Ibrahim Badamosi Babagida: Nigeria's Youths can rule Nigeria.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has called on politicians in Nigeria to first reform themselves before talking about national reformation.

He also made a strong case for electronic-voting in Nigeria, which he said, would go a long way in correcting the errors of the past.

Obasanjo said he believes in the ability of the younger generation  to bring lasting political  reforms and sustainable development to Nigeria.

“One thing that is very bright and makes me happy in Nigeria is that the generation that are coming behind are very promising.’’

Obasanjo’s comment came on the heels of a statement credited to former President Ibrahim Babangida that Nigerian youths are incapable of leading the country. Obasanjo, who did not make reference to the statement, hinged his optimism on the ability of  Nigerian  youths.

Obasanjo made the remarks on Thursday in Washington D.C. at the Leo Sullivan Foundation Forum on Nigeria, while reacting to the removal of INEC chairman, Prof Maurice Iwu, whom he appointed in 2005.
Obasanjo said, “One thing that we need to reform in our own society is the politicians; we need to reform the politicians. With all due respect, if Jesus Christ will come to the world and be the chairman of INEC in Nigeria, any election he conducts will be disputed.’’

Okonjo-Iweala in the discussion, which was anchored by Amb. Andrew Young, the Chairman of the foundation, spoke on the theme: “Nigeria Today: Perceptions, Challenges and Opportunities’’, Okonjo-Iweala said the country must not neglect its youths whom she described as the untapped growth drivers of Nigeria’s economy.

She noted that Nigeria’s demographic map was full of promise if only it could be directed and managed effectively.

Source: www.vanguardngr.com