Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has urged Nigerians to embrace a shared sense of responsibility for the nation’s future, warning that real progress will remain out of reach unless citizens work together to tackle the country’s challenges.
He made this call on Thursday during the 6th Annual Colloquium organised to celebrate the 65th birthday of Itua Ighodalo, founder of Trinity Church, where discussions centred on the theme, “The Future of Nigeria.”
Represented at the event by Adedeji Daramola of the Olusegun Obasanjo Leadership Institute, the former president emphasised that building the nation is a collective task that requires participation from all segments of society. He noted that expecting change without unity and deliberate effort is unrealistic, stressing that every Nigerian—from traders to professionals and political leaders—has a role to play in shaping the country’s direction.
Obasanjo maintained that no external force will solve Nigeria’s problems unless its citizens come together to address them, adding that while leadership is important, widespread involvement and accountability remain key to national development.
He also highlighted the importance of integrating young people into governance and development, describing them as central to the country’s future. According to him, Nigeria’s large youth population presents a major advantage that should be harnessed through innovation and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.
Other speakers at the event shared similar concerns about the nation’s path and called for urgent reforms. Economist Eghosa Osagie advocated for increased local production, cautioning against reliance on imported goods. Meanwhile, Opeyemi Adamolekun of Enough is Enough Nigeria criticised the commercialisation of politics, describing it as overly transactional. Technology investor Iyinoluwa Aboyeji pointed to structural imbalances in digital infrastructure, noting that connectivity remains largely concentrated in Lagos.
The gathering also attracted prominent personalities, including Sam Amuka, Folorunsho Alakija, and Donald Duke, among others, who came together to honour Ighodalo.
Participants at the colloquium agreed that Nigeria is at a crucial turning point, where decisive action, inclusive governance, and strategic investment in youth and infrastructure will play a defining role in determining the country’s future in a competitive global environment.