President José Ramos-Horta of Timor-Leste urged Nigeria to leverage its resources for growth in trade, technology, and diplomacy during a symposium for Prof. Babafemi Badejo. He called for Nigeria to assert its interests rather than be influenced by external factors. He emphasized national development and active citizen engagement in governance as crucial for confronting Nigeria’s challenges.
President José Ramos-Horta of Timor-Leste recently emphasized the necessity for Nigeria to effectively utilize its abundant resources to enhance its standing in international trade, technology, and diplomacy. His remarks were made during a symposium celebrating the 70th birthday of Prof. Babafemi Badejo in Lagos, centered on the theme of the influence of special interests on Nigeria’s development.
Ramos-Horta urged both Nigerians and African leaders to proactively engage in the shifting global framework. He stressed that Nigeria, rather than being a victim of international conflicts, should capitalize on its potential to foster trade and diplomatic partnerships aligned with its national development objectives. He stated, “Nigeria must define its interests, not have them dictated by others.”
He further advised leaders to focus on domestic advancement, drawing on Nigeria’s resilience and the historical challenges posed by competing political and economic interests. He remarked on the necessity for Nigeria to utilize its wealth, intellectual prowess, and natural resources for the benefit of its own populace, asserting the need for a nationalistic approach akin to the “America First” ideology promoted by Donald Trump.
Ramos-Horta asserted that prioritizing Nigeria does not require undermining other nations, as global interdependence means that economic issues and instabilities in resource-rich regions often reverberate worldwide. He acknowledged Prof. Badejo’s significant contributions to nation-building and described him as a valued ally, whose work has significantly shaped Nigeria’s political landscape.
Reflecting on his future after retirement, Badejo expressed a desire to continue writing and addressing issues such as the complexities of federal governance in Nigeria. He underscored the importance of public engagement in governance, stating that citizens must advocate for their interests actively.
This symposium highlighted the critical intersection between politics, trade, and societal needs in Nigeria’s ongoing development.
In conclusion, President Ramos-Horta’s address underscores the importance of Nigeria taking initiative in defining its own developmental interests in an evolving global landscape. His call for a national priority on trade and diplomacy resonates with the need for Nigeria to harness its capabilities for domestic benefit. Furthermore, Prof. Badejo’s legacy and his advocacy for political engagement highlight the necessity for societal involvement in shaping governance and national policy.
Original Source: nannews.ng
