Obasanjo: Nigeria's Poverty Unjustified by Resources

Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo asserted during an interview on C-Suite Cafe, hosted by Ikem Okuhu, that Nigeria has no justification for its poverty given its vast natural and human resources. He attributed part of the country's economic struggles to policies that favor the importation of goods that could be produced domestically, which he believes undermines local farmers and producers.

Obasanjo questioned why Nigeria, endowed with fertile land, water, and a large population, continues to grapple with poverty. He argued that the nation’s agricultural potential should be recognized as a significant economic asset rather than relying heavily on foreign imports.

He recalled an experience as chairman of the African Union, where he and John Kufuor, then chairman of the Economic Community of West African States, noted that Guinea-Bissau, despite its fertile land, depended on imported food, exemplifying a broader issue affecting Nigeria's economy.