Obasanjo At 89 Urges African Leaders To Embrace Values-Driven Governance

Former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo, has urged African leaders to abandon personal interests and embrace a democratic system capable of delivering genuine good governance across the continent.

Obasanjo said leaders must rethink the model of democracy practised in Africa, especially the version inherited from colonial powers, stressing that it must be reshaped to reflect the continent’s realities and aspirations.

He made the call in Abeokuta, Ogun State, while delivering a lecture at an international colloquium titled “The Burden and Blessing of Leadership: Reflections from Africa to the World.” The event was held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library as part of activities marking his 89th birthday.

According to him, Africa’s governance crisis is largely rooted in weak institutions and leadership driven by personal influence rather than strong systems.

“We have produced extraordinary individual leaders like Nelson Mandela, Kwame Nkrumah, Julius Nyerere, Thomas Sankara and Samora Machel, but we have not consistently built institutional frameworks that sustain good governance beyond individuals,” he said.

He warned that when the fate of a nation depends solely on the character of one leader, the country remains vulnerable and unstable.

Obasanjo acknowledged that democracy may sometimes appear slow and imperfect but maintained that alternatives to democratic governance are far worse.

“Let us take democracy seriously—not as a system to manipulate for electoral advantage, but as a covenant with the people based on accountability, transparency, transformation and inclusive development,” he stated.

The former president also emphasised the need to strengthen democratic institutions, protect free expression and ensure judicial independence across African countries.

He urged leaders to build strong institutions capable of outlasting individuals, including independent courts, efficient civil services and universities that produce globally competitive graduates.

On continental development, Obasanjo highlighted the importance of economic integration, describing the African Continental Free Trade Area as one of the most significant developments for Africa in recent decades.

He said deeper integration would strengthen Africa’s global economic standing, attract investments, create jobs and boost the continent’s productive capacity.

Turning to Nigeria, Obasanjo cautioned against the growing influence of ethnic and religious politics, warning that such sentiments threaten the country’s unity.

“Nigeria is not merely a nation; it is an argument about what kind of people we are and what kind of future we can build together,” he said, stressing that the country cannot survive under ethno-religious domination.

He urged Nigerians to reject divisive narratives and embrace a shared national identity.

The elder statesman also noted that leadership is a collective responsibility that demands accountability and service to the people.

“As I cross my 89th year, I bow in gratitude, hope and continued commitment to the continent and the people I have spent my life serving. I will continue to serve until my last breath,” he added.