Former President Goodluck Jonathan has called on Nigerians to remain hopeful despite the nation’s challenges, emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility in nation-building.
Speaking in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, Jonathan addressed the growing trend of migration, popularly known as “Japa,” urging citizens to stay and contribute to Nigeria’s development.
The former president made this appeal during the commissioning of the Soybean Plant and Refinery of the CSS Group and the celebration of Prof. John Kennedy Opara’s birthday.
The event was attended by prominent figures, including former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma, Bayelsa State Governor Duoye Diri, and other dignitaries.
“Don’t Japa, We Must Build Nigeria” – Jonathan
In his remarks, Jonathan highlighted that the countries people migrate to were built by their own citizens. “You don’t need to Japa.
Those countries you are running to were built by people. We must build this country together and invest in it so that the youths can get jobs,” he said. “This country belongs to all of us, and we must not abandon it.”
Bayelsa State Governor Duoye Diri echoed this sentiment, urging Nigerians to have faith in the nation. “There is hope in Nigeria.
So those who want to Japa, please, don’t Japa. Nigeria is a blessed country. If we all key into what the private sector is doing, no one will Japa,” he added.
Tackling Hunger and Food Security
Addressing Nigeria’s food security challenges, African Development Bank (AfDB) President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina emphasized the urgent need to combat hunger caused by high food prices.
“The level of hunger in Nigeria is too high due to very high food price inflation,” he said, urging for greater support for local farmers and accelerated food production.
Adesina recalled the successes of local farmers during his tenure as Minister of Agriculture under President Jonathan, noting that the price of rice then was N8,000 per bag compared to today’s over N100,000.
He revealed that the AfDB, in partnership with the federal government, is implementing a $538 million program to develop special agro-industrial processing zones in eight states, with plans for a $1 billion expansion to cover all 36 states.
Africa’s Future Hinges on Nigeria
Former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma expressed optimism about Nigeria’s pivotal role in Africa’s development.
“If positive things happen in Nigeria, we are happy because Africa can only get it right when Nigeria gets it right,” he said.
Jonathan’s message serves as a powerful reminder of the need for collective effort in overcoming national challenges.
By staying and investing in the country, Nigerians can create a brighter future for themselves and future generations.
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