In a symposium honoring Prof. Babafemi Badejo, Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta urged Nigeria to leverage its resources to enhance its stature in trade, technology, and diplomacy. He emphasized prioritizing national interests and urged leaders to engage actively in the global order, reflecting on Nigeria’s historical challenges and future potential for development.
At a recent symposium in Lagos, Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta urged Nigeria to harness its substantial resources to enhance its role in international trade, technology, and diplomacy. The event honored Prof. Babafemi Badejo on his 70th birthday and featured the theme, “Politics is Interest: Interrogating the Role of Special Interests in Nigeria’s Development.” President Ramos-Horta emphasized the need for Nigeria and African leaders to assert themselves within the shifting global landscape.
President Ramos-Horta articulated that Nigeria should no longer be a pawn in international rivalries. Instead, he urged the country to harness its significant natural and human resources to shape its diplomatic and economic relationships, ensuring they are aligned with national development goals. He emphasized that Nigeria should prioritize its interests rather than rely on inadequate international aid which fosters dependency.
Highlighting Nigeria’s history marked by resilience, he explained how competing interests from political elites and multinational corporations have affected its development trajectory. He noted, “Nigeria must harness its wealth, its intellectual capital, human resources, and its abundant natural endowments to serve its people first.”
Drawing parallels with the “America First” policy, Ramos-Horta encouraged Nigeria to adopt a similar approach in prioritizing its interests, enhancing productivity, and fostering competition. He stated that this prioritization should not equate to harming other countries, as global economies are interconnected, and instabilities in one area can have widespread implications.
Following the president’s remarks, he commended Prof. Badejo for his invaluable contributions to nation-building and political thought, recalling their collaborative efforts in restoring constitutional order in Guinea-Bissau. Prof. Badejo expressed gratitude for the recognition and noted his plans to continue contributing to academic discourse, emphasizing the importance of public participation in society to meet collective interests.
In conclusion, President José Ramos-Horta’s dialogue at the symposium underscores the necessity for Nigeria to utilize its vast resources to assert its position in global trade, technology, and diplomacy. He advocates for a shift towards prioritizing national interests and fostering a development strategy that benefits the Nigerian populace directly. Moreover, the acknowledgment of Prof. Badejo’s contributions highlights the critical role of intellectual leadership in navigating complex political landscapes. Both leaders emphasize the interconnectedness of global economies and the importance of engagement in local and international affairs.
Original Source: nannews.ng
