Engineer Seyi Makinde, the Governor of Oyo State, emphasized the importance of fostering a system that benefits all Nigerians, irrespective of tribe or religion.
Speaking at the 12th annual Zik Lecture held at Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka, Anambra State, Makinde urged citizens to focus on building a united and fair nation rather than contemplating separation based on regional differences.
Addressing the audience during the lecture themed “Reclaiming Zik’s World: Climate Justice and African Sustainable Development,” Makinde rejected the idea of splitting the country, saying that the focus should be on uniting Nigeria and, by extension, Africa.
He emphasized the need to build a nation that ensures fairness for all citizens.
“At this time of nationhood, we should not be talking about splitting the country. We should focus on building a country that is fair to all Nigerians,” the governor stated.
The Oyo State Governor also acknowledged the current challenges facing Nigeria, particularly the fragmentation of political activities along regional lines. He called for addressing these issues to promote national unity.
The event featured insights from notable speakers, including former President of Malawi, Dr. Joyce Hilda Banda, and the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, who discussed the causes of African problems.
Dr. Banda attributed Africa’s challenges to colonization, emphasizing the ongoing exploitation of the continent’s natural resources by former colonizers.
On the other hand, Peter Obi countered, stating that Africa’s problems stem from bad leadership rather than colonialism.
During the event, Obi stressed that colonialism is a bygone era, urging Africans to focus on resolving leadership issues for sustainable development.
The 12th annual Zik Lecture provided a platform for thought-provoking discussions on climate justice, African sustainable development, and the imperative of fostering unity and fairness for national progress..
