Nigeria's existence is a miracle, says Obasanjo

IN what appears an appraisal of burning national issues, former President Olusegun Obasanjo declared yesterday that Nigeria's existence as a united nation can best be described as a miracle.

Obasanjo spoke when he received at his residence in Abeoukta, Ogun State former Zambian leader Kennth Kaunda.

He said Kaunda was among those who fought against colonialism and apartheid, adding, "you are one of the warriors we will always appreciate."

Jokingly, the Nigerian told his guest that, "we have one thing in common, both of us have been to prison."

On Nigeria, he said it is a country where something is always happening. "Our land (Nigeria) is a country where there is always something happening. You wake up in the morning and may be because of some happenings, you will think that the country is going to break up but by evening all will be over and there will be jolly, jolly."

Kaunda, who was accompanied by Nigeria's Ambassador to Zambia, Mrs. Marcus Bello and her Zambian counterpart to Nigeria, Mr. Alex Cadman Luhila, is in Nigeria to attend the 50th birthday of Bello

Obasanjo thanked Kaunda for honouring Bello by attending her birthday celebration.

Earlier, Kaunda said Nigeria has a very important role to play in ensuring peace and political development of the Africa.

He commended Nigeria for its role in peace efforts and development of the continent so far but pleaded that it should not relent in its efforts.

The Zambian leader regretted that Nigeria had neglected the agriculture sector, which he said it solely depended on for its income in the past and pleaded, "Please go back to agriculture," he said.

Kaunda is convinced that Africa will get out of its myriad of problems and urged the people to be patient. "All countries have similar political, economic and social problems," he said.

The elder statesman ascribed Africa's problem to slavery and colonialism. "So, we don't expect immediate miracles, our prayer is that our good God will help us to grow, let us be patient," he said.

He praised Obasanjo for his immense contributions to the development of the Africa continent. "I have always been attracted to this country (Nigeria) because of its importance. It is unfortunate that the man (Umaru Musa Yar'Adua) you helped to become President is not in good health, we are praying that he will soon be well," Kaunda said.

He described Bello as his daughter and a good representative of Nigeria.

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Posted: at 26-04-2010 02:09 AM (14 years ago) | Hero

On Nigeria, he said it is a country where something is always happening. "Our land (Nigeria) is a country where there is always something happening. You wake up in the morning and may be because of some happenings, you will think that the country is going to break up but by evening all will be over and there will be jolly, jolly." Former President

So because Nigeria always bounced back why your friends should continue to destroy her the way they are doing.  Thank you Mr. Former President it is coming from your mouth ooo. This is the reason why you are residing scotch free from your corruption because at the end of the day Nigerians forget everything and move on with their life (Jolly Jolly). I wonder if the citizens are listening to your unspoken words. Am telling you, you and PJ Patterson cut from the same cloth. None betta herring none betta barrel.

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Posted: at 26-04-2010 02:56 AM (14 years ago) | Gistmaniac

So he is also expecting division some day,
Good to know.

Posted: at 26-04-2010 08:08 PM (14 years ago) | Gistmaniac

Abii?

Posted: at 26-04-2010 08:12 PM (14 years ago) | Gistmaniac

God surely loves us. He will sustain this country to the shame of our enemies.

Posted: at 26-04-2010 09:11 PM (14 years ago) | Newbie