ABOMINATION!!! How Can A Country Survive When Government Officials Are Richer Than Businessmen- Obi Shakes The Nation Again
Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), articulated the pressing need to confront corruption and criminality as essential strategies for propelling Nigeria’ s economic growth forward. His remarks came during the 21st CVL Annual lecture and International Leadership Symposium on Skills- Driven Entrepreneurship, held to commemorate Prof. Pat Utomi’s 68th birthday in Lagos.
Obi’ s address underscored the corrosive effects of corruption and criminal activities on professionalism and industriousness. He emphasized the pivotal role of the government in combatting these destructive forces to foster national development. In particular, Obi highlighted the dangerous precedent set when government officials amass wealth surpassing that of entrepreneurs and manufacturers. He urged for a concerted effort to dismantle corruption and institute a system that
rewards talent, skills, and hard work.
According to Obi, the economic landscape must be structured to empower individuals to thrive based on their merits and contributions. This, he argued, would create a conducive environment for economic prosperity and innovation.
In a panel discussion that followed, Dr. Alfred Okoigun, Founder/Group Managing Director of Arco Group Pic, echoed Obi’ s sentiments. Dr. Okoigun stressed the importance of government support for local production, urging Nigerians to elevate their skills to enhance their livelihoods and economic participation. He encouraged entrepreneurs to prioritize impact-driven business models over profit- maximizing endeavors.
Tunde Kehinde, Co-founder of Lidya, a digital fintech lender, emphasized viewing Nigeria through a business lens. He advocated for a strategic approach to managing the country’s growth, maintenance, and sustainability. Kehinde highlighted the abundance of opportunities within the Nigerian market capable of addressing the nation’s challenges and driving economic progress.
Kehinde emphasized the critical need for governmental clarity and direction to Inspire citizen engagement and chart a path toward national development. He underscored the importance of aligning governmental strategies with citizen aspirations to propel the nation to new heights of prosperity and success.
Overall, the discussions at the symposium emphasized the vital role of combating corruption, supporting local entrepreneurship, and fostering strategic planning for Nigeria’ s economic advancement. These insights underscored the imperative of collective action and visionary leadership in steering the nation toward a brighter future.