Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has made an emotional appeal to Nigerians and leaders across the country, expressing deep concern over the worsening state of poverty and hunger in the nation. Speaking passionately at a recent event, the elder statesman confessed, “Forgive me, this is the first time I’m crying with my own tears,” as he reflected on the growing hardship millions of Nigerians face daily.
Obasanjo described the current level of deprivation in parts of the country as “extremely, extremely hot,” warning that it threatens the very fabric of society. He urged citizens and leaders alike to understand the difference between relative poverty and the harsh reality of hunger.
“A man with a bicycle may be poor compared to someone with a car, but at least he is not hungry,” he explained. He stressed that the urgent problem facing many Nigerians today is not just poverty in comparison to others, but a complete lack of basic necessities, particularly food.
Recalling his childhood in a rural village, Obasanjo shared that although his family had little, hunger was never part of their daily struggle. “We had garri in the morning, garri in the afternoon, and maybe pounded yam at night. But today, some people don’t even know what they will eat tomorrow morning,” he lamented.
According to the former president, the root cause of hunger and poverty lies in the unfair distribution of resources. “God gave the world enough for everyone,” he said, “but the way we explore, exploit, and share what we have is unjust. That’s where poverty and hunger are born.”
He emphasized that finding real solutions starts with truly understanding the problem, its origins and consequences. Obasanjo called for systemic change, especially in how opportunities and natural wealth are managed in Nigeria.
He also highlighted education as a critical weapon in the fight against poverty. “Education is the most potent weapon against poverty,” he declared, adding that without it, both individuals and nations are at a disadvantage.
However, beyond education, Obasanjo underscored the need for values-based leadership. “We need leaders with character, morality, and a true sense of community,” he said. “Leadership begins at home and must reflect the African principle of ‘I am because we are.’”
He concluded by encouraging Nigerians never to underestimate human potential. “No one is born without potential,” he said. “Give people the chance to grow, and they will not only lift themselves, but their families and the entire nation too.”
This emotional outburst by one of Nigeria’s most influential leaders is a stark reminder of the urgent need for equity, compassion, and a renewed commitment to nation-building.
