posted January 16, 2024
The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has emphasized the urgent need to address fundamental issues in Nigeria to avoid being forced into a reset.
Speaking during the 2024 Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration in Benin City, he acknowledged the sacrifice and bravery of fallen Nigerian heroes, emphasizing the importance of honoring their contributions to the peace and unity of the nation.
Governor Obaseki highlighted the pressing need to redesign and restructure the country to address its defects and set it on a path of growth and prosperity. He expressed gratitude for another year and an opportunity to remember those who sacrificed their lives for Nigeria’s peace and unity.
“We thank God for another year and opportunity to remember those people who have sacrificed their lives for the peace and unity of Nigeria.
“The people we are honoring today have paid the supreme price with their lives and it’s important not to forget their efforts. That is why this event is important and we should be sober about it.”
Obaseki pointed out the challenges facing the country, particularly the economic situation that has created a sense of hopelessness among citizens. He urged Nigerians to reflect on the current situation, learn from past mistakes, and work towards avoiding their repetition.
The governor’s call for urgent restructuring aligns with the broader national discourse on the need for reforms and changes in governance, economic policies, and social structures to address Nigeria’s challenges and promote sustainable development.
“This is an opportunity to reflect on the situation and crisis that resulted in the loss of those we are remembering today. It’s the right time as Nigerians to sit back and think very deeply about what is going on in the Country today so that we do not repeat some of the mistakes in the past that have led us to where we are today.
“It’s an opportunity for political leaders to reflect deeply, particularly given what is happening around us in West Africa. It’s time to stop pretending and deceiving ourselves and know that we must restructure Nigeria. Political leaders of Nigeria understand that it’s time to redesign this Country and failure to do so may lead to crisis; my prayer is that it doesn’t happen.”
Obaseki added, “We can’t continue this way as it’s time to release the energy of the young people in this nation, put more resources on the table and fund security services better so that we don’t lead ourselves into another crisis.
“As we remember the fallen heroes of the nation, we must ensure we put enough pressure on the political system to be more sensitive to what is going on in the Country and note that the most important assignment of the Government of Nigeria today is to redesign and restructure Nigeria as the fundamental defects need to be addressed in order for it not to be forced on us.”
The governor also inspected the warehouse for artefacts at the premises of the National Museum at Kings Square in Benin City, venue for the Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration, which is still under construction.
Other guests at the occasion include Secretary to Edo State Government, Osarodion Ogie Esq.; Chief of Staff to the Governor, Dr. Osaigbovo Iyoha; Oredo Local Government Chairman, Dr. Tom Obaseki, serving Commissioners, traditional and religious leaders, and other top government functionaries, amongst others.