To Develop as a Nation, Nigerians Must Change their Attitude – Jonathan
A former President of Nigeria, Goodluck Jonathan, says for Nigeria to develop as a nation, it is not by electing the best candidate but rather the attitude of citizens must change.
Jonathan stated this in Abuja on Tuesday, December 19, at the Public Presentation of the book, Development As Attitude; How National Progress Is Shaped By Leadership Philosophy and Citizens’ Orientation by Prof. Osita Ogbu.
He lamented that even if an angel is brought from heaven as a president to rule Nigeria, and the attitude of Nigerians does not change, the country may not move forward.
According to him, anybody worth leading Nigeria must be guided by a particular personal philosophy to have a successful tenure in office.
In his remarks, the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, regretted that the current hardship being faced by Nigerians is caused by people who don’t want the best for Nigeria.
Obi canvassed for a parliamentary system of government or something that looks similar to it.
The author, Professor Osita Ogbu, in the book, believes that development is about the evaluation of alternative values and choices. And leaders make these choices.
Ogbu says making the right choices and inspiring citizens to the difficult tasks of economic and social transformation are determined by the attitude, values, philosophy and knowledge of the leaders underlined by legitimacy, honesty, discipline, a certain fearless optimism and self-belief as it requires to mobilize citizens to overcome challenges and engineer progress.
The book was reviewed by Professor Jideofor Adibe who described it as “a book of philosophy of development.” He said the book will be a guide for policymakers, politicians, social scientists and development students in their studies.
Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, was represented by his Chief of Staff. Top government officials, Senators and members of the House of Representatives graced the occasion.
