FORMER Governor of Lagos, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, has again dismissed calls for secession, noting that “we are Nigerians and we shall remain so”.
According to Tinubu, with the right reforms, the country can perfect good and effective governance.
Tinubu, who is the National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, spoke yesterday at a democracy lecture organised by the Nigerian Youth Congress with the theme “Nigerian Democratic System and Good Governance: The Journey So Far,” in Abuja.
The elder statesman said, “Nigeria seats at a crucial junction. Do we advance by doing what is right or do we stagnate by settling for what is easy?
“Our nation’s journey is one of the continuous struggles. We have struggled many times, yet never shall we fall. We are Nigerians and shall remain so.
“Of course, much work needs to be done. But it is time to recognise the points at which we fight ourselves. It demands further reforms and evolution.
“We need to continue to transform and improve so that we perfect good and effective governance in Nigeria for all citizens.”
Tinubu, who was represented by Hon. James Faleke, urged Nigerian youths to work together to address the nation’s challenges.
This, he said, could be done through dialogue and positive engagement with the political class.
He added, “Our youths are the engine by which our future and protection will be powered. Our journey to date will be further defined by your efforts and actions. This journey should not and cannot be a destructive process. We must manage the necessary change peacefully and democratically and ensure the continued unity of our nation, its people, and collective potentials.
“To perfect good and effective government is not going to come solely from the Nigerian elites. It will virtually come from the youths.
“This is not a time for you to falter. It’s a time for you to stand up and help push this great nation forward. It is time for Nigeria to evolve.”
