Jonathan Urges Nigerians to Stay and Build the Nation Instead of ‘Japa’

• Former President Goodluck Jonathan urges Nigerians to invest in their country instead of fleeing abroad, emphasizing collective responsibility for nation-building
• Jonathan highlights the importance of creating jobs and supporting the private sector to address Nigeria’s challenges and food insecurity

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and committed to overcoming the country’s challenges instead of fleeing abroad.

Speaking in Karu Local Government Area, Nasarawa State, during the commissioning of a soybean plant and refinery by the CSS Group and the birthday celebration of Prof. John Kennedy Opara, Jonathan emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in nation-building.

He stated, “The countries Nigerians are running to were built by people. We must invest in this nation and create jobs for our youths. This country belongs to all of us, and we must not abandon it.”

Bayelsa State Governor Duoye Diri echoed Jonathan’s sentiments, saying, “There is hope in Nigeria. No one will need to leave if we all support the private sector.”

African Development Bank (AfDB) President, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, however, highlighted Nigeria’s pressing food insecurity, attributing it to soaring food prices.

He called for increased food production, reduced import dependency, and greater support for local farmers. “Nigerian farmers can feed the nation. With bold programmes and policies, we can strengthen agricultural value chains and reduce food inflation,” Adesina said.

Adesina revealed that the AfDB is collaborating with the government on a $538 million programme for agro-industrial processing zones across eight states. The second phase will expand to 28 additional states, with a financing target of $1 billion.

Former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma added, “Africa thrives when Nigeria succeeds. Positive developments in Nigeria uplift the entire continent.”

The event drew dignitaries, including former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma, former Chief Justice of Nigeria Justice Walter Onnoghen, and representatives from Nasarawa State, showcasing unity in the quest for national progress.