President Ramos-Horta of Timor-Leste calls on Nigeria to prioritize its trade, technology, and diplomacy at a symposium celebrating Prof. Babafemi Badejo. He emphasizes the need for Nigeria to define its own interests and utilize its resources for national development, while also reflecting on Badejo’s contributions to political discourse in Nigeria.
President Ramos-Horta of Timor-Leste has called on Nigeria to utilize its extensive resources for advancing in areas such as international trade, technology, and diplomacy. His remarks were made during a symposium honoring Prof. Babafemi Badejo’s 70th birthday in Lagos, emphasizing the theme, “Politics is Interest: Interrogating the Role of Special Interests in Nigeria’s development.”
He urged Nigerian and African leaders to proactively shape their roles in the global context rather than being passive participants. He emphasized, “Nigeria must define its interests, not have them dictated by others,” highlighting that the country should leverage its significant human and natural resources to avoid reliance on international aid, which fosters dependency.
Ramos-Horta stressed the importance of prioritizing national development and suggested that Nigeria focus on its interests and productivity while maintaining competitive global partnerships. He remarked that the interconnectedness of global economies necessitates a responsible approach to Nigeria’s growth that does not adversely affect other nations.
In reflecting on Badejo’s contributions, Ramos-Horta described him as a notable scholar whose insights have enriched Nigeria’s political discourse. He acknowledged their longstanding friendship and collaboration in restoring democratic governance in Guinea-Bissau and praised Badejo’s work in global affairs.
Badejo, in turn, expressed his intention to continue contributing through writing and research post-retirement, indicating future projects on the peace process in Somalia and Nigeria’s federal character issues. He concluded by urging individuals to engage actively in societal interests.
Ramos-Horta’s message highlights the need for Nigeria to assert itself in the global arena by prioritizing trade, technology, and diplomacy. The emphasis on self-defined interests and national development is crucial for leveraging the country’s unique resources effectively. In parallel, the recognition of Prof. Badejo’s contributions underscores the importance of intellectual discourse in shaping Nigeria’s future.
Original Source: nannews.ng
