José Ramos-Horta’s speech at Professor Femi Badejo’s birthday highlights Nigeria’s historical challenges shaped by competing interests of elites and global powers. Emphasizing a governance model that prioritizes public welfare over special interests, it advocates for a ‘Nigeria First’ approach. The speech reflects on the need for effective leadership and collaboration in addressing global disparities while inspiring hope for a just and equitable society.
Nigeria’s history reflects resilience shaped by competing interests of political elites, multinational corporations, and global powers, as noted by Professor Badejo as “external dynamics.” These influences dictate economic policies, priorities, and the fate of individuals. This reliance on such interests is unsustainable; a new governance architecture focusing on justice and equity is urgently needed.
A personal narrative highlights my positive relationship with former President Goodluck Jonathan, established during an African Union summit in 2013. Despite delays within the Summit’s proceedings, I met with Jonathan for a meaningful discussion before his official meetings began. This encounter initiated a lasting friendship that proved beneficial in various leadership engagements throughout West Africa.
Upon my arrival in Guinea-Bissau as the UN’s Special Representative, I worked closely with my Chief of Staff, who helped facilitate crucial meetings with regional leaders. Together, we aimed to enhance democratic practices, restoring constitutional order, which required significant resources, including major contributions from my home country, Timor-Leste, towards Guinea-Bissau’s 2014 elections.
In celebration of Professor Babafemi Adesina Badejo, his impressive contributions to political thought and governance are acknowledged. The symposium theme, “Politics is Interests,” is fitting, reflecting an era where special interests dominate governance at the expense of the common good. We must prioritize the people’s welfare over special interests in developing governance frameworks.
Nigeria should prioritize its wealth, including intellectual and natural resources, to serve its citizens. Emulating Donald Trump’s “America First” mantra, Nigerian governments should adopt a “Nigeria First” strategy that fosters productivity and promotes healthy competition, ultimately benefiting the populace. This approach must not infringe upon the rights of others globally as our economies are interdependent.
Today’s power structures reflect inequitable global dynamics, and institutions meant to ensure justice and stability are failing. As I expressed previously, the UN Security Council is outdated, allowing conflicts — like those in Ukraine and Gaza — to persist unchecked. Nigeria is susceptible to these dynamics, needing to prioritize its national interests effectively within this complex global order.
As global alignments shift — with rising influences like BRICS and the emergence of China — the narrative that China poses a threat to the US is misguided. Healthy global competition should inspire innovation and collaboration rather than conflict. It’s crucial for the US, Europe, and China to focus on alliances that benefit all, rather than divisions that serve narrow interests.
Leadership plays a vital role in overcoming deficiencies in governance. Badejo’s work emphasizes combating corruption and improving resource management, which are vital for political progress. During my time in Guinea-Bissau, developing strategies for improvement required addressing these leadership shortfalls. African nations, particularly Nigeria, must leverage their resources, defining their interests rather than depending on external assistance.
Advocating for a vision of “utmost freedom”—where development, human rights, and governance coexist harmoniously—aligns with Badejo’s philosophies. This concept is a synthesis of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Sustainable Development Goals, reinforcing that leaders must prioritize the populace’s needs for progress.
As we recognize Professor Badejo today, we are inspired to re-evaluate the nature of political power and prioritize governance that serves broader societal interests. His legacy reminds us of the importance of leading with integrity, aiming for a just society where everyone thrives.
May God bless us all.
In honoring Professor Babafemi Badejo, this speech emphasizes the need for a governance framework prioritizing justice and equity over elite interests. It underscores Nigeria’s potential to reshape its trajectory by defining its national interests and improving leadership quality. Ultimately, the vision of ‘utmost freedom’ must guide future governance, ensuring inclusivity and collective progress.
Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com
