Governor Hope Uzodimma, on Thursday, said that Nigeria is at a “critical juncture”, arguing that “the decisions we take now will determine the kind of country we leave for our children”.

Mr Uzodimma made the remark at the 15th edition of the Chief Emeka Anyaoku Lecture series on Good Governance, held in Owerri.

The Imo governor commended President Bola Tinubu’s reform agenda, saying he has shown courage by embracing accountability, transparency and structural reforms in the interest of the common good. He said such leadership requires making difficult but necessary decisions.

Mr Uzodimma also said the president’s approach reflected the ideals of elder statesman, Mr Anayoku, whom he described as an “epitome of good governance”. He further described Anyaoku, who recently turned 93, as a “symbol of integrity, service and visionary leadership”, adding that his life remains a blueprint for leaders in Nigeria and beyond.

The governor cited his role in election observation missions and interventions in political crises across several countries as exemplary. He recalled that under Mr Anyaoku’s leadership, Nigeria was suspended from the Commonwealth in 1995, following the annulment of the June 12 election and the execution of environmental activist Ken Saro-Wiwa and others.

He described the decision as “evidence of his principled stance, even when it affected his home country”. He also highlighted Mr Anyaoku’s contributions to dismantling apartheid in South Africa, including his engagements with former President Nelson Mandela.

The governor defined good governance as “leadership that delivers measurable improvements in the lives of citizens through accountability, rule of law, inclusiveness and responsiveness”. 

He said leadership must prioritise the common good over personal ambition and be willing to take difficult decisions that secure long-term national development.

He said that Mr Tinubu inherited economic challenges upon assuming office in May 2023 but opted for structural reforms rather than temporary measures.

“The president chose to rebuild Nigeria’s foundation rather than postpone the day of reckoning. Economic indicators, such as foreign reserves, GDP growth and crude oil production are improving, while inflation is gradually easing,” he said.

(NAN)