Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has praised the League of Northern Democrats for their initiative in forming the organization but emphasized the need for it to transition from a regional focus to a broader national perspective.
Obasanjo made these remarks during a meeting with a 20-member delegation from the League, led by its chairman, former Kano State Governor Sen. Ibrahim Shekarau, at his Presidential Library Complex in Abeokuta yesterday.
In his statement, Obasanjo expressed, “Whenever you evolve into a League of Nigerian Democrats, I invite you to return to me, and I will gladly serve as your patron. I share your concerns regarding the current state of Nigeria, and if you become a national coalition, I will join your efforts, even if my participation is limited due to my advancing age.”
The former president conveyed his confidence in the delegation, citing their caliber as a promising sign for the group’s potential impact.
He expressed gratitude to Shekarau for his dedication and acknowledged the group’s effort to visit Abeokuta despite the challenging economic climate facing the nation. He also commended Dr. Umar Ardo for his vision in organizing the League.
Earlier in the meeting, Shekarau had informed Obasanjo that the delegation sought to benefit from his extensive experience in governance and leadership.
In his closing remarks, the group’s Secretary, Emmanuel Jime, expressed gratitude for President Obasanjo’s life and contributions, describing him as one of the most nationalistic and unifying figures in Nigeria today.
