President Ramos-Horta of Timor-Leste urged Nigeria to capitalize on its resources to advance in trade, technology, and diplomacy. Speaking at a symposium honoring Professor Babafemi Badejo, he emphasized the need for Nigeria to assert its interests and prioritize national development. Badejo intends to continue contributing to social issues through his writings post-retirement.
José Ramos-Horta, the President of Timor-Leste, has called for Nigeria to leverage its vast resources to establish a strong presence in international trade, technology, and diplomacy. His remarks were made during a symposium in Lagos honoring Professor Babafemi Badejo on his 70th birthday, emphasizing the importance of national priorities in shaping Nigeria’s global position.
The symposium, themed “Politics is Interest: Interrogating the Role of Special Interests in Nigeria’s Development,” highlighted Nigeria’s need to assert itself within a changing global landscape. Ramos-Horta urged that Nigeria should not merely be a participant in international rivalries but strive to define its own interests, moving away from dependency on minimal foreign aid.
He articulated that Nigeria must utilize its human intellect, abundant natural resources, and wealth for the benefit of its citizens, advocating the principle of “Nigeria First” akin to the “America First” ideology presented by former U.S. President Donald Trump. This approach should promote productivity and healthy competition while recognizing the interconnected nature of global economies, where issues in one region can affect others.
During the event, Ramos-Horta praised Professor Badejo for his significant contributions to nation-building and his long-standing friendship with him. He remarked on Badejo’s achievements in political thought and governance, emphasizing his role in facilitating key political events in West Africa aimed at restoring democratic order in Guinea-Bissau.
In a reflection on his future, Badejo expressed intentions to continue contributing to academic discourse through writing, particularly regarding the peace process in Somalia and issues related to Nigeria’s developmental challenges. He emphasized the importance of civic engagement and the necessity for individuals to assert their interests within society.
The symbiotic relationship between Nigeria’s rich resources and its strategic positioning in global affairs was underscored by President Ramos-Horta during a symposium honoring Professor Badejo. His advocacy for a ‘Nigeria First’ approach emphasizes the nation’s potential for self-determination in trade, technology, and diplomacy. As the dialogue continues, the role of committed leaders and scholars like Badejo remains critical in shaping Nigeria’s developmental trajectory.
Original Source: nannews.ng
