Former President Goodluck Jonathan says he convened the 2014 National Conference with the intention to create an environment for Nigerians to address issues pushing citizens towards divisive politics and sowing the seeds of discord.
Jonathan stated this in his remarks at the “2nd Igbo Nsukka Zik Annual Merit Award”, in memory of the first Nigerian President, Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe, on Tuesday in Abuja. The event was organised by Igbo Nsukka United Front, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) report.
At the event, Jonathan was honored with “the Zik’s Merit Award”.
He said said the inability to manage Nigeria’s diversity was a major stumbling block to the nation’s socio-economic development.
“When I convened the 2014 National Conference as President, my intention was to create an environment that would enable our citizens to dispassionately address those issues that are pushing us towards divisive politics and sowing the seeds of discord in our polity.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Sanwo-Olu Vows To Abolish All Financial Incentives For Ex-governors
“I believe that, in a complex and diverse country like ours, the journey of nationhood and march to greatness is not a sprint but a marathon.
“However, to get it right, we need to do much more to unite our people and integrate our society, in order to build a nation of selfless patriots and citizens, citizens as defined by the Greek philosophers.
“That is the type of country envisioned by our nationalists.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Jonathan: “If Not For God, I Would Have Been Buried Politically”
“That is the only way to turn our huge population, rich diversity and the outstanding resourcefulness of our people into a positive force that would transform and enhance the greatness of our dear country.
“I have no doubt in my mind that God Almighty has deposited in our land and in our citizens, the indefatigable spirit and creativity to unite, work and relate in a harmonious way and make our country great,” Jonathan said.
