In a recent interview with Channels Television, former Nigerian military President, Ibrahim Babangida, has spoken out about why the military will not interfere in Nigerian politics again. Babangida emphasized that military interference in the past had hindered Nigeria’s progress towards true federalism, and stated that the era of military involvement in politics has come to an end.
Babangida acknowledged that military rule had undermined the democratic process, stating, “Such things happen, but I believe it will not happen again because Nigerians are becoming more interested in becoming a truly democratic nation in Africa and such thing, I don’t think it will happen.”
He also highlighted the steps he took during his time in power to free the economy and promote the private sector as the key driver of the country’s economic growth.
However, Babangida stressed the importance of giving more powers to the states, advocating for a restructuring of the country. He stated, “I believe in restructuring, devolution of powers to the states to give them more powers and that means you are going to give them more resources to run their own affairs so that we run a federal government the way federation is run all over the world.”
Addressing the issue of mass emigration and brain drain, Babangida suggested that the Nigerian government should create an enabling environment that would motivate citizens to work for their country in the same way they enjoy working for other countries.
Babangida’s remarks provide insight into the shifting mindset of the Nigerian military and its commitment to upholding democratic values. As Nigeria continues to strive towards true federalism and the empowerment of its states, the words of its former military leader signal a new era of political stability and national development.
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