Professor Ibrahim Agboola Gambari (CFR), a former Chief of Staff to the President and ex-Minister of Foreign Affairs, has called on Nigeria’s former political officeholders to foster an elite consensus to secure the nation’s stability and progress. Speaking during an appearance on Inside Sources with Laolu Akande on Channels Television, Gambari stressed the urgent need for unity among past and present leaders, urging them to prioritize the national interest over partisan divisions.
Speaking on Sunday, Gambari highlighted the unique responsibility borne by individuals who have served in high-ranking positions. “To become head of state by whatever means, you have had to transcend your ethnic and religious boundaries. By achieving that position, the entire country becomes your constituency,” he stated. “After having held such a privileged position in a nation of over 200 million people, it is incumbent upon such leaders to come together and ensure the nation’s stability and progress.”
Gambari lamented the lack of cohesion among Nigeria’s elites, especially those who have enjoyed the privileges of leadership. Drawing comparisons to practices in other nations, he urged Nigeria’s former leaders to prioritize national unity over political differences. “In other countries, leaders with political differences set them aside and intervene during critical times for the sake of their nations. We need to emulate that,” he stressed.
Expanding on the theme, he called for an elite consensus that includes not just former heads of state but also ex-ministers, ambassadors, and other influential figures. “Those who have been the most privileged in this country have a responsibility to protect and preserve what made them who they are. Unfortunately, some of those who have benefited the most are often the least committed to the stability and progress of Nigeria,” Gambari lamented.
He warned that partisan affiliations have sown unnecessary divisions, overshadowing the more significant shared interests that bind Nigerians together. “The future of Africa depends on the success of Nigeria,” he declared, emphasizing the country’s pivotal role on the continent.
Gambari also underscored the need for robust political education and effective party formation to foster a more informed electorate. “Closer to elections, political education becomes crucial. It’s everybody’s business to ensure that voters understand their role in nation-building,” he said.
Drawing from his illustrious career, which spanned service under five different Nigerian heads of state, Gambari attributed his success to prioritizing national interest above personal or partisan concerns. “I have been able to serve five heads of state as ambassador because I always put the interest of Nigeria above everything else.”
During the program, host Laolu Akande extended warm birthday wishes to the diplomat, who recently turned 80. Reflecting on his longevity, Gambari attributed his resilience and peace of mind to his philosophy of forgiveness. “I’ve never held malice against anyone, even those with whom I disagree. Life is too short to hold grudges; your enemies today could be your greatest admirers tomorrow,” he noted.
Recalling his early years in Ilorin, Gambari credited his disciplined upbringing and the foresight of his parents for shaping his character. “I grew up in Ilorin and went to school there. My parents, however, believed that staying in Ilorin might lead to distractions, so they sent me away to focus on my studies.”
