In a recent interview, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, a renowned academic and business figure, shared his insights on various issues affecting Nigeria, including the current state of governance under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, economic policies, challenges in the aviation sector, and the integration of the Igbo nation.
Regarding President Tinubu’s administration, Prof. Okonkwo expressed concerns about inconsistencies and policy reversals, emphasizing the need for bold leadership and inclusive governance to address Nigeria’s pressing challenges. He highlighted the importance of tapping into the expertise and potential of diverse stakeholders across the country to navigate through the country’s current difficulties effectively.
Prof. Okonkwo criticized certain economic policies, such as the focus on reducing money in circulation by raising interest rates, questioning their effectiveness and impact on the real sector. He also raised concerns about the handling of forex allocation and its impact on industries like aviation, where access to foreign currency is vital for operations.
In discussing the challenges facing the aviation sector, Prof. Okonkwo pointed out the detrimental effects of forex scarcity on airline operations, leading to a significant reduction in fleet size and operational capacity. He highlighted the urgent need for government intervention to address the sector’s woes and ensure its sustainability, emphasizing the critical role of aviation in driving economic growth and national security.
Regarding the integration of the Igbo nation into the Nigerian polity, Prof. Okonkwo emphasized the importance of equity, justice, and fairness in governance. He criticized marginalization and unequal representation of the Igbo people in key political appointments, calling for a more inclusive approach to nation-building that recognizes and respects the contributions of all ethnic groups.
Prof. Okonkwo also addressed internal dynamics within the Igbo community, acknowledging the existence of genuine leaders advocating for Igbo interests while cautioning against pretentious individuals seeking personal gain at the expense of their people. He called for unity and discernment among Igbo leaders and the populace to identify and support genuine advocates for the progress of the Igbo nation within the context of a united Nigeria.