I know talks in this regard should be ongoing between three nations leading the way.
Nigeria with its oil and gas and other resources, its vast population and commercial infrastructure can add much to any economic cooperation. Niger has uranium for energy and other uses as well as other valuable mineral deposits. Guinea has bauxite and iron ore of the highest quality and of plenteous supply. Both of these minerals are vital to industrial development. Guinea also has other rare earth minerals. Its hydroelectric capacity is large and can be harnessed for the good of the region.
I foresee these three forging organic partnerships that will amend investment, commerce and manufacturing for their mutual benefit.
I mention this because what three can do, the entire continent can do even more, if we have the mind for it.
History commands it because Africa is where the next great economic step will be taken. The question is whether that step will be taken on our soil by our own foot or by a foreign one.
In conclusion, Bala Usman could have combined his royal lineage with his academic erudition to enjoy the high and easy life.
He could have been part of any government or ruling clique that suckled itself on toil, blood and patience of the people. Bala chose to side with the masses. It is our duty now to side with him.
Bala Usman was a pathfinder whose analyses and ideas were more than brilliant. They were true.
He warned we must claim our identity by forging the institutions and political economic processes that promote our interests and ensure our future. The reality of our economic situation does not mock his words. It reveals their utter prescience.
We must emulate Bala Usman. This requires that we shirk conventional wisdom to reform our political economy. If we continue the current path, we will remain as we are.
It is a mere walking in place while more aggressive nations change the world to fit their image.
As we meet, powerful nations entertain unprecedented treaties forming large commercial and financial blocs and combines that will make it more difficult for nations like Nigeria to realize the dream of industrialization.
If we cast our fate to the wind by saying that we shall be subservient to the free market, that market will be free to enchain us.
We would have flung aside our ability to shape our destiny.
The well-being of Nigeria will be given to others to determine. We will be a sovereign nation on the map but not in economic function.
Bala Usman seemed to know this day would come. He sought to prepare us for it. For a better Nigeria, I dedicate myself to the same fight. That is why I outlined two imminent decisions that must be had now –
Do we choose the good of the people over the rationale of austerity?
Do we better plan and guide our economy or allow happen-stance or the strategies of others to rule us?
I know how Bala Usman would answer these questions. I join in his response. I ask that you join him as well. What I have said here is more than talk. It is a call to action.
Thank you for listening.
Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu
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