Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed concerns about the youth unrest due to unemployment, warning that Nigeria might be “sitting on a keg of gunpowder”. He emphasized that the youth are restive because they lack skills, empowerment, and employment opportunities.
Obasanjo praised the Dangote Petroleum Refinery as a project that should inspire both Nigerians and foreigners to invest in Nigeria. He described it as a solution to the country’s economic challenges, highlighting the need for economic diversification and investor confidence.
The former president’s remarks followed allegations by Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group, who claimed that certain “mafias” are working to obstruct the $20 billion refinery. Obasanjo warned that those profiting from fuel importation would likely attempt to hinder the progress of the refinery.
He emphasized the need for the government to create more opportunities for the youth and address the country’s economic challenges. Obasanjo’s comments come as Nigerians continue to protest in the streets, expressing their grievances despite arrests and clampdown by the police and other security agencies.
