Picnews
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has disclosed that he turned down the idea of making former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir el-Rufai, his successor in 2007 because he believed the younger politician needed more time to mature politically and personally. Speaking during a symposium held in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Obasanjo explained that although el-Rufai was one of the bright minds in his administration and had demonstrated competence in governance, he felt that the former Federal Capital Territory Minister was not yet ready to handle the enormous responsibilities of leading a complex nation like Nigeria.
According to Obasanjo, the decision was not based on any personal differences but rather on his assessment of el-Rufai’s temperament and readiness for national leadership at the time. He stated that leadership of Nigeria required a level of patience, experience, and emotional maturity that he believed el-Rufai still needed to develop. Obasanjo recounted that his administration considered several capable individuals for succession, but he insisted that whoever would succeed him must be fully prepared for the challenges of national governance, especially in a country as diverse and demanding as Nigeria.
The former president further noted that el-Rufai later came to agree with his position, admitting that he indeed needed more time to grow before aspiring to such a high office. Obasanjo said this confirmation from el-Rufai reinforced his conviction that his decision at the time was the right one. He added that leadership, particularly at the presidential level, is not just about intellect or administrative skills but about character, patience, and the ability to manage people and situations with balance and maturity.
Obasanjo’s revelation sheds light on the behind-the-scenes considerations that shaped Nigeria’s political transition in 2007. It also offers insight into how he viewed leadership succession and the qualities he considered essential for national governance. His remarks come amid renewed discussions about political mentorship and the readiness of younger politicians to take up leadership roles in Nigeria’s evolving democracy.
