A former managing director of the Nigeria Airways, Major-General Olu Bajowa (rtd), has urged those contemplating Nigeria’s break-up to discard the idea, saying the country’s unity is not negotiable. Bajowa said creating another country out of Nigeria would be suicidal and would remain a dream that would never be realised.
He, therefore, advised those agitating for the country’s break-up to sheathe their swords and end their demand for Biafra. The former Nigeria Airways boss stressed that Nigeria would remain one indivisible nation, despite its diversity. Bajowa, who spoke at a quiet ceremony to mark his 76th birthday, also commended Gen. Buhari and the Nigerian military for the victory recorded recently over insurgency in Nigeria.
He said, “Our strength is in our diversity. Any thought of break-up will be suicidal. Dialogue, compromise, mutuality and above all patriotism, are the panacea.” The retired Army general expressed pride over the commitment and determination of members of the Nigerian Armed Forces to combat insurgency, which he described as a threat to the security and territorial integrity of Nigeria. He described the security and economic challenges facing the nation as temporary and expressed gratitude to God for protecting his life, particularly, throughout his military career.
Bajowa prayed for President Muhammadu Buhari and Nigeria, expressing optimism that the nation would prevail over the current economic and security challenges. He commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their “courage, resilience, doggedness and gallantry” in maintaining peace and order in the nation under the leadership of President Buhari.
Bajowa stressed the need for continued peaceful co-existence among Nigerians and paid tributes to the fallen heroes, who made the supreme sacrifice in keeping Nigeria united. He described President Buhari as “a tested General with sound military credentials”. According to him, Nigeria is endowed with sufficient natural and human resources to develop the nation and for the empowerment of women and the youths.
He further prayed to God to grant President Buhari and others in positions of authority in the country the wisdom and tenacity to lead the nation out of the present economic recession.
