The Vice-Chancellor of Maranatha University, Prof Rufus Akinyele, has decried the challenges facing Nigeria, stating that they tend to undermine the country’s global positioning.
He said the “domestic challenges are limiting the influence of the country in international affairs.”
Akinyele stated this while reviewing a collection of essays in a compendium titled “Governance Crises and Contradictions in Nigeria’s Relations,” a festschrift in honour of the former Dean of the School of Postgraduate Studies, University of Lagos, Prof Solomon Akinboye.
The event took place at the Faculty of Social Sciences Lecture Theatre, University of Lagos, Akoka, according to a statement made available to The on Monday.
According to Akinyele, the country once played the role of a “big brother” on the African continent but has gradually lost that position due to internal challenges.
Reviewing the book, Akinyele noted that the exclusion of women from governance is largely a consequence of godfatherism and consensus candidacy.
The guest lecturer, Alade Fawole, speaking on the lecture titled “Nigeria–US Relations in an Unstable World Order,” urged Nigerians to recognise that the country’s sovereignty is under threat and that its protection rests largely in the hands of its citizens.
Fawole cautioned against the persistent practice of attacking and discrediting the government, warning that such actions could have long-term consequences for the nation.
“Nigerians must eschew the destructive practice of delegitimising their government and de-marketing their nation in the eyes of the rest of the world.
“It is unhelpful in the long run, and the passports we carry will not earn us respect in other countries.
“We must join hands to uphold and defend our sovereignty, no matter the internal grievances,” he said.
Speaking at the event, a Third Republic senator, Anthony Adefuye, congratulated Akinboye on retiring from active service without blemish.
Adefuye, who studied Mechanical Engineering at the university, commended the succeeding leadership of the institution for keeping the flag flying.
He said he is always proud of the students of the University of Lagos for distinguishing themselves in society.
Adefuye urged the current students of the university to work hard.