Obasanjo warns of global conflicts, says 92 countries fighting 58 wars

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Monday expressed concern about the increasing global conflicts, revealing that 58 wars involving 92 countries are currently ongoing.

Obasanjo also likened former Nigerian Head of State, Yakubu Gowon, to former British leader and Prime Minister Winston Leonard Spencer-Churchill, who led Britain to victory in the Second World War.

The former Nigerian leader spoke in Abuja at the opening ceremony of a four-day International Conference of the African Biblical Leadership Initiative themed “Value-based leadership model for Africa.”

According to the Global Peace Index 2024, as of June this year, there were 56 conflicts—the most since World War II—with 92 countries involved in these conflicts beyond their borders, more than at any time since the inception of the GPI.

The organisation revealed that the global economic impact of violence in 2023 was $19.1 trillion, or $2,380 per person, noting that expenditure on peacebuilding and peacekeeping totaled $49.6 billion, representing less than 0.6 per cent of total military spending.

Obasanjo expressed concern that with the increasing number of conflicts and participating countries, the world may be inadvertently sliding toward World War III.

He called on religious leaders to continue praying for peace and unity across nations.

“For me, we have a problem in the world. Experts said we have 58 wars going on in the world and 92 countries involved directly or indirectly. That is half of the countries in the world, yet they say we have no third world war when half of the countries are directly or indirectly involved,” Obasanjo said.

The ex-president, while admonishing leaders to embrace value-based leadership rooted in honesty, integrity, and selflessness, said the world is presently facing a leadership crisis.

However, he warned that all the attributes and principles of leadership would amount to nothing without courage.

Describing Gowon, who recently turned 90, as Nigeria’s Churchill, Obasanjo argued that many leaders are not appreciated by their people while alive.

Gowon was Nigeria’s head of state from 1966 to 1975, ruling during the controversial Civil War.

She also called on leaders to embrace a value-based leadership model that reflects the teachings of Jesus Christ, which she said is built on justice, integrity, and wisdom.

Tinubu made this statement on Monday at the opening ceremony of the International Conference of the African Biblical Leadership Initiative in Abuja.

READ ALSO: 20m out-of-school children potential Boko Haram recruits, Obasanjo warns

The First Lady, represented by Chief Executive Officer of the African Union Development Agency-New Partnership for Africa’s Development (AUDA-NEPAD) Nigeria, Gloria Akobundu, stressed the need for leaders to embrace a value-based leadership model that honours God and promotes the well-being of all.

“To our spiritual fathers, I urge you to build and foster peace and development as well as pray for the government. Let us not curse, insult, or castigate the government, but rather speak the truth to the leaders and speak to the conscience of our citizens.

“Let us not equate ourselves to God, nor take the place of God, knowing fully well that God can use anybody to achieve His purpose and fulfil His agenda here on Earth,” the First Lady stated.

The former senator further advocated for policies that protect the rights of the marginalised, combat corruption, promote transparency, and ensure equal opportunities for all.

Noting that the value of justice is the foundation of godly leadership, she said leaders must ensure fairness, equality, and protection for all, especially the vulnerable.

Tinubu added: “The value of integrity is the backbone of trustworthy leadership. It involves being honest, transparent, and accountable. Leaders with integrity demonstrate consistency between words and actions, uphold ethical standards, and take responsibility for their own actions.

“The value of wisdom is essential for effective leadership. It involves seeking God’s guidance and applying biblical principles. Wise leaders seek counsel from God’s word and wise advisers, make informed decisions, and prioritise long-term benefits over short-term gain.

“The value of social harmony is vital for building strong, thriving communities. Leaders who promote social harmony foster unity among diverse groups, encourage constructive dialogue, and promote reconciliation and forgiveness.”

Delivering the keynote address, former Chief Justice of South Africa, Mogoeng Mogoeng, lamented that Africans have allowed the institutionalisation of mediocrity for too long, urging citizens to vote for leaders who value excellence.

Noting that some challenges need to be addressed spiritually, he said, “Anyone who came to resolve such a problem by physical means is only playing ostrich.”

“The challenge our continent demands is that we stand with God so that we avoid deeds that lead to our destruction.”

The President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Daniel Okoh, noted that leadership is not just a position of authority but a responsibility to serve with integrity and purpose.

“With our challenges, we are provided with a unique example from our faith. The need for leaders with values has never been more critical than now. We face many challenges, ranging from insecurity, but it is with the strength of our faith that we can confront these issues. By abiding by the Bible, we can bring about good leadership. As we strive to uplift our nation, let our thoughts and actions be guided by what is admirable,” he stated.