Former Minister of Information, Prof. Jerry Gana, has criticised the current leadership in Nigeria, lamenting what he described as a lack of initiative and innovative programmes to address the nation’s challenges.
Speaking in Abuja on Monday as Chairman at the 25th Anniversary of the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) and the commemoration of the 2025 International Peace Day, Gana stressed that leadership must be enlightened, compassionate, and driven by ideas.
“Our leaders are no longer thinking. No more initiative. No more programmes. Otherwise, a nation like Nigeria, blessed with immense resources, would not be experiencing the harsh realities we face today,” he said.
He decried the worsening economic hardship, noting that the instability of prices has made life increasingly difficult for ordinary citizens. “I don’t love going to the market again in Nigeria. Prices change almost every other day. Things are very, very difficult,” he lamented.
Gana urged leaders to pursue fairness and justice to prevent disputes that threaten peace. “Peace is justice in action. Peace is leadership with integrity. Peace is equitable distribution and fairness. Wherever there is injustice, there will be conflict,” he warned.
The former minister further emphasised that lasting peace goes beyond the absence of violence, calling it “the promotion of human dignity” anchored on justice, equity, and fairness.
Also speaking, Director-General of IPCR, Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, aligned with the United Nations theme for this year’s International Day of Peace, “Act Now for a Peaceful World.”
He described peace as a “powerful, urgent clarion call” in the face of global challenges ranging from geopolitical conflicts to economic inequality and violent extremism.
“For 25 years, IPCR has been at the forefront of peacebuilding, from mediating at community levels to facilitating national dialogues and partnering with international organisations. We are celebrating a journey of resilience, commitment, and impact,” Ochogwu said.
