Olusegun Obasanjo, a former President of Nigeria has blamed government’s policy somersault in the last 15 years for Nigeria’s inability to produce its own satellite.
The growth of the nation’s technological push, according to Obasanjo, will remain a mirage without committed efforts and a unique blueprint.
The former Head of State spoke at his residence in Abeokuta, Ogun capital, at a meeting with the management of Algorism Ltd.
Obasanjo recalled how his administration worked to collect numerous indigenous engineers to construct a satellite between 1999 and 2007.
The retired general revealed that the previous administration had made a deal with the Chinese to educate 120 Nigerians in satellite construction.
The plan was China will build the first satellite, build the second, while tutoring Nigerians who will later build the third, Obasanjo disclosed.
“But the 120 Nigerians were nowhere to be found again; they were not dead.
“The government that came after us could not understand and that is part of the misfortune of Nigeria. I met the Nigerians when I later went to China,” he said.
The former President assured he would continue to mentor and be available to offer guidance as long as he is capable, healthy, and fit to play squash daily.
Obasanjo added that his head and “stomach level” are “still okay”, while early morning walk confirms his legs are in good condition as well.