Domestic Crises Undermine Nigeria’s Global Influence, Says Maranatha VC

By Akemini Udoh

The Vice – Chancellor of Maranatha University, Professor Rufus Akinyele, has observed that Nigeria’s domestic challenges are limiting the influence of the country in international affairs.

Professor Akinyele stated this on Monday while reviewing a collection of essays in a compendium titled : “Governance Crises and Contradictions in Nigeria’s Relations,” a festchrift in honour of the former Dean of School of Postgraduate Studies, University of Lagos (SPGS UNILAG) , Professor Oladele Akinboye which took place at the Faculty of Social Sciences lecture Theatre, UNILAG, Akoka.

He stated that the various numerous domestic challenges facing the country tends to undermine the country’s global positioning.

According to Akinyele, Nigeria 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.

“Out of the 91 people who were screened for the 24 federal constituencies, only about 12 were women, and at the end of the process, they were all edged out,” he said.

The guest lecturer Prof. 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 her protection rests largely in the hands of her 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,” he said.

“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.”

Speaking at the occasion, a third Republic Senator, Anthony Adefuye congratulated Professor Akinboye for retiring from active service without blemish.

Adefuye, an Akokite himself who read Mechanical Engineering from the University commended succeeding leadership of UNILAG for keeping the flag flying.

He said he is always proud of students of UNILAG for distinguishing themselves in the society.

He urged the current students in the University to work hard.

The event was attended by the 12th Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Oluwatoyin Ogundipe; the representative of the Chief Book Presenter, Prof. Francis Ogunye; and a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Abiodun Orekoya