The Metropolitan Catholic Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan says Nigeria cannot be called a failed state.
Onaiyekan, who said this while presenting a keynote address at the 70th Anniversary of the National Association of Seadogs (NAS) (Pyrates Confraternity), added that he cannot say that everything is bad in Nigeria.
In his words, “But having said all the above, I could not say that everything is all bad with our nation. Many people, especially foreigners have been predicting that Nigeria will soon become a failed state.
“I do not believe that we have reached that stage nor do I think that we shall reach that stage any time soon. The flag of the nation is still flying even though it is dirty and tattered.
“I am saying this because basic institutions are still functioning even though not at an optimal level. Bad or weak government is better than no government at all. I do not believe we have reached a state of total anarchy,” he said.
Onaiyekan further explained that Nigeria still has a police force and armed forces and other security agencies, once in a while performing their duties.
He added that “We must not forget the many Nigerians who are working hard to plug the holes and fill the gaps left by bad governance. Most of them continue to do their duty with little or no recognition or reward. I believe these are those who are still keeping the rickety system standing.
“We are hearing very wonderful news about our citizens abroad in the diaspora. They are easily now our most important foreign resources and as- sets, despite our just concerns about brain drain.
“Their brilliant performance gives us great hope that when our nation succeeds in organising itself well, the sky will be the limit for our citizens coming home from abroad”
