During the 16th Anyiam-Osigwe lecture series titled ‘Rehumanising human experience: A synopsis of Anyiam-Osigwe’s treaties, Former British Prime Minister Mr Boris Johnson expressed optimism about the defeat of banditry and terrorism in Nigeria, and the eventual establishment of law and order in the country.
At the event held at the Marriot Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos, organized by the Osigwe Anyiam-Osigwe Foundation in collaboration with the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Johnson stressed the importance of safety as the first and foremost requirement for a thriving country. He highlighted equality under the law as the foundation for freedom and emphasized that the UK is ready to provide support for Nigeria in defeating banditry and terrorism.
Johnson pointed out that democracy, which includes the right to choose those who govern and remove them from office, is under attack and urged politicians to create opportunities for people to reach their full potential as it is not only morally right but also beneficial for the economy. He expressed disappointment in the colossal waste of human potential in Nigeria despite its vast resources and urged the government to invest in credible elections, education, and a good transport system to unleash its potential.
Furthermore, Johnson emphasized the importance of an open system society, where the law is enforced without fear or favor, and called for deeper partnerships between Nigeria and the UK, emphasizing the similarities between the two nations. He concluded that the three crucial conditions for releasing human potential are safety, equality under the law, and an open system society.