Former Commonwealth Secretary-General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, on Wednesdays. said that Nigeria as a nation has all it takes to be the leading nation in the world if she can effectively tackle the number of serious problems that is confronting.

He made the statement Tuesday at the occasion of the launching of the Emeka Anyaoku Institute of International Studies and Diplomacy held at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, NAU Awka auditorium.

Anyaoku who appreciated the institution for giving him such honour in his life time

According to him, the work of the institute will contribute to inter dependence study expressed hope that the institute will provide for the burgeoning practitioners in diplomacy.and help to streghten the unity of the nation.

He said: “I am glad to associate with an institution that bears the name of an illustrious son, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe. I have committed fifty years of my working life in promoting cordial relationship between nations and political problems within and between nations and tackling climate change issues.

“I often say that at the age of 84 years, I have entered the departure lounge but my prayer and that of my family and friends is that my flight should be delayed much more longer.

“As the Common Wealth Secretary General, I had not known before now what to do with the large number and volumes of my books and papers I have but Nnamdi Azikiwe University have helped me to solve that problem. I will now deposit all my books in this institute to enable other people share my knowledge.”

Earlier in his speech, the former Minister of External Affairs, Gen. Ike Nwachukwu, who was the chairman of the occasion described Anyaoku as a team leader and great ambassador in Nigeria worthy of the honour given him.

He said that Nigeria needs a country based on equity, fairness and justice urging the youths not to destroy it.

His words: “Now is the time our country requires diplomacy and international relations.”

The retired General of the Nigerian army maintained that ninety nine percent of Nigerians are decent saying that it is the responsibility of Nigerians to tell the world that good people exist in this part of the world adding: “We should sell ourselves.”

In his remark, former Chief of Army Staff, Retired General Theophilus Danjuma hailed Gen Nwachukwu’s call for the youths not to destroy the country saying that though restructuring is a good idea, it should not be sought for through violence.

He said: “May God forbid that we will use visa to visit each other.”

On his part, the former Head of State, Gen. Abdusalam Abubakar said: “We must embrace peace, without it there will not be a country, a university and an Anyaoku. All together, there is strength in diversity.”

The former Minister of Education, Mrs. Oby Ezekwesili said that the way Anyaoku had distinguished himself speaks volumes of what mattes in life which she noted is humility.

“Nigeria is a great nation and nothing is going to stop it. We should consider that we are greater together than apart.”

President General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, Chief John Nnia Nwodo said that Anyaoku was one Igbo man whose advice had helped to sustain and strengthen him in the position he is occupying.

“At the age of 31year I was appointed Minister of Aviation and served in the same cabinet with Anyaoku. It was a privilege for me as his direction and advice gave me the perfect direction I needed.”

The state governor in his remark praised Anyaoku’s success saying that whatever he touches turns to gold.

He said that his advice to his government has played a major role to the success of his government.

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