Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has reiterated Nigeria’s vast potential and called on leaders to leverage the country’s resources to position it as a global leader.

Obasanjo, who spoke on Tuesday at the ongoing Ecobank Design and Build Expo at the Ecobank Pan African Centre in Lagos, commended the bank for organising an event that brought attention to the architecture, building, construction, and design sectors.

During his visit, Chief Obasanjo toured the various pavilions showcasing cutting-edge trends, innovations, and sustainable practices in architecture, construction, building materials, household appliances, engineering, and interior design.

He expressed admiration for the high quality of work displayed by the exhibitors.

The former president called on leaders at all levels to leverage Nigeria’s resources and drive the nation’s economy to new heights.

“It takes the facilities, opportunities, and expertise that we have in Nigeria to bring them together and build houses, offices, and monuments from what we have.

“And it’s very interesting and exciting. It confirms my belief that God has been extremely generous and kind in Nigeria. There is nothing you want to get in this country that you won’t get,” the former President said.

The five-day event, themed “Building Nigeria Together,” kicked off on November 27 and will run until December 1, 2024. Sessions begin daily at 10:00 am, with over 60 exhibitors set to showcase their latest products and innovations.

Prominent exhibitors at the event include SABA Steel, Nigeria’s largest steel manufacturer; Coleman Wire & Cables, West Africa’s leading cable producer; Dulux Paints, a top brand in Nigeria; HTL Africa, an innovative architectural firm; and ITB Nigeria Limited, a major player in construction across the region.