Femi Adesina, former Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to late former President Muhammadu Buhari, has blamed poor leadership and corruption for Nigeria’s slow pace of development despite its vast human and natural resources.

Adesina made the remarks on Thursday while speaking at the annual public lecture organised by the Foursquare Gospel Church, Aba Ibeji, in Oluyole Local Government Area of Oyo State.

He noted that Nigeria is richly blessed with a large youthful population, abundant natural resources, fertile land, and a strategic geographical location, but has failed to convert these advantages into meaningful prosperity for its citizens.

“Nigeria has everything needed to move forward, including a large youthful population, rich natural resources, fertile land, and a good geographical location,” he said.

“Poor leadership and corruption are holding Nigeria back. Nigeria is endowed with both human and natural resources, but unfortunately, it has not translated to wealth.”

The former presidential spokesman said many young Nigerians remain frustrated by the lack of employment opportunities and declining living standards.

Adesina further lamented that promises made by successive governments have largely gone unfulfilled, urging current leaders to align their actions with their commitments and ensure that the country's resources are used to improve the lives of citizens.