Orji Uzor Kalu’s pitch as peace broker could yet propel him to Nigeria’s presidency. However, the former state governor will struggle to be heard above the chaos consuming the country
Nigeria is Africa’s eternal prospect. Twice as populous as any other African country, it is an emerging economy with fantastic oil and gas reserves. It has natural resources as varied as cocoa, uranium and rubber, as well as skilled, low cost labour. But much of this remains mere potential. Conflict and corruption have cut into the country’s core, draining its credibility in the eyes of outsiders. Businesses are reluctant to invest, and western governments advise against travel to Nigeria.