Addis Ababa, July 16, 2026 (FMC) — Former Nigerian President and African Union Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa Olusegun Obasanjo shared Nigeria’s experience of reconciliation after civil war, emphasizing that nations emerging from internal conflicts must pursue healing, reconstruction and political dialogue to rebuild a common future.
Addressing the opening of Ethiopia’s historic National Dialogue Conference in Addis Ababa, Obasanjo described the process as a significant moment not only for Ethiopia but also for the IGAD region and Africa, commending the vision and commitment behind the initiative.
Drawing parallels with Nigeria’s experience, Obasanjo said civil wars present a unique challenge because, unlike foreign conflicts, they require nations to rebuild relationships among their own citizens after the fighting ends.
“Fighting a civil war is more difficult than fighting a foreign war,” he said, explaining that a foreign war may end with destruction of an opponent, while a civil war requires a nation to fight while preserving the possibility of rebuilding together.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s civil war, Obasanjo highlighted the principle of “no victor, no vanquished” adopted after the conflict, saying the approach helped the country move from confrontation toward reconciliation.
He explained that former opponents were not treated as permanent enemies but as brothers and sisters who needed to be brought back into national life. Former combatants were reintegrated where possible, while broader efforts focused on reconciliation, reconstruction and rehabilitation.
Obasanjo said ending the fighting was only the first step, as political questions that contributed to conflict must also be addressed through dialogue and inclusive processes.
He recalled that Nigeria later used political conferences and national consultations to strengthen its political system and address outstanding national questions, noting that such mechanisms helped the country rebuild its foundations.
The former Nigerian leader praised Ethiopia’s National Dialogue Commission for the preparation and consultations it conducted over the past years, saying the groundwork laid for the process reflects the importance of ensuring meaningful national discussions.
He said Ethiopia’s National Dialogue presents an opportunity to transform past experiences into a foundation for a stronger future, emphasizing that history, diversity and the lessons of previous challenges can become sources of strength.
Obasanjo stressed that the purpose of such a process is to build a shared sense of belonging and common purpose among citizens.
He said Ethiopia’s future opportunities depend on achieving the objectives of the National Dialogue and creating the conditions for the country to advance as a united society.
The former Nigerian President concluded by expressing hope that the dialogue would help Ethiopia strengthen national cohesion and realize its ambition of becoming one of Africa’s leading nations.