Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has called for greater national unity and transformative leadership as critical steps toward rebuilding Nigeria’s economy and restoring public confidence in governance.
Obi made the remarks while addressing political stakeholders and supporters, stressing that unity had become a national necessity rather than a political option.
According to him, Nigerians must rise above ethnic, religious, regional, and political divisions to rescue the country from its current challenges.
“Where we are, national unity is no longer optional; it is a national necessity,” Obi stated.
The former governor said Nigeria could regain prosperity through effective leadership and a deliberate focus on productive sectors of the economy, particularly agriculture and manufacturing.
He advocated stronger investments in agriculture, especially in Northern Nigeria, noting that the region possesses enormous untapped agricultural potential that could drive industrial production and economic growth nationwide.
Obi urged the country to transition from a consumption-driven economy to one centred on production, job creation, and value addition.
He also criticised policies he said were limiting opportunities for young Nigerians, insisting that youths should be empowered as productive assets rather than treated as burdens.
“Our youths must no longer be viewed as problems to manage, but as assets to empower,” he said.
The former presidential candidate further emphasised the importance of women’s inclusion in governance and national development, calling for equal participation in nation-building efforts.
Obi maintained that Nigeria could overcome insecurity, inflation, corruption, unemployment, and declining educational standards through what he described as competent, compassionate, and transformative leadership.
He expressed optimism about the future of the country, saying a “new Nigeria” built on justice, fairness, security, and inclusiveness remained possible.
The comments come amid ongoing political consultations and realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
