Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has criticised what he described as non-productive foreign trips by government officials, insisting that state visits should produce measurable economic benefits for citizens rather than serve as ceremonial outings.
In a statement on Sunday, Obi said diplomacy should be focused on attracting investments, industrial partnerships, technology transfer, trade agreements, and job creation.
According to him, serious nations align foreign policy with economic growth and national productivity.
Obi cited the recent visit of Donald Trump to China as an example of what he called result-driven diplomacy.
He noted that the American delegation reportedly included senior government officials alongside top global business executives such as Elon Musk, Tim Cook, Jensen Huang, Larry Fink, and David Solomon.
He claimed that the visit reportedly resulted in several major trade agreements, including aircraft orders involving Boeing.
Obi contrasted the reported outcomes with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent state visit to the United Kingdom, questioning the economic value derived from the trip.
According to Obi, Nigerians are still asking what concrete benefits the country secured from the visit, including investments, industrial agreements, factory projects, or employment opportunities for citizens.
He argued that symbolism and ceremonial appearances cannot replace tangible economic outcomes, especially at a time when Nigeria is facing economic hardship, insecurity, unemployment, inflation, and declining industrial productivity.
Obi also expressed concern over the size of the Nigerian delegation, which reportedly included governors, ministers, lawmakers, security personnel, aides, and associates.
He maintained that every public expenditure on foreign engagements should translate into visible national gains capable of improving citizens’ welfare.
The former governor further urged Nigerian leaders to prioritise productivity, economic expansion, and practical results over political optics and ceremonial events.
According to him, Nigeria needs leadership focused on delivering measurable economic progress capable of addressing poverty, unemployment, and declining living standards across the country.
