Opening the record…
Opening the record…
Search Peter Obi’s public posts. Read the original words, check the date, and follow the source.
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"Some men change their party for the sake of their principles; others change their principles for the sake of their party." Winston Churchill
Today, May 9th, I attended the 1st convention of my latest party, the… Full text"Some men change their party for the sake of their principles; others change their principles for the sake of their party." Winston Churchill Today, May 9th, I attended the 1st convention of my latest party, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Abuja, Nigeria. The convention was successful and continued to show the resilience of Nigerians to change I express my sincere appreciation and gratitude to the NDC family, led by the distinguished Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, for inviting us and for the generosity of spirit with which they have accommodated us at this critical moment in our national journey. I also wish to express profound gratitude to the African Democratic Congress(ADC), particularly Distinguished Senator David Mark, for providing a democratic platform and showing uncommon understanding when the ongoing litigation forced us out of the Labour Party and the New Nigeria People's Party, NNPP respectively. That spirit of solidarity must remain the foundation upon which a better Nigeria will be built. Today, the most painful aspect of our political existence is that many who once benefited from democratic governance have now become willing accessories to the destruction of democracy itself. Those who once fought for justice now openly celebrate electoral injustice. Those who once spoke against impunity now defend coercion, manipulation, intimidation, and outright political gangsterism, especially against opposition voices. What we are witnessing is not politics; it is a systematic assault on democracy and the will of the people. Nigeria today stands at a dangerous crossroads. Our democracy is under severe threat. Our nation is drifting without direction, and our people are passing through immense suffering. Across the world, Nigeria is increasingly described as a failing and disgraced nation. This is not the destiny God ordained for our great country. It was not always so, and it must never be allowed to remain so. Across virtually every recognised indicator of good governance - accountability, political stability, rule of law, control of corruption, government effectiveness, regulatory quality, and the separation of powers - Nigeria continues to record alarming failures. The institutions that should protect the people are weakening daily, while the burden on ordinary citizens grows heavier with each passing moment. Today, over 140 million Nigerians live in multidimensional poverty. Tens of millions of young people remain unemployed or underemployed. Inflation continues to crush families. Businesses are shutting down. Farmers can no longer safely access their farms. Communities live in fear. In this month alone, hundreds of innocent Nigerians have lost their lives to insecurity, while many others have been kidnapped, displaced, or thrown deeper into poverty. The most heartbreaking question confronting us is this: Who consoles the grieving mother whose child was abducted on the way to school? Who speaks for the father who can no longer feed his family despite working every day? Who defends the young Nigerian whose dreams have been destroyed by a nation that rewards connections over competence and corruption over character? Our present tragedy is not accidental. It is the direct consequence of years of deliberate sabotage by a political class that prospers by dividing the people and weakening the nation. Nigeria is not a poor country; rather, we are being looted into poverty. We have abundant human and natural resources, yet we remain trapped in deprivation because leadership has failed to place the common good above personal interest. Our choice as a people is therefore clear: whether to surrender to despair and national decline, or to summon the courage to rescue our country and rebuild it on the foundations of unity, equity, justice, competence, and productivity. | 9 May 2026 | 1,979 | 561 | |
Health, Education, and pulling people out of poverty remain the three most important measures of development of any nation. That is why my support for these critical areas continues to remain a priority.
Today, Friday… Full textHealth, Education, and pulling people out of poverty remain the three most important measures of development of any nation. That is why my support for these critical areas continues to remain a priority. Today, Friday 9th May, I visited a healthcare facility established and managed by the Church of Nigeria, the Anglican Diocese of Kubwa. After inspecting the facility, I thanked the proprietor and his team for the good work they are doing in helping to ease the burden of our struggling healthcare system, especially for maintaining such a neat and conducive environment for patients. In support of their efforts, I made a token donation of 10 million naira. I encouraged them to remain committed to their service to humanity and also assured them of my continued support for the hospital, healthcare workers, and the healthcare system in general. A New Nigeria is POssible.- PO | 8 May 2026 | 836 | 130 | |
Today, Thursday 7th May, I continued with my commitment to supporting critical areas of development—education, healthcare, and helping people out of poverty—with a visit to the University of the Niger, Umunya, Anambra… Full textToday, Thursday 7th May, I continued with my commitment to supporting critical areas of development—education, healthcare, and helping people out of poverty—with a visit to the University of the Niger, Umunya, Anambra State. The university, which was established just five years ago, has continued to make remarkable progress, and I have made it a point to visit every year to support the good work being done there. My last visit to this institution was at its teaching hospital in Ogidi. Today, I encouraged the students to remain dedicated to their studies, reminding them that the world today is driven by knowledge, and the future of Nigeria rests in the hands of young people like them. In support of scholarships and educational development, I made a donation of 25 million naira for the development of the institution. I sincerely commend the Diocese on the Niger, for their foresight, vision, and steadfast commitment to educational and institutional growth. I also wish to express my appreciation to the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Chinedu Nebo, for his evident dedication to education. His commitment is reflected in the many schools and institutions he continues to support in their growth and strengthening. I remain fully committed to the growth of education and the development of students in our country because no nation can rise beyond the strength of its education and human capital. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 7 May 2026 | 1,161 | 221 | |
Rebuilding Brotherhood Trust Across African Borders
I have been observing with deep concern the alarming rise of xenophobic attacks in South Africa. I strongly condemn these acts. My thoughts are with all those… Full textRebuilding Brotherhood Trust Across African Borders I have been observing with deep concern the alarming rise of xenophobic attacks in South Africa. I strongly condemn these acts. My thoughts are with all those affected—especially our Nigerian brothers and sisters, whose lives, businesses, and dignity are once again under threat. No African should feel unsafe on African soil, or anywhere else. I commend the Minister of Foreign Affairs Mrs Bianca Ojukwu and her Ministry for their swift response to this issue. I recall my visit to our compatriots during a similar crisis. It was a painful experience that revealed both the suffering and resilience of our people. It also highlighted a fundamental truth: beyond borders, we share a common identity and destiny as Africans. Such experiences should have inspired lasting solutions, not recurring tragedy. In this regard, I urge the authorities in South Africa to act decisively - to protect lives and property, bring perpetrators to justice, and restore public confidence. Leadership must rise to the occasion, making it clear that violence and intolerance have no place in our societies. -PO | 5 May 2026 | 1,237 | 166 | |
This morning, in Lagos, I met with the U.S. Consul General, Mr Rick Swart, where we discussed strengthening the bilateral relationship. We focused on promoting credible elections in Nigeria, ensuring they are free from… Full textThis morning, in Lagos, I met with the U.S. Consul General, Mr Rick Swart, where we discussed strengthening the bilateral relationship. We focused on promoting credible elections in Nigeria, ensuring they are free from interference, and fostering a space where all political parties, especially opposition parties can thrive, and contribute. We also discussed trade and business opportunities between our countries. Accompanying me to the meeting was Dr Adefolaseye Adebomi Adebayo. The discussion was very productive, and we are hopeful that, moving forward, Nigeria’s elections will be even more credible and transparent. -PO | 5 May 2026 | 2,035 | 364 | |
"The condition of our nation and the urgent need to rescue Nigeria, informed my decision to leave ADC for NDC."
Yesterday, I formally joined the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), alongside my dear brother, Engr. Dr… Full text"The condition of our nation and the urgent need to rescue Nigeria, informed my decision to leave ADC for NDC." Yesterday, I formally joined the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC), alongside my dear brother, Engr. Dr Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, with one clear purpose: to continue the struggle for a new Nigeria built on justice, competence, accountability, and compassion for the ordinary Nigerian. As I stated yesterday, this decision was not made out of anger, personal ambition, or convenience. It came after deep reflection on the present condition of our nation and the urgent need to rescue Nigeria from the dangerous path it is currently heading. Over the years, I have remained steadfast in my conviction that politics should never be about individuals, positions, or personal gain. It must be about the people, especially the millions of Nigerians who today can no longer afford necessities, whose businesses are collapsing, whose children are losing hope, and whose future is becoming increasingly uncertain. I left the ADC for the same reason I left the Labour Party: the severe, orchestrated litigation and internal crises deliberately designed to ensure that I, alongside many other notable individuals, do not effectively participate in the electoral process. I sincerely appreciate and remain deeply grateful to the Leadership of ADC for the opportunity to work together in pursuit of a better Nigeria. I am particularly grateful to ADC Chairman Senator David Mark for his exceptional Leadership. I also deeply appreciate my Leader and elder brother YE, Atiku Abubakar, as well as other respected leaders within the party. As we join the NDC, I sincerely appeal to the Nigerian Government against the encouragement of unresolved litigations and the infusion of crises within political parties. Democracy must never become a weapon against the people. A healthy democracy thrives on strong institutions, credible alternatives, and the freedom of citizens to make choices without intimidation, manipulation, or fear. Opposition parties must not be weakened or destroyed, because when democracy loses balance, the people ultimately suffer. Nigeria today is passing through one of the most difficult periods in its history. Poverty is rising. Hunger is widespread. Insecurity continues to threaten lives and livelihoods. Businesses are shutting down daily. Our young people are becoming discouraged, and many citizens have lost faith in the system. At a time like this, leadership must be driven not by propaganda or division, but by competence, capacity, character, and compassion. Our decision to join the NDC is therefore not an abandonment of values, but a continuation of the same mission we have always stood for: building a Nigeria where leadership is about service, where public resources are managed responsibly, where institutions function independently, and where every Nigerian, regardless of tribe, religion, region, or social status, can live with dignity, security, and hope. I remain committed to working with all Nigerians of goodwill across political, ethnic, and religious lines. The task before us is bigger than any individual or political party. It is about the future of our children and the survival of our dear nation. I thank Nigerians, especially our youths and women, for remaining peaceful, resilient, and hopeful despite the enormous challenges confronting the country. I urge you not to lose faith in Nigeria. Nations do not change because people surrender to hopelessness; they change because people continue to believe, continue to sacrifice, and continue to stand for what is right. A new Nigeria is still POssible. -PO | 4 May 2026 | 3,588 | 810 | |
Fellow Nigerians, good morning.
I woke up this morning after my church service with a deeply reflective heart, and despite every constraint, I felt compelled to share these thoughts with you.
Many people do not truly… Full textFellow Nigerians, good morning. I woke up this morning after my church service with a deeply reflective heart, and despite every constraint, I felt compelled to share these thoughts with you. Many people do not truly understand the silent pains some of us carry daily—the private struggles, emotional burdens, and quiet battles we face while trying to survive and serve sincerely in difficult circumstances. We now live in an environment that has become increasingly toxic, where the very system that should protect and create opportunities for decent living often works against the people—a society where intimidation, insecurity, endless scrutiny, and discouragement have become normal. More painful is when some of those you associate with, believing you would find understanding and solidarity among them, become part of the pressure you face. Some who publicly identify with you privately distance themselves or join in unfair criticism. We live in a society where humility is mistaken for weakness, respect is seen as a lack of courage, and compassion is treated as foolishness—a system where treating people equally is questioned simply because you refuse to worship status, tribe, class, or power. Personally, I have never looked down on anyone except to uplift them. I have never used privilege, position, or resources to oppress others, intimidate the weak, or make people feel small. To me, leadership has always been about service, sacrifice, and helping others rise. Let me state clearly: my decision to leave the ADC is not because our highly respected Chairman, Senator David Mark, treated me badly, nor because my leader and elder brother, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, or any other respected leaders did anything personally wrong to me. I will continue to respect them. However, the same Nigerian state and its agents that created unnecessary crises and hostility within the Labour Party that forced me to leave now appear to be finding their way into the ADC, with endless court cases, internal battles, suspicion, and division, instead of focusing on deeper national problems and playing politics built more on control and exclusion than on service and nation-building. Even within spaces where one labours sincerely, one is sometimes treated like an outsider in one’s own home. You and your team become easy targets for every failure, frustration, or misunderstanding, as though honest contribution has become a favour being tolerated rather than appreciated. And when you choose to leave so that those you are leaving can have peace, and you step out into the cold, you are still maligned and your character is questioned. Despite all your efforts to continue working for a better Nigeria and engaging people with sincerity and goodwill, those who do not wish you well continue to attack your character and question your intentions. There are moments I ask God in prayer: Why is doing the right thing often misconstrued as wrongdoing in our country? Why is integrity not valued? Why is the prudent management of resources, especially when invested in critical areas like education and healthcare, wrongly labelled as stinginess? Why are humility and obedience to the rule of law often taken to be weakness rather than discipline? Let me assure all that I am not desperate to be President, Vice President, or Senate President. I am desperate to see a society that can console a mother whose child has been kidnapped or killed while going to school or work. I am desperate to see a Nigeria where people will not live in IDP camps but in their homes. I am desperate for a country where Nigerian citizens do not go to bed hungry, not knowing where their next meal will come from. Yet, despite everything, I remain resolute. I firmly believe that Nigeria can still become a country with competent leadership based on justice, compassion, and equal opportunity for all. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 3 May 2026 | 16,020 | 7,171 | |
Harnessing Youth Potential Through Sport.
I followed the recent celebrity boxing match where Carter Efe emerged victorious over the reigning champion, Portable. I congratulate the winner on his determination and… Full textHarnessing Youth Potential Through Sport. I followed the recent celebrity boxing match where Carter Efe emerged victorious over the reigning champion, Portable. I congratulate the winner on his determination and commend both participants for embracing the spirit of sportsmanship. Such healthy competition, grounded in respect and fairness, is a culture we must consciously imbibe as a nation, especially in a time when unity and mutual respect are greatly needed. It is worthy to note that what began as light-hearted entertainment is rapidly evolving into a platform that commands widespread attention, particularly among young Nigerians. Beyond the rings, it reflects the energy, creativity, and resilience of our youth. More importantly, it has the capacity to discover and nurture talents who, with the right support and structure, could become the Anthony Joshuas of the future, placing Nigeria firmly on the global sporting map. It is therefore important that we look more deeply into such events. With deliberate investment, proper regulation, and institutional backing, this emerging space can be transformed into a viable industry - one that creates employment, instills discipline, and channels youthful energy into productive ventures. In doing so, we not only entertain, but also empower, building pathways for sustainable national development. A new is POssible. -PO | 2 May 2026 | 1,128 | 298 | |
With profound sadness, I received the shocking news of the passing of my dear elder brother Mike Okaka in USA. On behalf of my family and the Obidient family, I extend my deepest condolences and sincerely mourn his… Full textWith profound sadness, I received the shocking news of the passing of my dear elder brother Mike Okaka in USA. On behalf of my family and the Obidient family, I extend my deepest condolences and sincerely mourn his loss. Mike was a devoted supporter of the Obidient movement and a passionate believer in the vision of a new Nigeria. His dedication, energy, and unwavering commitment to the ideals of good governance were truly remarkable. He stood firm in the collective struggle for a better nation and made meaningful contributions toward the cause we all cherish. May God Almighty, who has called him home, grant him eternal rest, and may He comfort his family, loved ones, and all of us with the strength and fortitude to bear this painful and irreplaceable loss. -PO | 2 May 2026 | 1,969 | 109 | |
Workers Are the Backbone of Every Nation
On this Workers’ Day, I warmly salute workers across the world, especially Nigerian workers whose daily sacrifices continue to sustain our families, communities, institutions,… Full textWorkers Are the Backbone of Every Nation On this Workers’ Day, I warmly salute workers across the world, especially Nigerian workers whose daily sacrifices continue to sustain our families, communities, institutions, and national economy, even in the face of severe hardship and uncertainty. It is deeply painful that those who wake up every day to teach, heal, build, farm, produce, transport, protect, and serve our nation are still denied the dignity and fair reward their labour deserves. In today’s Nigeria, the minimum wage can no longer guarantee even the most modest standard of living, as inflation, rising food prices, transportation costs, and economic hardship continue to erode the value of honest work. No nation can truly develop beyond the strength, productivity, and wellbeing of its workforce. The progress of any society rests on the quality of its human capital, the skill of its people, and the commitment of its workers. When workers suffer, the nation suffers. When workers are empowered, the nation prospers. But beyond their labour, workers also possess another powerful tool, their voice and their vote. Through democratic participation, they have the power to shape governance and determine the future direction of the nation. I therefore urge Nigerian workers to recognise the strength they hold collectively. They owe it to themselves, their children, and future generations to support and demand leadership built on competence, character, capacity, credibility, and compassion. By refusing to reward failure, corruption, ethnic division, and bad governance, they can help build a nation where hard work is respected and rewarded with dignity. A productive nation must be built on justice, fairness, and respect for labour. That is the Nigeria we must work together to achieve. With the support and participation of Nigerian workers, a New Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 1 May 2026 | 666 | 112 | |
When Borrowing is Leprosy and cancerous.
Mr. President, borrowing is not only a leprosy, but a killer cancer when it is borrowed for consumption and not production as it is in Nigeria today.
Borrowing for… Full textWhen Borrowing is Leprosy and cancerous. Mr. President, borrowing is not only a leprosy, but a killer cancer when it is borrowed for consumption and not production as it is in Nigeria today. Borrowing for consumption slowly eats away at the health, reputation, and autonomy of a nation. One of the major “leprosy” afflicting Nigeria today is not just debt, but debt without productivity. Debt that is not tied to measurable economic value. Debt that does not translate into jobs, growth, or improved living standards for the Nigerian people. No serious economy borrows recklessly. Nations borrow with discipline, with purpose, and with a clear plan for repayment through productive investment. Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007 provides that “Any government in the Federation or its agencies and corporations desirous of borrowing shall, specify the purpose for which the borrowing is intended and present a cost-benefit analysis, detailing the economic and social benefits of the purpose to which the intended borrowing is to be applied” Cost-benefit analysis must show how the loan would be applied, how it will impact economic growth and improve the welfare of Nigerian citizens in measurable ways. Most of the borrowings by this government do not satisfy the requirements of law or the requirements of economic common sense. The humongous borrowing so far does not show how the projects for the loans enhance the productive capacity of the nation and the welfare of Nigerian citizens. These loans are also dangerous because they burden the capacity of the Nigerian state to improve the economy in the future, as we have one of the world’s highest debt servicing ratios. What matters is not debt-GDP as much as debt-debt servicing ratio because the latter constrains our capacity to finance the sectors that drive human development and economic growth. If the money is wrongly spent as we do in Nigeria currently, it becomes double jeopardy because you are using current revenue to service debts that did not add to revenue or improve capacity for more production in the future. A responsible government does not merely defend borrowing; it explains it, justifies it, and most importantly, ensures it works for the people. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 30 Apr 2026 | 1,297 | 271 | |
Extrajudicial Killing in Effurun
The extrajudicial killing of a young Nigerian Mr. Mene Ogidi, in Effurun, Delta State, by a police officer, is not only barbaric but also a grave violation of the rule of law.
Over… Full textExtrajudicial Killing in Effurun The extrajudicial killing of a young Nigerian Mr. Mene Ogidi, in Effurun, Delta State, by a police officer, is not only barbaric but also a grave violation of the rule of law. Over time, human society has moved away from an era when lives could be taken without consequence. Through the evolution of civilisation, a fundamental principle has emerged: no one should be punished or deprived of life without due process and a fair determination of guilt. Such acts inflict unimaginable trauma on the bereaved family and deepen public anxiety in an already distressed society. Nigerians are already traumatised by recurring reports of brutal killings by terror organisations across the country, and incidents of this nature - especially when involving state actors - only worsen that psychological burden and erode public confidence in safety and security. In light of this, while the law must take its full course, I commend the prompt response of the police authorities so far and express confidence that they will pursue this matter to its logical conclusion. Such responsiveness is necessary to reassure the public that justice will not be compromised. I therefore urge the police and all security agencies to sustain this approach by acting with transparency and accountability. Furthermore, recruitment processes must be more rigorous, ensuring that only individuals of sound judgment and the right frame of mind are entrusted with firearms. In the final analysis, these measures can restore public trust and uphold justice - both of which are indispensable to building a new Nigeria that is possible. -PO | 29 Apr 2026 | 434 | 70 | |
EFCC's Troubling Revelation on Our Students.
The worrisome statement by the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) that 6 out of every 10 Nigerian university students are involved in… Full textEFCC's Troubling Revelation on Our Students. The worrisome statement by the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) that 6 out of every 10 Nigerian university students are involved in “419” is deeply troubling and must not be taken lightly. Nigeria already has a very limited number of students in higher institutions, estimated at 2 to 2.5 million. If indeed about 60% of them, roughly 1.4 million young people, are involved in fraud, then we are not just facing a crime issue; we are confronting a serious moral and systemic failure. The question we must ask ourselves is: what has brought us to this level? Who are the role models these students are looking up to?. What values are they learning from society? We must understand that young people become what they consistently see. When a system appears to reward wrongdoing, when integrity is not upheld, and when those in leadership are associated with allegations of forgery and dishonesty without consequence, it sends a dangerous message. It suggests that hard work does not matter, and that results, by any means, are acceptable. These points clearly point to a collapse of moral values. As Socrates rightly said, “An unexamined life is not worth living.” Nigeria must now examine itself. This is not about condemning our young people. It is about accepting that leadership sets the tone. If we do not demonstrate integrity at the top, we cannot expect it at the bottom. We must urgently rebuild our value system, enforce accountability without bias, and create an environment where honesty, hard work, and discipline are rewarded. That is the only sustainable path to securing the future of our nation. A new Nigeria is POssible! -PO | 29 Apr 2026 | 1,127 | 284 | |
My ongoing nationwide consultations with notable South East leaders ahead of the 2027 general election continued on Tuesday April 28, 2026. We visited Governor @seyimakinde of Oyo State in Ibadan.
Our meeting provided… Full textMy ongoing nationwide consultations with notable South East leaders ahead of the 2027 general election continued on Tuesday April 28, 2026. We visited Governor @seyimakinde of Oyo State in Ibadan. Our meeting provided an opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions on critical issues concerning our nation, the direction of our democracy, and the urgent need to build a united, more inclusive, secure, and economically viable Nigeria. We exchanged views on governance, development priorities, and the role of responsible leadership in this crucial period of our national journey. The consultations remain essential as we continue to listen, reflect, and work collectively towards a better future for all Nigerians. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 28 Apr 2026 | 571 | 87 | |
A decaying Nation Crying for Leadership.
What we have witnessed across our country in just the past 48 hours is not only tragic, it is utterly unacceptable and a damning indictment of our collective failure of… Full textA decaying Nation Crying for Leadership. What we have witnessed across our country in just the past 48 hours is not only tragic, it is utterly unacceptable and a damning indictment of our collective failure of leadership. From the reported killings in Katsina, Adamawa, Kaduna and Benue States, to the gruesome murder of an entire family in Plateau State, and the heartbreaking abduction of innocent children in Kogi State, one of the incidents involves children conveying their mother's dead body for burial. Nigeria is bleeding. We are fast becoming a nation where human life is treated as expendable, where citizens live in fear, and where the basic duty of government, to protect lives and property, is repeatedly neglected. 11 innocent Nigerians were killed in Katsina State. 7 more in Benue State. 23 in Adamawa State in just one day. An entire family was brutally murdered in Plateau State. 24 children were abducted from an orphanage in Kogi State, and 10 more children were taken in Kaduna State, all within 48 hours. These are not mere statistics; they are our fellow Nigerians, fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, whose lives have been brutally cut short or violently disrupted. This cannot continue. A nation cannot develop under the weight of such persistent insecurity and human tragedy. The normalisation of these horrors is itself a crisis. We must ask, with all sense of urgency and responsibility: where is the leadership? Where is the coordination, the competence, and the compassion required to confront this menace decisively? My heart goes out to all the grieving families across these states. I pray for divine comfort for those who have lost loved ones and for the safe and immediate return of all abducted children. A New Nigeria is not just a slogan; it has become an urgent necessity. A New Nigeria is Possible. -PO | 28 Apr 2026 | 860 | 173 | |
In continuation of my extensive consultations with Nigerian leaders, today, notable South East Leaders, and I visited our respected former President Goodluck Jonathan @GEJonathan on a consultation regarding the 2027… Full textIn continuation of my extensive consultations with Nigerian leaders, today, notable South East Leaders, and I visited our respected former President Goodluck Jonathan @GEJonathan on a consultation regarding the 2027 general elections and, more importantly, the future of our dear nation. Our discussions were frank, thoughtful, and anchored on the urgent need to reposition Nigeria on the path of unity, security, stability, productivity, and inclusive governance. At a time when our nation continues to grapple with economic hardship, rising insecurity, and deepening social divisions, it has become imperative that Leaders across regions come together to reflect, consult, and act in the overall interest of the Nigerian people. Nigeria today requires leadership that is guided not by personal ambition, but by competence, character, capacity, and compassion. The kind of leadership that understands that governance is not about sharing what is left, but about creating what is needed. We must move from a consumption-driven nation to a production-driven one, where our vast human and natural resources are effectively harnessed for the common good. The 2027 elections must therefore not just be seen as another political exercise, but as a critical opportunity to reset the trajectory of our country. It must be about the Nigerian child who deserves quality education, the struggling entrepreneur who needs a conducive environment to thrive, and the millions of citizens who simply desire a secure and functional nation. I remain convinced that through sincere dialogue, unity of purpose, and a firm commitment to doing what is right, Nigeria can and will rise again. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 27 Apr 2026 | 916 | 167 | |
The Transformative Power of Sport
Sports have the unique power to forge identity and legacy. Iconic figures like Pelé and Plato - originally named Edson Arantes do Nascimento and Aristocles - carried names earned… Full textThe Transformative Power of Sport Sports have the unique power to forge identity and legacy. Iconic figures like Pelé and Plato - originally named Edson Arantes do Nascimento and Aristocles - carried names earned through athletic prowess rather than birth. This reveals a profound truth: sports are not merely entertainment; they are a crucible for character and excellence. With this in mind, I arrived early in Ibadan today and observed the ongoing clean-up exercise. I parked beside the Lekan Salami Stadium, where groups of young people were actively engaged in basketball, lawn tennis, handball, and judo. It was uplifting to witness their discipline and energy. Such scenes reflect progress and offer a powerful glimpse into the immense potential of our youth. I made it a point to stop and encourage them because sports are more than just a game - they are a lifeline as well as a critical sector that deserves greater investment and support. For these young men, sports serve as a powerful engine for social mobility and personal reinvention. By instilling relentless discipline and teamwork, the field becomes a space where they can transcend their circumstances, sharpen their resolve, and transform their raw potential into a lasting legacy of excellence. A new Nigeria is Possible. -PO | 25 Apr 2026 | 705 | 170 | |
Troubling Developments from the citadel of learning.
The reason Universities are regarded as an ivory tower is because its seen as centres for pure, isolated intellectual thought. It's therefore worrisome when they… Full textTroubling Developments from the citadel of learning. The reason Universities are regarded as an ivory tower is because its seen as centres for pure, isolated intellectual thought. It's therefore worrisome when they are increasingly pressured to operate outside this norm. Today, I was scheduled to be at Obafemi Awolowo University at 9am prompt to deliver a keynote lecture, before proceeding to Ibadan for the opposition parties' political summit scheduled to commence at 12noon. The invitation was extended to me several months ago, and adequate preparations had been made. Regrettably, I received the news that the event would no longer be held in the University as planned. While such occurrences may be dismissed in isolation, it is important to state clearly that this has now happened more than ten times. This is no longer incidental; it points to a troubling pattern that should concern all well-meaning Nigerians. My alma mater, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka was not excluded. The family of one of the renowned UNN Vice Chancellor late Professor Frank Ndili had planned an annual lecture on his behalf and the inaugural lecture was to be delivered, but on the scheduled date it was cancelled by the University authority. These are not merely personal inconveniences; they raise deeper questions about the kind of environment we are nurturing in our country. Universities are meant to be centres of learning, open dialogue, and the free exchange of ideas. When platforms for constructive engagement are repeatedly constrained, it reflects a worrying shift away from these ideals. This concern becomes even more pronounced when viewed against my engagements across the world, where I have been privileged to speak and interact freely with students and scholars in respected institutions. In the past 24 months, I have delivered lectures in notable universities globally including Oxford University, Cambridge University, Harvard University, Yale University, Princeton University, Chicago University, University of Pennsylvania, Imperial College, to name a few. Those environments continue to demonstrate openness to dialogue, critical thinking, and shared learning, values that should equally define our own institutions. We must ask ourselves: what kind of nation are we building if spaces meant for intellectual engagement are gradually shrinking? A country’s progress is anchored on its ability to encourage knowledge, debate, and the contest of ideas, not restrict them. Nigeria must work towards becoming a place where ideas thrive, where knowledge is shared without fear, and where our institutions uphold the principles they were established to protect. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 25 Apr 2026 | 1,025 | 523 | |
Still in Bauchi State.
Finally as part of my itinerary in Bauchi state on Thursday 23rd, 2026, after meeting with the state Governor,
Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, visiting Madarasatu Intisharul Islam Qismu… Full textStill in Bauchi State. Finally as part of my itinerary in Bauchi state on Thursday 23rd, 2026, after meeting with the state Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, visiting Madarasatu Intisharul Islam Qismu Tahfizul, Qur'an, Yelwa, Malikiya College of Nursing Sciences, Bauchi, I also visited Thomas Moore School of Health, Sciences and Technology, Bauchi. I had visited the institution in the past and donated 10 million naira, which, according to management, contributed immensely to modernising their laboratories. During my visit, I donated an additional 10 million naira to support scholarships. Health is No 1 critical for development and we must invest in the human infrastructure needed for that development. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 25 Apr 2026 | 475 | 96 | |
Still in Bauchi State.
As part of my itinerary in Bauchi state yesterday Thursday 23rd, 2026, after visiting, Madarasatu Intisharul Islam Qismu Tahfizul, Qur'an, Yelwa, I visited Malikiya College of Nursing Sciences,… Full textStill in Bauchi State. As part of my itinerary in Bauchi state yesterday Thursday 23rd, 2026, after visiting, Madarasatu Intisharul Islam Qismu Tahfizul, Qur'an, Yelwa, I visited Malikiya College of Nursing Sciences, Bauchi. I had visited the institution in the past and donated 10 million naira which they used to set up their ICT computer centre, which I was impressed to see alongside their increased student intake. During my visit, I donated another 10million naira. Health is critical for development and we must invest in the human infrastructure needed for that development. A new Nigeria is POsssible. -PO | 24 Apr 2026 | 654 | 184 |