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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Stop the Destruction of People’s Property
I like to reiterate my strong condemnation of the willful destruction of people's property, and goods by governments at any level without notice.
The recent demolition of… Full textStop the Destruction of People’s Property I like to reiterate my strong condemnation of the willful destruction of people's property, and goods by governments at any level without notice. The recent demolition of citizens' structures and the destruction of their goods and merchandise remains condemnable. An administration whose policies and style have sent several million Nigerians into poverty in 29 months should show compassion for its citizens. This is happening across the country at a time when the government is supposed to be lifting citizens out of poverty. Instead, it is plunging them deeper into hardship. These demolitions destroy livelihoods, undermine businesses, and threaten the economic security of hardworking citizens. Many of these shops contained goods worth billions of Naira, representing years of investment and toil. What legal authority justifies the destruction of private property—clearly not used for criminal purposes—without prior notice or due process? We must ask: are these actions genuinely in the public interest, or are they arbitrary and disproportionate exercises of power? Citizens deserve protection for their investments, livelihoods, and dignity. The government must ensure that urban development and enforcement respect the rule of law and the rights of the people. Meanwhile, these acts of demolition send a chilling message to entrepreneurs across the nation and beyond: that their hard work and sacrifices can be wiped away overnight. If we fail to stand against such injustices, we risk undermining the very foundations of economic growth and social stability. Every citizen has the right to build a life through honest work, and that right must never be trampled. -PO | 13 Oct 2025 | 894 | 156 | |
With great joy, I extend my warmest congratulations to my dear elder brother and Leader, former Vice President Namadi Sambo, on his well-deserved turbaning as the Sardaunan Zazzau by His Royal Highness, the Emir of… Full textWith great joy, I extend my warmest congratulations to my dear elder brother and Leader, former Vice President Namadi Sambo, on his well-deserved turbaning as the Sardaunan Zazzau by His Royal Highness, the Emir of Zazzau, Alhaji Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, on Saturday, October 11. This distinguished title, Sardaunan Zazzau, deeply rooted in the rich cultural and historical traditions of Northern Nigeria, is a testament to the Zazzau Emirate’s profound confidence in your wisdom, integrity, and lifelong commitment to the progress of our society. I am not surprised by this honour, as it reflects the invaluable contributions you have made to our nation’s development. Your investiture as Sardaunan Zazzau is a celebration of your exemplary record of humility, and dedication to the service of humanity. This recognition underscores your deep-rooted devotion to your community and our beloved country, Nigeria. I also take this moment to commend His Royal Highness, the Emir of Zazzau, for upholding the noble tradition of honouring individuals whose character, patriotism, and leadership embody the cherished values of the Emirate. This act strengthens the spirit of unity, service, and integrity that we all strive to uphold. May your journey as Sardaunan Zazzau be a source of blessing to our nation. -PO | 12 Oct 2025 | 219 | 21 | |
My Visit to the USA, Rome: Taking Nigeria's Situation to God.
After my 2-day trip to the United States - where I addressed the Friendship Club on Saturday, 4 October, and spoke at the 1st Ubuntu African Youth Assembly… Full textMy Visit to the USA, Rome: Taking Nigeria's Situation to God. After my 2-day trip to the United States - where I addressed the Friendship Club on Saturday, 4 October, and spoke at the 1st Ubuntu African Youth Assembly in Washington on Sunday, 5 October - I departed that same night for Rome, arriving on 6th October to join my dearest wife, who was already in Rome waiting for me. This year marks a Jubilee Year, an event celebrated every twenty-five years, and my dearest wife and I chose to dedicate our prayers to Nigeria. With hearts full of gratitude, we thanked God that, despite our differences and the many challenges faced over sixty-five years of independence, He has kept us together as one nation - a rare and profound blessing for which we remain deeply thankful. We also sought forgiveness for our national transgressions and implored God to intervene in the suffering of the Nigerian people. We prayed for the injection into our political landscape selfless and compassionate leaders whose hearts He God would touch—leaders who would be truthful in word and deed, altruistic in service, and committed to using public resources for the common good. Leaders whose decisions would reflect competence, capacity, character, and commitment to the welfare of all. Leaders who understand that they were not created to live in isolation but in community with others, and must ensure that actions are for the benefit of the community. On Tuesday, the 7th of October, as part of our pilgrimage, we passed through three Holy Doors of the four major Papal Basilicas in Rome, praying at each that God would open the door of His mercy to Nigeria. At St. Mary Major, we prayed, passed through the Holy Door, and reflected at the grave of the late Pope Francis. From there, we journeyed to the Papal Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls, where Cardinal James Harvey warmly received us, led us through the Holy Door, and shared the basilica’s rich history and the deep significance of the Jubilee Year. Our third stop was the Papal Basilica of St. John Lateran, dedicated to Saints John the Baptist and John the Evangelist, where, together with other pilgrims, we passed through the Holy Door and joined in prayer. We then proceeded to the Scala Sancta - the Holy Steps which Jesus ascended before Pontius Pilate - where we prayed with profound reverence, completing a day of deep spiritual reflection at some of Rome’s most sacred sites. On Wednesday the 8th of October, we rose early for the Papal General Audience at St. Peter’s Basilica, where we were blessed to hear the Catechesis of His Holiness on hope, perseverance, and steadfast faith in times of hardship. Afterwards, we passed through the final Holy Door at St. Peter’s Basilica, praying and reflecting deeply on God’s mercy, thus completing our pilgrimage through the four doors with hearts filled with gratitude and renewed faith. At St. Peter’s, we were privileged to be received in audience by His Holiness, Pope Leo XIV @Pontifex, to whom we humbly appealed for prayers for our beloved country, Nigeria. Along the way, we met several Nigerian pilgrims: men and women of faith whose faces shone with quiet hope. Together, we renewed our trust in God’s divine mercy and in the promise of a renewed and better Nigeria. I believe fervently in the power and providence of God. Yet, as we lift our nation before Him in prayer, we must not surrender to fatalism. Faith does not absolve us of responsibility; rather, it calls us to action. As Nigerians, we must each continue to do our part - with honesty, diligence, and love - for the healing and progress of our country. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 12 Oct 2025 | 1,713 | 517 | |
Tackling Public Health Emergencies.
As the world celebrates Mental Health Day this weekend, it is troubling to note that a nation like Nigeria has deepening mental health crises which recent report from World Health… Full textTackling Public Health Emergencies. As the world celebrates Mental Health Day this weekend, it is troubling to note that a nation like Nigeria has deepening mental health crises which recent report from World Health Organisation (WHO) estimated that about 40 million people are living with mental health conditions, and grossly fewer doctors to attend to mental health, as fewer than 300 psychiatrists are available in the country. This clearly shows Nigeria’s growing disinterest and neglect of the health sector. Mental health is more important than physical health. Nigerians are now feeling so overwhelmed by hardship that they are mentally affected. Poverty, unemployment, and the daily battle to survive have pushed many of our people, especially the youth, into hopelessness, criminality and an increasing rate of suicide. The government must treat this as a public health emergency. Nigeria needs more mental health professionals and a massive investment in mental health infrastructure with well-equipped psychiatric hospitals in all geopolitical zones. We must also address the issues of poverty, unemployment and hunger that are contributing to this mental problem and build a nation that heals, uplifts, and gives every citizen a reason to live. Nigeria’s progress will never be measured by the wealth of its leaders but by human capital, which is the well-being of its people. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 11 Oct 2025 | 226 | 28 | |
Empowering the Girl Child: Securing Our Common Future
Today, as the world marks the International Day of the Girl Child, we are reminded of the immense potential that lies within every girl when she is given the right… Full textEmpowering the Girl Child: Securing Our Common Future Today, as the world marks the International Day of the Girl Child, we are reminded of the immense potential that lies within every girl when she is given the right opportunities to learn, grow, and lead. Sadly, in Nigeria today, more than 29 million children remain out of school, and the majority of them are girls. This grim reality confronts us with an uncomfortable truth: we are failing to safeguard the dreams and future of our daughters. A society that neglects its girls undermines its own progress and weakens the foundations of its future. The empowerment of girls and women is the smartest investment any country can make. An educated girl becomes a pillar of stability in her family, a force for development in her community, and a beacon of hope for the nation. We must, therefore, commit ourselves to deliberate action—bringing every girl back to school, protecting her from abuse and domestic violence, and ensuring that she has access to education, healthcare, and dignity. The strength of our nation will be measured by how well we nurture the dreams of our girls and give them the tools to achieve them. When we educate a girl, we elevate a family; when we empower a girl, we transform a nation. Let us, on this day, renew our resolve to build a Nigeria where every girl can dream freely, learn confidently, and contribute meaningfully to our shared destiny. Happy International Day of the Girl Child. -PO | 11 Oct 2025 | 317 | 51 | |
I wholeheartedly congratulate our Super Eagles on their well-deserved crucial victory against Lesotho.
You have, by this very vital victory, once again lifted the hopes of millions of Nigerians who are looking forward… Full textI wholeheartedly congratulate our Super Eagles on their well-deserved crucial victory against Lesotho. You have, by this very vital victory, once again lifted the hopes of millions of Nigerians who are looking forward to your participating in the great mundial in 2026. As you prepare for the final group match against the Benin Republic, I am confident in your ability to triumph. I pray that your hard work and determination will be rewarded, and we will proudly watch you on the World Cup stage. Well done, Super Eagles, once again, you have made Nigeria proud. -PO | 10 Oct 2025 | 496 | 57 | |
Yesterday, 9th October, arrived in Abuja from Rome, where I had held a series of meetings earlier in the morning. Upon arrival, I was informed by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for the AMAC Chairmanship… Full textYesterday, 9th October, arrived in Abuja from Rome, where I had held a series of meetings earlier in the morning. Upon arrival, I was informed by the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for the AMAC Chairmanship election scheduled for February 21st, 2026 - Dr. Moses Paul (@drmopaul) - about the plight of a public primary school in Tungan Nasara, FCT, that has been struggling with extremely poor toilet facilities. In line with my continued commitment to investing in education across our dear nation, I immediately visited Tungan Nasara LEA Primary School in the FCT. I was deeply saddened by the deplorable condition of the facilities, especially the toilets, which pose serious health risks to both pupils and teachers. No child should be made to learn in such conditions. As an initial intervention, I made a personal donation of ₦2 million to support the construction of proper toilet facilities and to improve the overall learning environment. I have also made a commitment to return and assess the progress of the work. Our children are the future of our nation. Their learning environment must reflect the value we place on that future. As leaders, we must continue to prioritise education and the welfare of our young ones, ensuring that every Nigerian child has access to a decent education in a safe and healthy environment. Education remains the most critical investment in our nation’s development. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 10 Oct 2025 | 523 | 86 | |
A Man of Integrity takes his final bow.
I am deeply saddened by the passing of Dr Christopher Kolade, a distinguished elder statesman, diplomat, and exemplary public servant whose life embodied integrity, discipline,… Full textA Man of Integrity takes his final bow. I am deeply saddened by the passing of Dr Christopher Kolade, a distinguished elder statesman, diplomat, and exemplary public servant whose life embodied integrity, discipline, and ethical leadership. Chief Kolade was one of Nigeria’s finest moral voices - a man who lived and led with conscience, truth, and commitment to the common good. Through his remarkable service in business and diplomacy, he set enduring standards of professionalism and character that continue to inspire generations. At a time when our nation is in dire need of honest and principled leadership, his passing reminds us of the values we must reclaim to rebuild Nigeria. I extend my deepest condolences to his family, colleagues, and all Nigerians who mourn this great loss. May God grant him eternal rest and comfort all who grieve him. -PO | 9 Oct 2025 | 270 | 27 | |
Certificate Integrity and the Future of Nigerian Leadership
It is commendable that the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Mr Uche Nnaji, has resigned following the controversy surrounding discrepancies… Full textCertificate Integrity and the Future of Nigerian Leadership It is commendable that the Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Mr Uche Nnaji, has resigned following the controversy surrounding discrepancies in his academic certificates. That is a decent and honourable step. Similarly, we can recall that during President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration, then Minister of Finance, Mrs Kemi Adeosun, resigned after issues were raised concerning her NYSC certificate. These instances remind us that such matters are not trivial; they constitute serious criminal offences. As we approach the 2027 general elections, INEC and all relevant agencies must take decisive steps to verify and authenticate all academic and professional certificates of every candidate—from the President down to local government councillors. We cannot continue to allow dishonesty and criminality to sit at the heart of leadership. As a matter of urgency, this is the time for a comprehensive national review of the qualification and background verification process for all public office holders. Other nations, like Ghana, have set an example by thoroughly cross-checking the educational claims and credentials of all candidates before elections. Nigeria must not do less. It is appalling that our electoral body carries out little or no due diligence in confirming certificates submitted by candidates. Continuous discrepancies, false declarations, and forged credentials undermine the credibility of our democracy. If we truly desire a free, fair, and credible 2027 election, the process of integrity must begin now. INEC has enough time to investigate past complaints about various forms of forgery and false claims. Every incumbent and aspiring candidate must submit all academic certificates immediately for verification and public accessibility, clearly detailing schools attended from primary to university level. Let truth, transparency, and accountability form the foundation of leadership in our dear country. Only then can we build a Nigeria where public service is anchored on honour, not deceit. We must get it right. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 9 Oct 2025 | 518 | 116 | |
False Use of My Name for Online Promotions
My attention has been drawn once again to the activities of individuals and groups who persist in using my name to promote or endorse various online businesses and ventures.… Full textFalse Use of My Name for Online Promotions My attention has been drawn once again to the activities of individuals and groups who persist in using my name to promote or endorse various online businesses and ventures. Despite earlier clarifications issued by my aides, some persons have continued to exploit my identity for personal and commercial gain, thereby misleading unsuspecting members of the public. I wish to state categorically that I have no connection whatsoever with any of these endorsements or promotional activities. At no time have I authorised any individual, business, or online platform to use my name, image, or identity for commercial purposes or profit-making ventures. Such acts are fraudulent, deceptive, and aimed solely at exploiting public trust. The general public is therefore strongly advised to disregard these false claims and exercise utmost caution when encountering any online content that purports to represent or involve me in business dealings. Genuine information concerning me or my engagements will continue to be communicated through officially verified channels. -PO | 9 Oct 2025 | 408 | 60 | |
Humanity is paramount in my politics, no street urchins
Lately, I have heard a few people say that those who follow Peter Obi are low-class Nigerians, and some have even gone as far as calling them “street urchins”… Full textHumanity is paramount in my politics, no street urchins Lately, I have heard a few people say that those who follow Peter Obi are low-class Nigerians, and some have even gone as far as calling them “street urchins” and people of no value. It is deeply unfortunate that in today’s Nigeria, citizens now look down on fellow citizens in such a degrading manner. I have never and will never look down on anyone, except to lift them up. After all, we can only rise by lifting others. My involvement in politics has never been about associating with the so-called high and mighty, but about standing with the ordinary Nigerians whose voices have been silenced and whose resources have been stolen by the same “big names” who now parade themselves with all sorts of titles and names. No Nigerian is of no value. No Nigerian is a street urchin. It speaks volumes about the state of our nation that everyday Nigerians, are now battered by poverty and hardship, to the point their leaders refer to them as of no value, and urchins. Every Nigerian deserves dignity, opportunity, and care. That is why I will continue to do my part to ensure that the ordinary Nigerians enjoy a better life, one built on access to education, quality healthcare, and genuine efforts to lift them out of poverty. True leadership is not about mocking the weak, it is about lifting them up. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 8 Oct 2025 | 1,391 | 278 | |
Following the recent commemoration of World Teachers Day, I wish to sincerely celebrate all the teachers in our dear nation, Nigeria, whose sacrifices and dedication continue to shape the future of our country. It is a… Full textFollowing the recent commemoration of World Teachers Day, I wish to sincerely celebrate all the teachers in our dear nation, Nigeria, whose sacrifices and dedication continue to shape the future of our country. It is a day to appreciate every teacher across the country who continues to give their best to the growth and development of education in the nation. The tireless efforts and sincere commitment of our teachers are the bedrock upon which our educational development stands. Investing in education by also investing in our teachers through training, empowerment, welfare, and a conducive work environment is critical to national development. The teaching profession in Nigeria, unfortunately, has not received the due attention it deserves, as a critical contributor to national development. The severe shortage of teachers across the country signals a looming disaster in our education sector. A recent report from the Universal Basic Education Commission states that only about 915,000 teachers currently serve 31.8 million pupils across the country, resulting in a teacher–pupil ratio of 1:35, well above the UNESCO benchmark of 1:25. Solving such a manpower crisis in the education sector should be prioritised by a government that truly cares for the development of the nation. Beyond the number of qualified teachers, investing in their training contributes immensely to the growth of education in the country. Our teachers deserve to be equipped with modern methodologies, advanced tools and equipment required to deliver world-class education to our children. These are all part of the investment in education, which, as I have maintained, is the best investment any nation can make for its citizens. May I therefore, salute the courage, resilience and commitment of all the teachers in Nigeria who give their best to the nation - we see your sacrifices and we appreciate them. Your dedication to duty remains critical in building the New Nigeria we all deserve where your welfare is prioritised and your visible contribution to the nation is appreciated. My commitment to the growth and development of education across the nation remains firm. And my promise to revolutionise education in our nation remains sure. We achieved it in Anambra state, and we will achieve it in the New Nigeria, and our dear teachers will be at the vanguard of our educational revolution in Nigeria. Happy World Teachers’ Day to all our great educators, you are the true heroes of our nation's progress, and with you, A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 7 Oct 2025 | 212 | 26 | |
Lagos Demolitions: Law, Justice, and Compassion
A week ago, a team of concerned leaders visited the demolished Aspamda Market in Lagos. Since then I have carefully followed the reactions trailing the demolitions, our… Full textLagos Demolitions: Law, Justice, and Compassion A week ago, a team of concerned leaders visited the demolished Aspamda Market in Lagos. Since then I have carefully followed the reactions trailing the demolitions, our visit, and feel that other extraneous variables are affecting our compassion for each other as Nigerians. The situation calls for deep reflection on the relationship between law, justice, and compassion in governance. I recall an incident in the nineties, when I bought a house in the UK at 66 Donnington Road, NW10. While the building was still being refurbished, some squatters moved in. When I consulted my lawyer, he advised that I should write to them formally and approach the court. It would have been unthinkable for the state to simply wake up one morning and demolish people’s houses - especially when such houses were neither used for crime nor taken for any overriding public purpose. Those seeking to justify the current demolitions in Aspamda Market Lagos, and similar situations across Nigeria must be reminded that the law is not an end in itself; it is a means to ensure order, peace, and the protection of human dignity. When the law becomes an instrument to inflict undeserved pain - enforced without compassion or regard for human welfare - it ceases to serve justice. Even if, for the sake of argument, some of the affected traders failed to obtain the proper approvals, which is unlikely, was demolition the only option? If opportunities for regularisation truly existed, as some have argued, why were they not pursued? Does it truly serve justice to destroy billions of naira worth of investments and livelihoods when less destructive remedies could have sufficed? It is like punishing a man who stole a bicycle with death instead of imprisonment - a sentence grossly disproportionate to the offence. That is what these demolitions represent: a punishment that far outweighs any alleged infraction. My appeal is simple: governance must always balance law with compassion. A government should not pride itself on being legally correct if, in the process, it becomes morally wrong. Justice, to be just, must be tempered with mercy. These demolitions are a test of our collective humanity, justice, and compassion. Power must always be exercised with empathy - for it is in how we treat the vulnerable that the true character of leadership is revealed. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 7 Oct 2025 | 1,389 | 366 | |
The danger of making crime a norm.
Whenever I talk about Nigeria being a crime scene, those who are part of the criminality and their hirelings will quickly start their noise-making, attacking and blackmailing me. But… Full textThe danger of making crime a norm. Whenever I talk about Nigeria being a crime scene, those who are part of the criminality and their hirelings will quickly start their noise-making, attacking and blackmailing me. But how do you tell people that those whose integrity, character and behaviour are supposed to be exemplary and emulated in society have become the very source of the nation’s decay? How do you tell young Nigerians to be honest and upright when those they are supposed to emulate are the least to be emulated because they are criminals and dishonest? Certificate forgery is a serious criminal offence in all countries of the world. It is one of the most corrupt practices heavily punished. In one of my knowledge-seeking visits to Indonesia early this year, after interacting with several ministers responsible for Health, Villages, SMEs, Planning, and Education, as well as the Vice President and President Joko Widodo on development, I met with the Chairman of the General Elections Commission of Indonesia. I asked him about the educational qualifications required to participate in elections from local government to the state legislature, governorship, and up to the presidential level. He openly stated these qualifications to me. My team and I then asked a simple question: What happens if someone contests for public office with a forged certificate or did not attend the school he claimed he attended? He looked at me, surprised and shocked, and said, “That attracts immediate disqualification and prosecution. It is a criminal offence. He added, “If someone can forge a certificate, how can that person be trusted to lead others?” But in my country Nigeria, though the laws are same as in other countries, that forgery is punished by immediate disqualification, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) makes no effort to scrutinize certificates before the elections, over looks complaints of forgery and when you challenged after the elections, court will dismiss the serious criminal issues as "pre-election matters" without giving this criminal act appropriate punishment. INEC, even after the elections, does not bother to revisit or investigate these serious offences before the next election. The other concerning issue from all these is how criminals and dishonest people scale through all the scrutiny layers -security, parliament and government apparatus set to handle such. Even more disturbing, amounting to double tragedy, is that most of these dishonest people swore to an affidavit before a law court attesting to the authenticity of the documents they presented. We are now preparing for the 2027 general elections. INEC have enough time to investigate past complaints about various forms of forgery and false claims. Our Electoral amendments must include that anyone intending to contest for any public office, whether an incumbent or a new candidate, must submit all academic certificates to the electoral body immediately after party primaries, at least six months before the election. These certificates, alongside details of schools attended, what was studied and years of study, should be made public for verification within 90 days. This process must also apply to appointed officials, Ministers and even aides, because when dishonesty starts from the top, it spreads to every level of governance, just like it’s happening now. We must deal with certificate forgery holistically with the seriousness and level of criminality it deserves. Criminal offences should not be dismissed as a mere procedural matter. We must end the era where forgery and deceit are rewarded with power. True leadership must begin with truth. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 6 Oct 2025 | 1,364 | 365 | |
Today, Sunday, October 5, 2025, I participated as a guest speaker at the first Ubuntu Africa Youth Assembly webinar series of the Global Peace Foundation under the organisation's Africa Renaissance Initiative.
The… Full textToday, Sunday, October 5, 2025, I participated as a guest speaker at the first Ubuntu Africa Youth Assembly webinar series of the Global Peace Foundation under the organisation's Africa Renaissance Initiative. The event took place at the Global Peace Foundation headquarters in Washington, DC. I interacted with many young people across the continent who asked insightful questions about ethical leadership, accountability, good governance, and youth active participation in sustainable development and human flourishing. The Ubuntu Africa Youth Assembly aims to foster and strengthen ethical leadership, empowering African youth to become valuable actors in African affairs now and in the future through intentional engagement among themselves and with African elders who possess proven moral authority. It also aims to provide a continental platform where African youth and elders engage in ethical leadership formation and intergenerational dialogue, inspired by Ubuntu values, and foster collaboration for Africa's sustainable future. The webinar provided me with the opportunity to share ideas on continental transformation, grounded in the ideal of Ubuntu, "I am because we are." Collectively, we can build a better Africa when we apply the fundamental values of Ubuntu, caring for one another, living for others and our society, and dignifying our most valuable asset: the millions of young people across the continent. -PO | 5 Oct 2025 | 244 | 39 | |
Troubling security situation in Kogi and Kwara states
I am deeply disturbed by the tragic reports of yet another senseless attack in Kogi State’s Yagba West Local Government Area, where over 27 innocent Nigerians were… Full textTroubling security situation in Kogi and Kwara states I am deeply disturbed by the tragic reports of yet another senseless attack in Kogi State’s Yagba West Local Government Area, where over 27 innocent Nigerians were killed by armed bandits. The images are heartbreaking. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and the entire people of Kogi State. This comes as reports from neighbouring Kwara state say that nine out of 16 LGs in Kwara state are under bandits’ siege, who now demand food and drinks as ransom. The nine LGs in the bandit control include Baruten, Edu, Ekiti, Ifelodun, Isin, Kaiama, Oke-Ero, Patigi, and Irepodun. The security situation is now a national emergency. It is deeply troubling that insecurity has become a normal occurrence in our nation, where our citizens die daily more than in countries at war. This is not normal. Our citizens cannot sleep in their own homes in peace, our farmers are being driven away from their lands by bandits, our children are living in fear of being attacked, and our nation continues to bleed. Leadership must be about protecting lives and property, the most basic duty of any government. May God grant eternal rest to the victims, comfort to their grieving families, and give wisdom and courage to our leaders to protect every Nigerian life. -PO | 5 Oct 2025 | 655 | 138 | |
Yesterday 4th October evening in Washington DC, I addressed members of the Nigeria Friendship Association, a group of professionals that began nearly 30 years ago when many of them were younger and studying in the… Full textYesterday 4th October evening in Washington DC, I addressed members of the Nigeria Friendship Association, a group of professionals that began nearly 30 years ago when many of them were younger and studying in the United States. Today, they are accomplished professionals, mostly living around Washington DC, the Maryland, and Virginia Area (DMV) and beyond. What struck me most about them is their unwavering commitment to education, which they have supported consistently over the years, both in the U.S. and back home in Nigeria. Education remains the most vital investment any nation can make in its future. With over 24 million out-of-school children, the highest number in the world, Nigeria has over 24 million reasons to fear what lies ahead if we fail to act and address education. No nation grows beyond the quality of its human capital, and education is the foundation for building that capital. In a time when Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the world of work and innovation, education is no longer optional, it is essential for daily life. We must equip our young people with the knowledge and skills to compete globally, not just to survive but to lead. The efforts of associations like the Nigeria Friendship Association give hope that together, we can rebuild Nigeria through learning, compassion, and collective action. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 5 Oct 2025 | 361 | 65 | |
Honouring the Life and Service of Dr. Solomon Arase
Today in Benin, Edo State, I attended the Funeral Mass and Interment of former Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Solomon Arase, who served our nation with patriotism… Full textHonouring the Life and Service of Dr. Solomon Arase Today in Benin, Edo State, I attended the Funeral Mass and Interment of former Inspector-General of Police, Dr. Solomon Arase, who served our nation with patriotism and dedication. At moments like this, we are reminded that true legacies are not written in the titles or positions we hold, but in the values we uphold and the impact we leave behind. Dr. Arase’s contributions to national security and his reforms within the Police Force will remain impactful in our dear nation. On behalf of my family and the Obidient family, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. May God grant them strength and comfort in this difficult time, and may his soul rest in perfect peace. -PO | 3 Oct 2025 | 308 | 33 | |
Making Recovered Funds Impactful
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission's(EFCC) announcement that ₦853 billion has been recovered from crime proceeds within one year is a step in the right direction. The… Full textMaking Recovered Funds Impactful The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission's(EFCC) announcement that ₦853 billion has been recovered from crime proceeds within one year is a step in the right direction. The Commission deserve our commendation for this effort, even though we are aware it's just a tiny fraction of the funds looted from the public treasury by the Leaders. Beyond this recovery therefore, what truly matters is the utilisation of these funds in a verifiable and accountable manner, specifically in the critical areas of development, health, education, and poverty alleviation to benefit the people. Nigerians want to see impact. We must be able to trace where and how these recovered funds are invested. Currently, we have over 20 million out-of-school children in the country, the highest in the world. Similarly, we have the highest number of acute poor in the world, over a hundred million. In both cases, it is worse in the North, and all efforts toward reducing the situation remain imperative. If these recovered funds and subsequent ones are strategically invested, they would immensely contribute to breaking the cycle of poverty, illiteracy, and insecurity. For example, the Federal Government 2024 operational budget for Universal Basic Education contribution is about #251.47 billion, so to triple this sum will be an additional #503 billion. The remaining #350 billion can be shared directly to 19 Northern provinces for lending micro credit to the poor. Most of these states have long been applying for as little as #2 billion of similar funding from our development banks. Let this not just be another announcement of recovery. Let it be the beginning of a new era of accountability, where every kobo retrieved is turned into classrooms, hospitals, skills, and opportunities for ordinary Nigerians. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO | 3 Oct 2025 | 353 | 54 | |
I warmly congratulate the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Rev. Dr Matthew Hassan Kukah, on the official commissioning of the Bakhita ICT Centre by His Excellency, former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
This… Full textI warmly congratulate the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Most Rev. Dr Matthew Hassan Kukah, on the official commissioning of the Bakhita ICT Centre by His Excellency, former President Olusegun Obasanjo. This milestone reflects not only his enduring commitment to faith and service but also a tireless dedication to education and nation-building. As Nelson Mandela rightly said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” The Bakhita ICT Centre embodies this truth, equipping young minds with tools that will open doors, break barriers, and create lasting change in their growth and the growth of our nation. Once again, congratulations, Bishop Kukah, on this remarkable achievement. May the Bakhita ICT Centre continue to flourish and serve as a beacon of hope and opportunity for all. A New Nigeria POssible. -PO | 2 Oct 2025 | 155 | 7 |