Ideas leave a trail.

A Great Nigeria is Still Possible Statement by Mr. Peter Obi, Labour Party Presidential Candidate in the 2023 Presidential Election, on the Occasion of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, 1 October 2025 Fellow Nigerians, Today should be a day of joy and remembrance, a day to celebrate the struggles of our heroes who fought to free Nigeria from colonial rule. It should be a day for gratitude to Almighty God for His blessings on our nation. On 1 October 1960, Nigeria gained independence to global acclaim as an emerging African economic and political power. Such was our potential that Time Magazine predicted the rise of a true African superpower that would lead the continent with pride. Our founding fathers fought for independence with confidence, passion, and determination to build a prosperous Nigeria that would stand alongside the world’s most advanced nations. Unfortunately, tragic failures of leadership derailed this vision. Yet despite these setbacks, Nigeria has always shown resilience. In 1999, we overcame military dictatorship and restored democracy, beginning a renewed journey toward prosperity, freedom, and justice. That journey helped us build Africa’s largest economy and strengthen democratic institutions. But over the last decade, under the APC’s incompetent, divisive, and corrupt leadership, Nigeria has been greatly diminished. By the end of 2007, our total debt was about N2.5 trillion, only 10 percent of GDP, after President Obasanjo’s government secured debt forgiveness of over 30 billion dollars. By 2014, Nigeria had become Africa’s largest economy and was primed to achieve middle-income status. In 2015, for the first time, a ruling party was defeated in a presidential election, marking another milestone for our democracy. Today, the picture is bleak. Our total debt stands at about N175 trillion, nearly 50 percent of GDP, without any improvement in productive sectors. Nigeria has fallen to the fourth-largest economy in Africa, behind South Africa, Egypt, and Algeria. Our democracy is now described as “undemocratic.” In just one year, this administration pushed over 15 million Nigerians into acute poverty. Today, more than 150 million Nigerians lack access to basic healthcare, education, water, and sanitation. This number grows daily under an APC government that pursues brutal revenue-driven policies while ignoring the welfare of its people. Nigeria now ranks among the lowest in the world on human development indicators. This government taxes struggling citizens and small businesses heavily, while indulging in extravagance. Billions are spent on new presidential jets, yachts, and luxury cars that cost more than the entire 2024 budget for primary healthcare. The Vice President’s residence was renovated at a cost of N25 billion, more than the combined capital budgets of six major federal university teaching hospitals. Over N10 billion was allocated for car parks and canteens for the National Assembly, more than the capital budget of the Ministry of Science and Technology at a time when science is crucial to national growth. Meanwhile, Nigerians pay more for everything and receive less. Passports, permits, electricity, petrol, food, rent, and healthcare all cost more. Yet power supply remains unreliable, food insecurity deepens, and UNICEF and WFP project that 33 million Nigerians will face acute hunger in 2025. This government borrows recklessly, not for investment in productive infrastructure but for wasteful consumption. Insecurity has further crippled our economy. Nigerians now live in fear of travelling by road. Kidnapping has become rampant, with billions paid in ransom. Incompetence in security management has turned our country into one of the most terrorised and unsafe nations in the world. Cronyism, corruption, and disregard for the rule of law have scared away investors, while other African nations overtake us as preferred investment destinations.

The Lagos Trade Fair Demolition: A Test of Impunity, Justice and Compassion Today, alongside Senators Enyinnaya Abaribe, Victor Umeh, Col. Austin Akobundu, Tony Nwoye, Honourable Members of the House of Representatives, Segun Sowonmi, George Adegeye, Labour Party Lagos State Gubernatorial candidate, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour and coordinator of the Obidient Movement Tanko Yunusa, we visited the site of the demolished ASPAMDA Market at the Trade Fair in Lagos, where plazas were pulled down despite traders having obtained the requisite approvals. I must commend the traders for their remarkable restraint and calm in the face of such painful loss. I equally appreciate the Senators and the House of Representatives members who have pledged to investigate this matter thoroughly and bring to light the circumstances that led to this unfortunate development, and most importantly, ensure that the situation does not occur in the future. Beyond this immediate case, I urge government at all levels to act with compassion, fairness, and a deep sense of justice, especially at this difficult time. Many of the affected traders invested heavily - often through loans - in the hope of securing their livelihoods and contributing to the wider economy. To destroy such legitimate investments without due process is not only unjust but also economically destructive. A society that seeks to make progress must protect enterprise, encourage productivity, and defend the dignity of its citizens. Incidents like this should have no place in a nation that aspires to fairness, stability, and shared prosperity. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO

It is with a heavy heart that I received the news of the tragic killings in Oke-Ode, Kwara State, where innocent lives, including vigilantes and the Baale of Ogbayo, were cut short in yet another mindless act of violence from armed bandits terrorising our nation. Once again, our nation is thrown into mourning as innocent lives are cut short. These repeated attacks show the urgent need for an emergency on national security. No Nigerian should have to live in fear in their own home. We cannot continue to normalise tragedy. My heart goes out to the Governor and the people of Kwara State. I reassure you that you are not alone. And to the grieving families, please accept my deepest condolences. May you find strength and comfort in this difficult time and may the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace. -PO

Rest in Peace, Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu I am deeply saddened by the tragic and untimely death of Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, a brilliant young anchor with Arise News, who was killed in the most painful circumstances during a robbery attack in Abuja. At only 29, Somtochukwu had already distinguished herself as a gifted broadcaster and trained lawyer whose voice engaged, informed, and inspired many. Her loss is not only a personal tragedy to her family and colleagues but also a huge blow to journalism and to our nation, which continues to lose its brightest to insecurity and violence. This heartbreaking incident once again highlights the urgent need for us as a country to prioritise the safety and security of every citizen. No Nigerian should go to bed fearful of what the night may bring, or lose their life in such senseless ways. My thoughts and prayers are with her grieving family, the Arise News family, and all who mourn her. May her soul rest in peace, and may we, as a nation, work harder to build a country where lives are valued and protected. -PO

I am worried about the lack of response by the Government to the threat and eventual commencement of a strike by PENGASSAN, which is already having a very adverse impact on Nigerian citizens and the Nigerian economy. I strongly appeal to the Federal Government to intervene quickly to resolve this dispute in a manner that protects the interests of the Nigerian people, Nigerian workers, Nigerian Investors and the Economy at large. The protection of these interests in a win-win manner is the primary responsibility of any responsible Government. The Federal Government must learn to nip in the bud the labour crisis that has the potential of creating further suffering for the already struggling citizens of our dear country. -PO

Turning Nigeria Around: Insights from Global Engagements My last engagement of 3-day trip to the USA was defining and enriching, including over two hours of lunch and a walk meeting with the distinguished Professor James Robinson, alongside Professors Korieh and Utomi. Professor James Robinson was co-author of “Why Nations Fail” and a Nobel Laureate in Economics on “Prosperity of Nations”. My interest in meeting him was stirred by one of his penetrating observations, that there are nations in the world which clearly know the path to prosperity, yet consistently fail to take it. Among his examples was Nigeria. That remark struck me profoundly. It was not merely an academic statement but as a mirror held up to our nation. In our conversation, Professor Robinson reminded me that nations must possess the humility to remain learners if they are to advance. For me, the dialogue was both challenging and inspiring. It strengthened my conviction that Nigeria’s renewal requires difficult choices. With committed reforming and prioritising critical sectors of development, we can leapfrog our turnaround. Earlier this year, in pursuit of similar insights, I visited Johns Hopkins University to meet Professor Peter M. Lewis, the author of “Growing Apart: Oil, Politics, and Economic Change in Indonesia and Nigeria.” His comparative study of Indonesia and Nigeria - two nations that began with similar trajectories but diverged so starkly - posed an unavoidable question: why did one move in the right direction while the other faltered? To seek answers, I travelled to Indonesia itself, where I held constructive engagements with six ministers, a former Vice President, and Indonesia's most Popular President Joko Widodo. These encounters, across continents and with some of the finest minds and most experienced leaders, continue to deepen my conviction: Nigeria’s story is not a closed chapter of decline but an unfinished narrative with the potential for redemption. With competent and visionary leadership - rooted in capacity, character, commitment, and compassion - Nigeria can still be transformed into a nation of pride, dignity, and prosperity. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO

I am deeply saddened by the tragic incident at the Kadauri mining site in Maru Local Government Area, Zamfara State, where about 100 people are feared dead, with 15 miners already rescued and 13 people sadly confirmed dead. My heartfelt prayers and condolences go to the bereaved families and to the good people of Zamfara at this difficult time. I commend the Governor and the State rescue teams for the efforts made so far. The lives of our citizens must remain our most valuable resource and must be protected at all costs. This unfortunate disaster is yet another reminder of the urgent need to secure and properly regulate our solid minerals industry with strict licensing, adherence to global safety standards, and well-equipped rapid response systems. The safety and transparency of operations of our mining sites must be prioritised so that tragedies like this are prevented in the future. I pray that many more are rescued alive and may the souls of those departed rest in perfect peace. -PO

Certainly, no disrespect intended in my goodwill Message to His Royal Majesty. I felicitated with my dear elder brother, the newly crowned, His Royal Majesty, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja. I have read the concerns of those aggrieved by what they considered improper addressing. I respect protocol and authority, and I try, as much as possible, to adhere to them. However, those who follow me would have noticed that I often prefer to use the expression “my dear elder brother” when addressing individuals especially close to me and for whom I have tremendous respect. I always refer to His Royal Majesty Igwe Alfred Achebe, Obi of Onitsha, as my very dear elder brother in the same affectionate manner. In matters of wrongdoing, motive is important. I assure all that my words were borne out of untrammelled goodwill. -PO

The Urgency of Responsive and Competent Leadership Yesterday, Friday, 26th September, in Chicago, USA, I had the privilege of joining the Nigerian Association of Pharmacists and Pharmaceutical Scientists in the Americas (NAPPSA) Annual Conference 2025, where I delivered the Keynote Speech on the topic: “Harnessing Artificial Intelligence in Pharmaceutical Development and Healthcare Delivery.” In my address, I emphasised that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is concurrent with the digital revolution and builds upon it. As transformative as it will be across different aspects of human life - particularly in healthcare - I expressed concern that Africa, and Nigeria in particular, may once again fail to take full advantage of this global shift. The reasons are not far-fetched: poor leadership, weak policy formulation, and the perennial challenge of policy implementation. I drew parallels with our past experience with the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). While many Asian countries were able to formulate sound policies, craft strategies, and integrate these global goals into their national development agendas, achieving remarkable progress in critical areas, Africa has, regrettably, struggled to record similar outcomes. For African nations, especially Nigeria, to harness the opportunities of the AI revolution, competent leadership is non-negotiable. We need leaders with capacity, character, compassion, and commitment - leaders who understand the transformative potential of AI and can position our societies to embrace it as a tool to leapfrog development. Later in the day, I was also honoured to be the Keynote Speaker at another event held at the prestigious University of Chicago, with the theme: “Youth and Development Across the Diaspora: Vision, Purpose, Impact.” I was happy to be at this world-class institution of higher learning, renowned for its intellectual tradition, pioneering research, and lasting influence in economics, law, and the social sciences. The event was well attended and engaging. In place of a formal prepared address, I embraced the academic setting by transforming my keynote into an interactive dialogue of questions and answers. The conversation proved vibrant, thought-provoking, and deeply rewarding for all involved. I concluded by encouraging the participants to sustain and deepen their interest in Africa’s development, reminding them that the continent’s future will be shaped not only by policies at home but also by the engagement, innovation, and solidarity of Africans in the diaspora. -PO

Public Disclaimer on Misuse of My Images I am aware that many individuals and organisations use AI-generated images of me to advertise various products online. This unauthorised use of my image has gone on blatantly lately. Ordinarily, I would gladly support any genuine endeavour by Nigerians that contributes positively to our nation and to the people involved, but not without authorisation. Unfortunately, some unscrupulous persons have exploited such images to defraud unsuspecting members of the public. For this reason, I wish to state categorically that I am not associated with any of these advertisements. Despite numerous rebuttals issued by my team, these practices have persisted. This has therefore compelled me to once again caution the public to exercise vigilance and to disregard any such adverts linking me to products, endorsements, or business schemes. I remain committed to promoting transparency, integrity, and ventures that genuinely advance the common good of our society. -PO

Congratulations to Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I I warmly congratulate my dear brother, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, Arusa I, on his installation as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland. His ascension to this revered throne is a celebration for the people of Ibadan and a source of pride for the entire Yoruba nation and Nigeria as a whole. The enthronement of Oba Ladoja, a distinguished statesman with vast experience in business, politics, and governance, symbolises the enduring harmony between tradition and modernity in our society. As Governor of Oyo State, Oba Ladoja played a vital role in shaping the growth and development of Ibadan. I am confident that the same spirit of vision, dedication, and service that defined his public leadership will now find fuller expression in his new role as custodian of Ibadan’s rich cultural and traditional heritage. I extend my heartfelt congratulations once again to the people of Ibadan and Oyo State as they welcome this new dawn in their history. It is my earnest prayer that Oba Ladoja’s reign will be long, peaceful, and fruitful, bringing enduring blessings to the land and its people. -PO

Local Governments Must Not Become a License for Waste I have just read the disturbing report that the wives of 21 local government chairmen in Adamawa State were sponsored with public funds to travel to Turkey under the guise of leadership training. Today, while our children at the basic education level, whose education is the responsibility of local governments, are out of school, and those in school lack classrooms and teachers, while LGA pensioners are likely being owed, and teachers continue to struggle under economic hardship, it is disheartening that scarce resources are channeled into frivolities such as foreign trips for the wives of local government chairmen who have no public office, at an estimated cost of about ₦600 million in public funds. While I sincerely commend Governor Fintiri and his team for their efforts, especially in the area of infrastructure in Yola, Adamawa still remains one of the states in urgent need of investment in critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation. Such money, if directed at women micro-credit at an average of ₦100,000 each for women-led micro businesses, will uplift 6,000 women, which would be more impactful to the various LGAs, with about 300 women in each LGA being empowered, than this wasteful spending. Basic education in particular cannot afford to lose such a huge amount, as the over half a billion naira in question could have funded about 30 blocks of six classrooms at an average cost of ₦20 million each, directly impacting the lives of countless children and communities. We must return to prudent, people-oriented governance. Local government funds belong to the people, to the market woman, the farmer, the teacher, the pensioner, and every ordinary Nigerian who depends on government for basic amenities. Anything short of that is an abuse of office and should not be condoned. This is not only a glaring case of waste but a mockery of the very essence of governance. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Participation in Black Congressional Week Events in Washington, DC Yesterday, Thursday, 25th September, in Washington, DC, I participated in the activities of Black Congressional Week, with special emphasis on Georgia State events. First was the Congressional Black Caucus Week Reception, hosted by U.S. Senators Jon Ossoff and Reverend Raphael Warnock at the U.S. Senate Kennedy Caucus Room. Senator Warnock, a strong advocate for Africa’s development, encouraged me to discuss African democracy and development. Second was an engagement hosted by Georgia Power, the largest independent power company in Georgia, which generates and distributes over 20,000 megawatts of electricity nationwide. My conversation with the company’s CEO, Ms Kim Clark, was deeply insightful. Third was the One Voice Africa event, organised by a group committed to defending Black immigrant dignity. I urged them to take a greater interest in promoting good governance in Africa, noting that Africa’s potential is immeasurable if led by visionary and responsible leaders. Finally, the highlight of the day was the conferment of Honorary Citizenship of Georgia on me by the State of Georgia. For me, the day’s events were about learning, serving, and remaining committed to building a new Nigeria that is truly possible. -PO

The USA Trip and Reflections on Leadership I left Lagos yesterday, the 24th of Sept, for a 3-day trip to the USA, covering Washington and Chicago, with a stopover in Atlanta. I travelled with Delta Airlines, the first airline in the United States, which has been in existence for over 100 years. We arrived at Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the busiest airport in the world. It handles over 100 million passengers annually—about five times the total traffic of all Nigerian airports combined. The airport is owned by the City of Atlanta and generates about $32 billion annually (roughly Nigeria’s 2024 operational budget) for the city, and $70 billion (almost twice Nigeria’s 2025 budget) for the Atlanta metropolitan area and the State of Georgia. Atlanta City itself runs on an annual budget of about $3 billion (over ₦4.5 trillion). Its current Mayor, Mr Andre Dickens, was a businessman before going into politics. His key commitments include public safety, tackling crime, creating opportunities for young people, and ensuring a minimum of $15 an hour for council workers. He is estimated to be worth about $10 million. Yesterday, after meeting Mayor Andre Dickens, we both travelled on the same flight to Washington. At Atlanta airport, on the plane, and upon arrival at Ronald Regan National Airport, there was no special announcement of his presence, no aides carrying his bags, and no jumping the queue during boarding or disembarkation. In Nigeria, governors—most of whom oversee budgets smaller than Atlanta’s—and even local government chairmen, whose allocations are less than 1% of Atlanta’s, would have constituted a public nuisance with sirens, protocol officers, endless announcements, large entourages, and posters everywhere. Our public conduct and behaviour must change. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Where Did ₦1 Trillion Go? I recently read a report from the Development Bank of Nigeria (DBN) stating that it has disbursed over ₦1 trillion to Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Nigeria since 2015. By simple conversion over the said period, this amounts to more than $1 billion. I did not comment immediately on this claim because I wanted to investigate further, especially through my travels and contacts with small businesses across the country. The reality is that most of them are not even aware of any such disbursement, and over 80% are unaware of the Bank’s very existence. The level of knowledge about the existence and utility of such an institution is directly proportional to its impact on the people it is meant to serve. If indeed such an amount was deployed to support enterprises, the results should be evident. For instance, if $1 billion were disbursed in small loans averaging about $,1000 each, it could have supported at least 1 million small businesses. The ripple effect of this would have been no less than 3 million new jobs, with visible growth in enterprises, an improved economy, and measurable progress in lifting people out of poverty. But the reality before us today tells a different story: unemployment remains at a record high, businesses are struggling to survive rather than thriving, many enterprises are shutting down or relocating outside Nigeria, and poverty is deepening instead of reducing. So the critical question is: if ₦1 trillion truly left the coffers of DBN to empower Nigerians, where did the money go? How can such a huge sum be disbursed and yet ordinary Nigerians feel no impact? Empowerment is not a slogan or a campaign tool - it must be proven by results. Nigerians need to know where the money went. Who exactly were the beneficiaries? What tangible businesses were created? Where is the proof of jobs generated or poverty reduced? Without answers to these questions, the claim of ₦1 trillion disbursement remains yet another round of grand deception, where scarce national resources are captured by a few elites and recycled under the guise of empowerment schemes. Nigeria must insist on transparency and accountability. Our people deserve evidence that such vast sums are being invested in their lives and future—not lost to corruption or buried in empty statistics. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Clarification on Fake News and Photos My attention has been drawn to some pictures currently circulating on social media, falsely portraying meetings I never had. One of such images purports to show me with US President Donald Trump, alongside a fabricated claim that he praised me. Another seeks to depict me with MC Oluomo in his office. Let me state categorically that both pictures are fake and doctored, and the accompanying stories are entirely false. I have not met Mr Trump recently, nor have I had any such meeting with MC Oluomo. These fabrications highlight the persistent dangers of fake news and disinformation in our society. They are not only misleading but deliberately designed to confuse, misguide, and distract the public. Nigerians and the international community must remain vigilant, verify information before sharing, and resist the culture of propaganda that undermines truth and integrity. For the avoidance of doubt, if I had such meetings, I would have personally made them public on my X handle. My politics has never been about seeking praise or cheap publicity; it is about confronting the real problems of Nigeria and working towards solutions grounded in integrity, accountability, and transparency. My politics is strictly focused on addressing the plight of the suffering Nigerians, by tackling insecurity, rule of law, education, healthcare, and pulling millions out of poverty. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Farewell to a Faithful Shepherd: Bishop Francis Okobo Today in Nsukka, I joined the Catholic Bishops of Nigeria and the Catholic Diocese of Nsukka for the funeral of the Emeritus Bishop of Nsukka, Most Rev. Francis Okobo, at St. Theresa’s Cathedral, Nsukka. Bishop Okobo was the founding Bishop of Nsukka and faithfully served the people for 23 years, from 1990 to 2013. He was renowned for his selfless and Godly evangelism, which endeared him to the faithful of Nsukka. The massive turnout of worshippers—both clergy and laity—at the funeral Mass was a clear testimony to the depth of his service as a priest and a bishop for 59 years. The challenge of leadership in our country reminds us that those who live selfless and fulfilled lives deserve to be honoured with dignity. My condolences go to the Catholic Bishops, the Diocese of Nsukka, and the immediate family of the late Bishop. -PO

Over the weekend, I joined George Moghalu, the Labour Party’s governorship candidate, at a town hall meeting and campaign in Nimo, Anambra Central Senatorial Zone. Together with the Obidient family, I fully support @MoghaluGeorge because his campaign manifesto places human development at the heart of governance. He is committed to strengthening security, advancing education, improving healthcare, and lifting our people out of poverty—at a time when the safety of lives and property, as well as the future of our children’s education, remain critical concerns. Above all, beyond competence, George Moghalu has consistently demonstrated capacity, compassion, and character—the essential values of true leadership. We are confident that under his guidance, Anambra will not only make progress but also achieve meaningful improvements in the human development index, securing a brighter and more dignified future for our people. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Protecting our Security Operatives. Over the past weeks, the country has been thrown into mourning yet again with the reported tragic killings of our security personnel. The causality rages from our gallant soldiers, to members of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, to our brave policemen and even community vigilante members. Our men and women in uniform have paid the ultimate price in the line of duty, dedicating their lives to the safety and stability of our dear nation. These recurring killings should serve as a wake up call to us leaders to better equip and motivate our security operatives. Security must now become the foundation of governance. The memory of our fallen heroes should ignite in us a determination to build a Nigeria where no one’s life is valueless, not our security operatives and definitely not their families. Nigeria cannot continue to bury our men in uniform and leave their families abandoned. Our government must rise to the responsibility of ensuring that the wives, children, and parents of these fallen heroes are fairly compensated and supported. That is the least a grateful nation can provide. It is not charity, it is justice for those who laid down their lives so the rest of us can live. To every fallen hero, may your soul rest in perfect peace. Your sacrifice and patriotism will never be forgotten. And to the families left behind, you are not alone. May God continue to provide you with strength and comfort. -PO

Today, in Abuja, I joined fellow Nigerians to honour the life and legacy of Late Chief Audu Ogbeh. Chief Ogbeh was not just a statesman; he was a man of character and deep commitment to the service of Nigeria. He stood for principles that transcended politics, reminding us that leadership is about service to the people and fidelity to the truth. May his memory continue to inspire us all to pursue justice, unity, and development for our nation. May God grant him eternal rest and grant his family the fortitude to bear this great loss. -PO