Strasbourg, France — Former presidential candidate and leading opposition figure, Peter Obi, has called on European policymakers to develop a deeper understanding of Nigeria and Africa’s political and economic realities, arguing that many Western nations continue to operate with limited knowledge of the continent’s challenges and opportunities.
Speaking during engagements at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, Obi said his mission was to initiate an honest conversation about Africa’s development trajectory and the need for more informed international cooperation.
“I am here to start a conversation because I found out that the European Union and most countries of Europe and the Western world actually have little knowledge about Nigeria and Africa in general,” Obi stated.
The former Anambra State governor emphasized that Africa possesses enormous human and natural resources but continues to struggle with poverty, insecurity, unemployment, and underdevelopment due largely to poor governance and corruption.
According to Obi, the continent’s future depends on accountable leadership, investment in human capital development, quality education, healthcare, and the creation of productive economic opportunities for millions of young people.
He urged European institutions to strengthen partnerships that support democratic governance, economic growth, and institutional reforms across African nations, particularly Nigeria.
Obi further noted that the destinies of Africa and Europe are increasingly interconnected, arguing that a stable, prosperous, and productive Africa would contribute significantly to global economic growth and international security.
“Africa is a continent of immense potential, yet it remains the face of global poverty largely because of bad leadership and entrenched corruption,” he said, while calling for collective efforts to reverse the trend.
Political observers say Obi’s remarks reflect his long-standing advocacy for governance reforms, prudent management of public resources, and investments in critical sectors capable of lifting millions of Nigerians out of poverty.
The engagement attracted attention among lawmakers, policy experts, and members of the African diaspora, with discussions focusing on democracy, economic development, youth empowerment, migration, and strengthening cooperation between Africa and the European Union.
The meeting forms part of Obi’s continued international engagements aimed at promoting good governance, economic transformation, and sustainable development in Nigeria and across the African continent.
