Abuja, Nigeria — Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has outlined what he described as a comprehensive roadmap for Nigeria’s economic recovery, security, governance, and national development, while offering a critique of the policy direction of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
Speaking during an interview on Sunday Politics with Seun Okinbaloye on Channels Television, Obi reaffirmed his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election, maintaining that his ambition is motivated by a desire to improve Nigeria rather than personal political aspirations.
“I am not desperate to become President of Nigeria. I am desperate to see Nigeria work. If it is working, I will support whatever makes it work,” Obi said.
Reaffirms 2027 Ambition and One-Term Pledge
Obi reiterated his commitment to contest the 2027 presidential election, promising leadership founded on competence, transparency, accountability, and measurable performance.
He also renewed his pledge to serve only one term if elected, explaining that he would honour any political arrangement built on equity, fairness, justice, and national unity, arguing that keeping political agreements strengthens public trust and democratic stability.
Economy: Production Over Consumption
A major focus of the interview was Obi’s call for a transition from a consumption-driven economy to one centred on production and industrial growth.
According to him, Nigeria’s economic future depends on expanding domestic production through:
Agricultural modernisation;
Industrial manufacturing;
Support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs);
Export-oriented production;
Youth entrepreneurship;
Technology and innovation; and
Investment in productive infrastructure.
Obi argued that increased production would create jobs, strengthen the naira, reduce inflation over time, expand exports, and boost government revenue without excessive borrowing.
He criticised the current administration’s economic management, saying many Nigerians continue to struggle with rising living costs despite reports of macroeconomic improvements.
The Tinubu administration, however, has consistently defended its economic reforms—including fuel subsidy removal, foreign exchange liberalisation, and fiscal restructuring—as necessary measures to restore macroeconomic stability, improve investor confidence, and place the economy on a sustainable growth path.
Security Through Economic Development
On security, Obi described insecurity as one of Nigeria’s greatest challenges, arguing that military operations alone cannot solve the crisis.
He proposed a broader strategy that combines:
Intelligence-led policing;
Improved coordination among security agencies;
Modern surveillance technology;
Strong political leadership;
Economic empowerment;
Job creation; and
Poverty reduction.
According to Obi, sustainable security requires addressing the socio-economic conditions that fuel crime and violence.
The Tinubu administration maintains that intensified military operations and security reforms are gradually improving the country’s security situation, while critics contend that persistent kidnappings, attacks on communities, and displacement of citizens indicate that broader institutional reforms remain necessary.
Fiscal Discipline and Accountable Governance
Obi also called for prudent management of public resources, arguing that government spending should prioritise investments that deliver measurable benefits to citizens.
He advocated:
Reduced wasteful expenditure;
Greater transparency;
Stronger anti-corruption measures;
Improved budget implementation; and
Accountability in public finance.
The former governor maintained that public office is a public trust and that government resources should be managed responsibly to improve citizens’ welfare.
National Unity and Inclusive Leadership
Addressing national cohesion, Obi said Nigeria’s diversity should be viewed as a strength rather than a source of division.
He advocated governance anchored on fairness, justice, equal opportunity, merit, and inclusiveness, arguing that every Nigerian should feel represented regardless of ethnicity, religion, or region.
Electoral Reform and Democratic Institutions
Obi reiterated his support for electoral reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s democracy. He called for credible elections, transparent vote counting, judicial independence, and respect for the rule of law, saying public confidence in democratic institutions is essential for national development.
Presidential Communication
The former presidential candidate also stressed the importance of direct engagement between leaders and citizens, arguing that Nigerians expect regular communication from their elected President, particularly during periods of economic hardship and security challenges.
Focus on National Issues
Responding to questions about repeated personal attacks by political opponents, Obi said such criticisms do not concern him because they distract from the country’s pressing challenges.
He urged political leaders to focus discussions on poverty, unemployment, insecurity, education, healthcare, and responsible management of public resources rather than personalities.
Vision for Nigeria
Obi concluded by outlining a long-term development agenda centred on:
Production-led economic growth;
Agricultural transformation;
Industrialisation;
Quality education;
Healthcare reform;
Fiscal responsibility;
Youth employment;
Technological innovation;
National unity; and
Accountable governance.
He argued that Nigeria possesses the human and natural resources required for sustainable development but needs disciplined leadership, institutional reforms, and transparent governance to unlock its full potential.
As political activities ahead of the 2027 general election begin to gather momentum, Obi’s interview presented his policy priorities while contrasting them with the Tinubu administration’s reform agenda, leaving Nigerians to assess competing visions for the country’s future.
