Nigeria Democratic Congress NDC presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has reiterated the need for competent leadership, stronger democratic institutions, and productive international partnerships as key drivers of Nigeria’s development beyond the 2027 general elections.
Obi made the remarks during a high-level roundtable discussion titled “Nigeria in 2027 and Beyond,” hosted by the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) at its office in Berlin, Germany.
According to Obi, the event brought together policymakers, diplomats, development experts, business leaders, representatives of international organisations, and members of the international media to deliberate on Nigeria’s future and its place in an increasingly interconnected global landscape.
The discussions focused on Nigeria’s democratic trajectory beyond 2027, development cooperation, international relations, and strategies for strengthening bilateral partnerships capable of accelerating economic growth and improving citizens’ welfare.
A major theme of the dialogue was the importance of supporting Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), which Obi described as the backbone of productive economies due to their role in job creation, innovation, wealth generation, and sustainable development.
Participants also exchanged views on strengthening democratic institutions, expanding trade and investment, improving governance, promoting regional stability, and creating an enabling environment capable of attracting both local and foreign investment.
Obi said he was encouraged by the strong interest shown by participants in Nigeria’s future, noting that the attendance of senior representatives from the German Federal Government, development agencies, business associations, policy institutes, foundations, international organisations, and global media reflected Nigeria’s strategic importance on the international stage.
During the engagement, Obi maintained that Nigeria possesses the human and natural resources required to become a prosperous, secure, and globally competitive nation. He argued that achieving that goal would require competent, accountable, and compassionate leadership committed to investing in education, healthcare, productive enterprise, the rule of law, and strong institutions.
He further stressed the need for Nigeria to transition from a consumption-driven economy to one centred on production, fiscal responsibility, and sustainable development through effective governance and international cooperation.
Obi expressed appreciation to the European Council on Foreign Relations for the invitation and thanked participants for what he described as a frank and constructive exchange of ideas aimed at strengthening partnerships for the benefit of Nigeria, Africa, and the wider international community.
He concluded with his familiar message: “A New Nigeria is Possible.”
