Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has called on Nigerians to use the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary as an opportunity for serious reflection on the state of the nation.

In his Independence Day message, titled “Nigeria at 66: Looking Back, Looking Forward,” Obi acknowledged Nigeria’s abundant human and natural resources but said the country must honestly assess whether it is living up to the aspirations of its founding fathers.

He argued that Independence celebrations should go beyond ceremonies and patriotic speeches, saying Nigerians should ask where the country currently stands, where it wants to go and what steps are required to reach that destination.

According to Obi, Nigeria continues to face significant challenges despite the promises made by the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government in 2023. He identified poverty, insecurity, hunger, unemployment and the education crisis among the major issues confronting citizens.

Obi Raises Concern Over Poverty and Insecurity

Obi claimed that more than 140 million Nigerians are living in poverty and severe hardship, while more than 18 million children are out of school.

He also expressed concern over terrorism, banditry and kidnapping, referring to the recent deaths of 37 young Nigerians as an indication of the continuing consequences of insecurity.

The former Anambra State governor further cited concerns over hunger, maternal and infant mortality, youth unemployment and drug abuse. He said the situation calls for a serious review of Nigeria’s development priorities.

Obi rejected the idea that Nigeria’s difficulties are caused by a lack of resources. Instead, he argued that the country’s major challenge is its failure to convert its resources into improved human development, productivity, security and shared prosperity.

Sokoto IDP Camp Visit

Obi also spoke about a recent visit to Sokoto State, where he said he and his political associate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, held discussions with residents about insecurity, poverty, unemployment, education and drug abuse.

The delegation visited an internally displaced persons camp in Ramin Kura, Sokoto metropolis. Obi said the conditions faced by displaced women and children were troubling, particularly their limited access to education and healthcare.

He argued that Nigerians displaced by insecurity should instead be living safely in their communities, attending schools, farming and engaging in businesses.

Obi Outlines Proposed Approach

Despite his criticism of the country’s current situation, Obi said his message was ultimately one of hope and responsibility.

He said that, if elected president in 2027, his administration would pursue what he described as measurable and accountable governance, with greater emphasis on citizens’ welfare and productivity.

He said tackling insecurity would be a priority, with the goal of allowing farmers to return to their farms, children to attend school and businesses to operate without fear.

On the economy, Obi said he would seek to move Nigeria from a consumption-based model toward greater production, while focusing on agriculture, manufacturing, job creation and human-capital development.

He also identified education, healthcare and security as fundamental areas that should receive greater attention from government.

As Nigeria marks 66 years of independence, Obi urged citizens to confront the country’s challenges honestly while remaining hopeful about its future.

He maintained that building the Nigeria citizens want would require accountable leadership, responsible use of public resources and active participation from citizens.

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