Peter Obi Criticizes Tinubu’s Policies, Saying Governance Is Not Rocket Science

By Enitan Abdultawab

Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, said that Nigeria’s problems can be solved through deliberate policies, investment in human capital, and inclusive governance. He emphasized that effective governance is “not rocket science.”

Obi made the comments during an interview on the Nevon HQ podcast, hosted by broadcaster Rufai Oseni. He outlined how he would address poverty, unemployment, and economic stagnation if elected.

According to Obi, national transformation must begin with fostering unity and a sense of belonging among citizens.

“I will start transformation by uniting this country, bringing it together to be a country everybody will be proud of,” he said. “These things are not rocket science. Countries across the world have done this. What they did is simple. I will deliver good governance to people.”

He added that his administration would focus on social inclusion and poverty reduction through strategic investments in key sectors of the economy. “I will ensure social inclusion and reduce the level of poverty. To do this, we will invest in critical areas of development such as education,” he stated.

Obi argued that countries worldwide have shown that development is achievable when governments prioritize the right policies and sectors. The former Anambra State governor also stressed the need to equip young Nigerians with practical skills, saying technical and vocational training would be a major component of his development agenda. “We must ensure that people go through technical training,” he said.

Drawing lessons from Indonesia, Obi noted that small businesses remain the backbone of many successful economies and deserve greater attention from policymakers. “In Indonesia, for instance, there are ministries of micro, small and medium businesses. Ninety per cent of individuals come from this level,” he said, emphasizing the importance of supporting entrepreneurs and small‑scale enterprises.

The former Labour Party presidential candidate also said his policy proposals would be clearly outlined in his party’s manifesto, which he disclosed would be released soon. “You will see our manifesto; the party will soon release it,” he said.

Obi also revisited the contentious issue of fuel subsidy removal, maintaining that while he would have ended the subsidy regime, he would have approached the process differently. “I would have removed subsidy, but in an organized manner. I would not have announced it on inauguration day. I would have sat down with experts before I made the decision,” he said.

The former presidential candidate questioned the impact of the Federal Government’s economic reforms on ordinary Nigerians, arguing that policy decisions should ultimately improve citizens’ living conditions. “Now that he (President Tinubu) has removed subsidy and deregulated the naira, what is the impact on average Nigerians?” Obi asked.

He maintained that Nigeria’s economic and social challenges require practical solutions rather than complex theories, insisting that good governance, investment in education, skills development and support for small businesses remain the keys to national development.

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