Peter Obi: “I am not desperate to become president.”

By Enitan Abdultawab

Former governor and Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate Peter Obi said his political ambition is not driven by a desire to hold the country’s highest office, but by a commitment to making Nigeria work for its citizens.

Speaking on the Nevon HQ podcast hosted by journalist Rufai Oseni, Obi emphasized that his focus is on addressing Nigeria’s challenges rather than pursuing power for its own sake.

“I am not desperate to be president of Nigeria. I am desperate to see Nigeria work,” Obi stated.

The former Labour Party presidential candidate highlighted the economic hardship many Nigerians, especially young people, face, noting that millions struggle to secure sustainable livelihoods.

“I am desperate to see young people have a means of livelihood. I am desperate to see people stop stealing public money. I am desperate to see Nigeria work,” he added.

Obi also expressed concern over the growing number of Nigerians leaving the country in search of better opportunities abroad, despite Nigeria’s abundant human and natural resources.

“Today, all over the world, Nigerians are running to Niger, Ghana, and everywhere because there are no opportunities in this country, despite the fact that God blessed Nigeria with everything,” he said.

He outlined his vision for the country, stating that national unity would be the foundation of any transformation agenda under his leadership.

“I will start transformation by uniting this country, bringing it together to be a country everybody will be proud of,” Obi said.

According to him, fostering social inclusion and tackling poverty would also be top priorities.

“I will ensure social inclusion and reduce the level of poverty,” Obi added.

Obi argued that Nigeria’s challenges are not insurmountable, stressing that meaningful progress can be achieved through deliberate investments in critical sectors, particularly education.

“To do this, we will invest in critical areas of development such as education. These things are not rocket science. Countries across the world have done this,” he said.

He maintained that, with the right leadership, prudent resource management and investment in human capital development, Nigeria could unlock its vast potential and provide opportunities for its citizens.

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