Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Peter Obi, says he is committed to serving only one four-year term if elected president in 2027, adding that he is willing to sign a legally binding affidavit to demonstrate his commitment.

Obi made the pledge during an interview at an airport, where he discussed issues ranging from security and the economy to electoral reforms, corruption and national unity.

Speaking on insecurity, Obi described the protection of lives and property as the primary responsibility of any government. He said tackling insecurity would require more than military action, stressing the need for improved intelligence, better coordination among security agencies, modern technology, enhanced welfare for security personnel, and efforts to address poverty and unemployment.

On the economy, the former Anambra State governor said reforms must be carefully planned and implemented with compassion. He argued that Nigeria should shift from a consumption-driven economy to one focused on production through investments in agriculture, manufacturing and small businesses.

Responding to criticisms that his economic proposals lack detail, Obi said his approach was straightforward.

“Reduce the cost of governance, eliminate waste, block leakages, encourage production, and create an environment where businesses can thrive.”

Using Bangladesh as an example, Obi said Nigeria has the potential to become Africa’s food basket if it secures the North and invests in modern agriculture, irrigation, rural infrastructure, and access to finance and markets.

“If we secure the North, invest in modern agriculture, expand irrigation, improve rural infrastructure, and guarantee farmers access to finance and markets, there is no reason Northern Nigeria cannot become the food basket of Africa.”

He added that agriculture should be developed as an export-oriented sector capable of generating more foreign exchange than crude oil.

Addressing questions about political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections, Obi said political parties are merely platforms for governance, while the focus should remain on assembling competent and patriotic Nigerians to solve the country’s problems.

On speculation that he would serve only one term to promote equity and national unity, Obi reaffirmed his position.

“Yes, you can do a lot in four years. You can change Nigeria in four years. I am committed to serving a single term of four years.

“An agreement to that effect has already been reached, and I stand by it. If necessary, I am prepared to sign further undertakings, including a legally binding affidavit before a competent court affirming my commitment to one term.”

He said honouring such an agreement would help rebuild public trust in leadership.

On criticism directed at him, Obi said leaders seeking meaningful change should expect resistance.

“Leadership is not about avoiding criticism. When you challenge a system, there will always be opposition. What matters is remaining focused, truthful, and committed to the people.”

He urged Nigerians not to lose faith in the electoral process, describing the 2027 election as a defining moment for the country’s future.

Obi also called for strict adherence to electoral laws, the effective use of technology and greater institutional independence to restore confidence in elections, while expressing regret over unresolved issues surrounding electronic transmission of results in the 2023 general election.

On corruption, he argued that leadership integrity is the foundation of effective anti-corruption efforts.

“When a president or governor is personally not corrupt, corruption in that government is already reduced significantly. Leadership sets the tone.”

Speaking on Nigeria’s rising debt profile, Obi said borrowing is not inherently wrong but should be directed toward productive sectors such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, manufacturing and technology rather than consumption.

He also described education and healthcare as investments critical to national development and said Nigeria must build credible institutions and stable policies to attract investment.

Ending the interview, Obi urged Nigerians to remain hopeful.

“Nigerians should never lose hope. Our greatest resource is our people. What has held us back is leadership. If we get leadership right, every other challenge becomes easier to address. That is why I continue to say that a new Nigeria is possible.”