Nigeria @65: Obi Decries Leadership Failures, Insists Great Nigeria Still Possible

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has called on Nigerians to draw inspiration from the nation’s resilience and demand accountability from leaders, as the country marks its 65th Independence anniversary.

In a statement released on Wednesday titled, “A Great Nigeria is Still Possible”, Obi reflected on the promise of October 1, 1960, when Nigeria gained independence and was hailed as a potential African powerhouse. He recalled that Time Magazine once predicted Nigeria’s rise as a true African superpower, noting the dedication of the founding fathers to build a nation of prosperity and pride.

Obi lamented decades of poor governance, which he said have derailed that vision, warning that the situation has worsened under the current administration.

“Today, the picture is bleak. Nigeria’s debt stands at about N175 trillion—nearly 50 per cent of GDP—without meaningful growth in the productive sectors. Our country has slipped to the fourth-largest economy in Africa, trailing South Africa, Egypt, and Algeria, while our democracy is increasingly described as ‘undemocratic’,” he said.

The former Anambra governor also criticised extravagant government spending amid widespread poverty, pointing to billions allocated for jets, yachts, luxury cars, and official residence renovations, while healthcare, education, and science remain underfunded.

“Billions are spent on luxuries that outweigh the combined budgets of teaching hospitals and essential ministries,” Obi noted.

He further highlighted the consequences of reckless borrowing, worsening insecurity, and corruption, which have stifled investment and deepened hardship. Obi warned that projections from UNICEF and the World Food Programme indicate that 33 million Nigerians could face acute hunger in 2025, while over 150 million already lack access to healthcare, education, water, and sanitation.

“Despite these challenges, Nigerians should not lose hope. The vision of a great and prosperous Nigeria remains alive. A society cannot thrive on injustice, waste, and misrule. Yet, just as we overcame colonialism and dictatorship, we can overcome today’s failures. A great Nigeria is still possible—built on justice, fairness, productivity, and dignity for all citizens,” he concluded.