Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has described his closed-door meeting with former President Goodluck Jonathan as productive, saying discussions centred on Nigeria’s future and the need for collective leadership.

Obi, who led a delegation of prominent South-East leaders to Jonathan’s residence on Monday, said the meeting was part of ongoing consultations with key stakeholders ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a post on his X handle, Obi said, “Our discussions were frank, thoughtful, and anchored on the urgent need to reposition Nigeria on the path of unity, security, stability, productivity, and inclusive governance.”

He noted that the country’s current realities demand collaboration across regional and political lines, particularly in addressing economic hardship, insecurity, and social divisions.

“At a time when our nation continues to grapple with economic hardship, rising insecurity, and deepening social divisions, it has become imperative that leaders across regions come together to reflect, consult, and act in the overall interest of the Nigerian people,” he said.

Obi stressed that Nigeria requires leadership driven by competence and service rather than personal ambition.

“Nigeria today requires leadership that is guided not by personal ambition, but by competence, character, capacity, and compassion. Governance is not about sharing what is left, but about creating what is needed,” he added.

He also advocated a shift in the country’s economic approach, urging a transition from consumption to production by harnessing Nigeria’s human and natural resources.

Looking ahead, Obi described the 2027 elections as a critical turning point for the country.

“The 2027 elections must not just be seen as another political exercise, but as a defining opportunity to reset the trajectory of our country,” he said.