Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has taken his economic message to London, arguing that Nigeria cannot achieve sustainable development without moving from a consumption-driven economy to one built around production.
Obi made the case after holding consultations in London with what he described as stakeholders on Nigeria’s future.
He said the discussions centred on economic partnerships, stronger institutions and ways of unlocking the potential of Nigeria’s youthful population.
But at the heart of the consultations, according to Obi, was the need for a fundamental change in how Nigeria approaches economic development.
“A recurring theme in all my discussions was the urgent necessity of transforming Nigeria from a consumer economy into a productive economy,” he said.
The former Anambra State governor argued that such a transformation would require deliberate investment in the people, particularly in health, education and enterprise.
For Obi, the challenge is not simply about increasing economic activity but creating an environment where Nigerians can acquire the skills, health and opportunities required to produce and compete.
He also linked economic transformation to the quality of Nigeria’s institutions, calling for a system where merit, integrity and competence are rewarded.
Obi said Nigeria must leave behind what he described as an era of “nepotism and compromise” if it is to unlock its full potential.
He acknowledged the depth of the challenges facing the country but said they should not overshadow the capacity of Nigerians to drive change.
“While our current challenges are profound, they pale in comparison to the boundless resilience and determination of our people,” he said.
The NDC candidate’s latest comments come as he continues consultations with stakeholders at home and abroad ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
He maintained that with the right investment in human capital and stronger institutions, Nigeria could turn its large youth population into a major economic asset.
“A New Nigeria is POssible,” Obi said.