By George Omagbemi
Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has called on Nigerians to remain hopeful, responsible and determined, declaring that a new Nigeria is possible.
Obi made the remarks in his Independence Day address on Thursday as Nigeria marked its 66th anniversary, while also expressing concern over poverty, insecurity, unemployment, hunger and other challenges facing the country.
“My message today is not one of despair. It is a message of hope, determination and responsibility. I dare to proclaim with full assurance that a new Nigeria is possible,” Obi said.
He said that, if elected president, his administration would make governance measurable and accountable, with greater emphasis on the welfare and productivity of Nigerians.
Obi said his priorities would include security, education, healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing and job creation. He also pledged to work towards ensuring that Nigerians displaced by insecurity can safely return to their communities.
“No Nigerian should be forced to live in an IDP camp because his or her government has failed to provide security,” he said.
The former Anambra State governor also cited poverty, out-of-school children, youth unemployment, food insecurity and drug abuse among the issues requiring urgent attention.
He referred to his recent visit to an internally displaced persons camp in Ramin Kura, Sokoto State, with Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, saying the conditions they encountered reinforced his concerns about the country’s social and economic challenges.
Obi concluded by urging Nigerians to reflect honestly on the country’s 66-year journey and take responsibility for building a more secure, productive and united nation.
According to him, Nigeria’s future will depend not only on political leadership but also on citizens demanding accountability and refusing to accept failure as inevitable.
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