2027 countdown: Obi pledges to unite Nigeria, tackle insecurity, poverty
Obi Promises to Address Insecurity and Poverty in Nigeria if Elected
By Golok Nanmwa
JOS, Nigeria — Peter Obi, the presidential candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), outlined his vision for national unity, security, and poverty alleviation during a town hall meeting with supporters in Jos, Plateau State, on Tuesday. Obi, a former governor of Anambra State, is campaigning to secure the presidency in the upcoming 2027 elections.
Obi emphasized his commitment to uniting Nigeria, stating that tribal and religious divisions are undermining the country’s strength. “Our number one commitment is to unite the Federal Republic of Nigeria because today we have no unity,” he said.
A significant focus of Obi’s campaign is addressing the escalation of violence, including killings and kidnappings. He asserted that his administration would work diligently to ensure the safety of all Nigerians, pledging to end the ongoing crises that have led to widespread displacement.
“If any Nigerian remains in an Internally Displaced Persons camp, we have failed,” Obi remarked. He further promised a vigorous response to criminal activities, stating, “Nobody will kidnap two children and disappear into the bush. If you kidnap children and go into the bush, you will not be alone there. We will come after you.”
Obi pointed to his visits to communities in the Bokkos, Barkin Ladi, and Mangu local government areas to witness firsthand the impact of violence on families, stating that these experiences motivated him to seek the presidency. He stressed the importance of active citizen participation in the electoral process, urging voters to protect and monitor their votes on Election Day.
“In the next election, every voter is an agent. Don’t vote and go home,” he advised supporters. “Take that day as the one day you are giving to Nigeria as a patriotic Nigerian.”
Regarding economic policy, Obi proposed transitioning Nigeria from a consumption-driven to a production-based economy, which he believes will create jobs and enhance living standards. He criticized the ongoing insecurity for hindering agricultural access and business operations, a sentiment relevant to the struggles in Plateau State.
Additionally, he pledged to increase bank credit for small businesses to facilitate growth and job creation. “Public money must be used for public good,” he declared, vowing to combat corruption and ensure that government resources are allocated appropriately.
Obi also addressed the pressing issue of education, highlighting that Nigeria has approximately 18 million out-of-school children. He expressed a commitment to improving educational infrastructure, recruiting qualified teachers, and enhancing primary healthcare services to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates.
In a separate engagement, the Gbong Gwom Jos, Da Jacob Gyang Buba, called on politicians and citizens to refrain from allowing election-related tensions to exacerbate insecurity. During a courtesy visit to the Plateau State Traditional Council, Buba urged all parties to engage in peaceful discourse throughout the electoral period.
“We already have insecurity, and we must be determined to live with each other in peace,” he stated, imploring for divine guidance in selecting effective leadership for Nigeria.
