Peter Obi: Nigeria Can Become a Global Economic Power with Competent Leadership
By Passman Akpos
Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has reiterated his vision for a “New Nigeria” while addressing a high-level international roundtable in Berlin, Germany, organised by the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR).
Speaking after participating in the event titled “Nigeria in 2027 and Beyond,” Obi said the dialogue brought together policymakers, diplomats, development experts, business leaders, representatives of international organisations, and members of the international media to deliberate on Nigeria’s democratic future and its role in the global community.
According to Obi, discussions focused on Nigeria’s democratic journey beyond the 2027 general elections, international affairs, development cooperation, and strategies to strengthen bilateral partnerships capable of accelerating economic growth and improving the lives of Nigerians.
A major highlight of the engagement, he noted, was the importance of supporting Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs), which he described as the backbone of every productive economy. Obi stressed that empowering SMEs is essential for job creation, innovation, wealth generation, and sustainable national development.
The former Anambra State governor also said participants exchanged ideas on strengthening democratic institutions, expanding trade and investment opportunities, promoting regional stability, improving governance, and creating an environment that inspires confidence among citizens, investors, and international partners.
Obi expressed optimism over the genuine interest shown by participants in Nigeria’s future, noting that the attendance of senior representatives from the German Federal Government, development agencies, business associations, policy institutes, foundations, international organisations, and global media reflected Nigeria’s strategic importance on the world stage.
During the discussions, Obi maintained that Nigeria possesses the human and natural resources needed to become a prosperous, secure, and globally competitive nation.
He argued that what the country requires is “competent, accountable, and compassionate leadership” that prioritises investment in education, healthcare, productive enterprise, the rule of law, and strong institutions over what he described as “the politics of consumption.”
Obi further stated that Nigeria’s future depends on deliberate choices that would move the country “from consumption to production, from poverty to prosperity, and from division to unity.”
He added that embracing good governance, fiscal responsibility, and productive international partnerships would help build an economy that works for all Nigerians and restore the country’s global standing.
The presidential candidate concluded by expressing appreciation to the European Council on Foreign Relations for the invitation and commended participants for what he described as a frank, constructive, and engaging exchange of ideas.
Ending his remarks on an optimistic note, Obi reaffirmed his long-held message, declaring:”A New Nigeria is Possible.”
