The presidential candidate of the National Democratic Coalition (NDC), Peter Obi, has challenged Nigerian youths to take greater responsibility for the country’s future by embracing leadership, active citizenship and good governance.

Obi made the call on Tuesday while delivering the keynote address at the Babcock International Model United Nations (BIMUN 2026) hosted by Babcock University, Ogun State, where he said Africa’s youthful population must become the driving force behind peace, development and democratic progress.

Speaking on the theme, “Better Together: A Decade of BIMUN Advancing the United Nations Vision for Peace, Development, and Human Rights,” Obi urged students to prepare themselves for public leadership rooted in competence, integrity and service.

According to him, Nigeria must become a country where merit, justice and equal opportunity determine success rather than political connections.

“We must strive to build a society where the child of a nobody can become somebody without knowing anybody,” he said, adding that only strong institutions and character-driven leadership can deliver such a nation.

Before addressing the students, Obi met with the management of Babcock University to discuss the strategic role of education in nation-building and sustainable development. He commended the institution’s leadership for promoting academic excellence and maintaining an environment conducive to learning.

The former Anambra State governor urged young Nigerians not to remain on the sidelines of governance, arguing that the future they seek is one they must actively help to create.

He stressed that discussions on governance, human rights and the Sustainable Development Goals must translate into practical civic engagement and responsible leadership.

Expressing optimism about Nigeria’s prospects, Obi said the country could still achieve lasting peace and inclusive development if it empowers its young population and embraces competent leadership.

He reaffirmed his conviction that “A New Nigeria is Possible,” urging the next generation to become agents of positive change.