The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has taken his campaign for a production-driven economy to Italy, where he held meetings with stakeholders on economic collaboration, institutional development and youth opportunities.

Obi disclosed this in a statement via his X-Handle after his arrival in Italy as part of his ongoing international consultations and engagements ahead of the 2027 elections.

The former Anambra State Governor said the discussions focused on areas capable of strengthening Nigeria’s economic capacity, particularly by harnessing the potential of the country’s large youthful population.

According to him, Nigeria must urgently shift from a consumption-based economy to one driven by production, investment and enterprise.

Obi said sustained investment in education, healthcare and enterprise development would be critical to creating a functional society where young Nigerians can build productive lives.

He also stressed the need for a national system that rewards competence, character and integrity rather than what he described as criminality, connections and nepotism.

“Though our national obstacles are immense, the collective capacity and resilience of our people are infinitely greater,” Obi said.

He added that his engagements in Italy left him encouraged by the ideas exchanged and what he described as a shared determination among Nigerians and members of the international community to see the country succeed.

The NDC presidential candidate said his international consultations would continue as he engages Nigerians and stakeholders abroad on ideas for national development.

He reaffirmed his campaign message: “A New Nigeria is POssible.”