Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has linked Nigeria’s failure to build on its historical legacies to persistent challenges in education, corruption and economic development.

The Former Anambra Governor insisted that tackling institutional corruption is central to building a new Nigeria.

Obi spoke during a town hall meeting in Lokoja, Kogi State, on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, as part of his nationwide engagements ahead of the 2027 general election.

Before the meeting, the former Anambra State governor paid a courtesy visit to the Maigari of Lokoja, His Royal Highness, Dr. Alhaji Ibrahim Gambo Kabir Maikarfi IV, who shared historical accounts of the city.

Obi visited the historic Holy Trinity Primary School, established in 1865 by Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther and Anglican missionaries, as well as the Iron of Liberty monument.

He said the school’s history was a sobering reminder that Nigeria, despite more than 160 years of formal educational heritage, continues to grapple with a severe out-of-school children crisis.

The NDC candidate expressed concern that the country had failed to adequately preserve its historical landmarks and build on the foundations established by earlier generations.

At the Iron of Liberty, he reflected on the historical collaboration between missionaries and authorities in the struggle against the slave trade.

Obi said the visits reinforced his belief in the need to promote domestic tourism, preserve national heritage and encourage Nigerians to explore the country’s historical attractions.

At the town hall meeting, discussions centred on corruption, agriculture, tourism, the struggling Ajaokuta Steel Company and other challenges confronting Nigeria.

Obi maintained that entrenched and institutional corruption remained at the heart of many of the country’s problems, calling for decisive action to dismantle the practices undermining national development.

He reiterated his commitment to national unity and security, with greater investment in health and education, stronger productive capacity and measures to lift Nigerians out of widespread poverty.

The former governor also visited a business owner whose commercial complex was recently destroyed by fire before interacting with traders at Kpata Market.

The traders reportedly complained about rising commodity prices and declining patronage, attributing the situation to shrinking disposable incomes among consumers.

Obi thanked the traditional ruler, party candidates, organisers and residents who participated in the engagement.

His visit comes as the NDC intensifies its nationwide engagements ahead of the 2027 elections, with the party campaigning on the promise of building a more secure, productive and prosperous Nigeria.

“A New Nigeria is Possible, and Nigeria will be OK,” Obi said.