Former Anambra State Governor and Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi,  has called for a fundamental reform of leadership in Nigeria, saying the country’s progress depends largely on the character, competence and commitment of those entrusted with public office.

Obi stated this after meeting with a group of young Nigerian professionals, including medical doctors, healthcare professionals, educators, lawyers, engineers, technology experts, entrepreneurs and business leaders in Washington, D.C.

In a post shared on his official X account, Obi said the discussions focused on good governance, the challenges facing Nigeria and the urgent reforms needed to move the country forward.

He said:

“Yesterday, while in Washington, D.C., I had the privilege of meeting with a group of young Nigerian professionals — medical doctors and other healthcare professionals, educators, lawyers, engineers, technology experts, entrepreneurs and business leaders.

“It was an engaging and encouraging conversation about Nigeria, the challenges before us, and the kind of country we must work together to build.

“Our discussions centered largely on good governance and the urgent reforms Nigeria needs today. I reminded them that, important as our economic, political, and institutional reforms are, the most important reform Nigeria needs is the reform of leadership itself.

“No nation can rise above the character, competence, capacity, and commitment of those entrusted with its leadership.

“Nigeria is blessed

“We are not lacking in intelligent people. We are not lacking in natural resources. We are not lacking in hardworking and innovative young people. What we have lacked for far too long is leadership that genuinely puts the people first and treats public resources as a sacred trust.

“We need leadership that strengthens our institutions, invests seriously in education and healthcare, supports businesses and entrepreneurs, creates jobs and opportunities for our young people, and gives every Nigerian a reason to believe that hard work can still lead to a better life.

“Meeting these young Nigerians in Washington once again reminded me of the extraordinary talent our country has produced.

“Across the world, Nigerians are making remarkable contributions in medicine, technology, engineering, law, education, business, and many other fields. Our diaspora should never be seen as people who have simply left Nigeria. They remain an important part of Nigeria and must be partners in rebuilding our country.

“We must build a Nigeria where our young people do not have to leave their country in order to fulfil their dreams, and where those already abroad can confidently return, invest, contribute and participate in our national development.

“That Nigeria is possible.

“But it will not happen by accident.

“It will require responsible and compassionate leadership, stronger institutions, prudent management of our resources, and, above all, citizens who refuse to give up on Nigeria

“I remain convinced that our greatest resource is not beneath our soil; it is our people.

“If we get leadership right, we can get Nigeria right.

“We must continue to believe. We must continue to work. And we must continue to demand a country that works for everyone.

“A New Nigeria is POssible. – PO”

Obi’s remarks underscored his continued emphasis on leadership, institutional reform and the role of Nigeria’s young people and diaspora in shaping the country’s future.