The presidential flagbearer of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has provided an account of his discussions with British government representatives and Nigerians residing in the United Kingdom, stating that the engagements were aimed at exploring ways to restore the country’s development.
Obi, who previously served as governor of Anambra State, shared the information in a post on his X account on Thursday, October 22, following a series of consultations held in London.
The former governor disclosed that he arrived in the British capital at approximately 7 a.m. on Wednesday after travelling from Basel, Switzerland. He subsequently proceeded with several scheduled meetings involving various stakeholders.
According to Obi, his engagements continued until the evening, when he attended a gathering coordinated by the COPDEM Chief alongside the NDC Director of Diaspora Affairs. The meeting brought together other participants and members of the Nigerian community in London.
He explained that his conversations with British officials and Nigerians living abroad focused on identifying solutions to the country’s governance difficulties and creating a path towards sustainable national progress.
Obi stated that the discussions examined the collective obligation of citizens and leaders to address problems that have hindered Nigeria’s growth, particularly poor governance, corruption and inadequate accountability in public office.
In his statement, the former Anambra governor emphasised that the country needed a renewed commitment to responsible leadership and effective institutions capable of improving the welfare of its citizens.
He argued that persistent governance failures had prevented many Nigerians from accessing essential amenities and opportunities, including reliable healthcare, quality education and meaningful employment.
Obi maintained that the country must become a place where citizens can pursue their ambitions and improve their living conditions without facing discrimination because of their social status, personal background or political affiliations.
He stressed that every Nigerian should have access to opportunities based on individual ability, dedication and hard work rather than privileged connections.
The NDC presidential candidate further advocated a society where people could attain success through their efforts instead of depending on influential individuals or established networks to advance their interests.
According to him, Nigeria must be transformed into a country where citizens from disadvantaged backgrounds can achieve their aspirations without requiring special relationships with powerful people.
Obi reiterated that national development should benefit the wider population rather than a small group of individuals with access to political and economic privileges.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to the vision of building a country that provides equal opportunities, protects the interests of ordinary citizens and promotes responsible leadership.
Concluding his message, the former governor restated his popular political slogan, declaring that “A New Nigeria is POssible.”
The meetings in London come as political activities gradually intensify ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, with political figures engaging stakeholders within and outside the country.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Democratic Congress had previously announced a change to the date scheduled for the inauguration of its National Campaign Council.
The ceremony, initially planned for October 20, was moved to October 26, with the party attributing the adjustment to Obi’s ongoing engagements outside Nigeria.
