ACCEPTANCE SPEECH BY MR. PETER OBI FOLLOWING HIS NOMINATION AS THE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE OF THE NIGERIAN DEMOCRATIC CONGRESS(NDC) โ MAY 30, 2026
Protocols,
Esteemed citizens of Nigeria,
It is with deep humility that I accept the role of presidential candidate for our party.
I express my profound gratitude to the leaders of our party. His Excellency Seriake Dickson, the National Chairman, National Secretary and the National Working Committee, NWC members and members of our relentless supporters, and the Nigerian populace who have steadfastly kept the spirit of hope alive. I commend those who have made the journey from every region of our nation to convene here in Abuja.
I wish to assert unequivocally: a New Nigeria is Possible. This conviction has united us; it must serve as our compass on the challenging road ahead and sustain us through all trials we may face. This pivotal moment transcends the individual ambitions of Peter Obi; it concerns the essence of our nation and the future of our children. It is about rekindling hope for millions who have faced adversity yet remain committed to Nigeria.
Today, our nation finds itself at a crucial juncture, enveloped in uncertainty. Families are anxious about their safety; parents are concerned for their children's futures; and talented youth increasingly question their prospects in their homeland.
Businesses are struggling, communities are suffering, and an alarming number of citizens have lost faith in the very concept of governance. Yet, I stand before you filled with optimism and strong faith in the resilience of our people, for I firmly believe that a New Nigeria is possible.
UNITY
To realise this New Nigeria, we must first mend the foundational elements essential for the success of any nation.
Nigeria cannot advance while fragmented by ethnic, religious, regional, or narrow political divides. We may communicate in different languages and practise diverse faiths, but we share a singular destiny under one flag. Our diversity should not be a source of division; rather, it is among our greatest strengths.
We should build bridges where others erect barriers, replace mistrust with confidence, division with understanding, and resentment with a collective purpose. A united Nigeria is indispensable. As Will Durant wisely pointed out, "A great civilisation is not conquered from without until it has destroyed itself from within." We must never self-destruct. We must heal, unify, and progress together.
INSECURITY
In terms of security, the situation in Nigeria has considerably worsened. The global terrorism impact assessments ranked Nigeria as the 8th most affected nation in 2022, 6th in 2024, and 4th in 2026.
Yet, for many years, Nigeria garnered global recognition as a reliable contributor to peacekeeping, regional stabilisation, and conflict resolution. Our troops have not only displayed bravery but have also shown professionalism, discipline, resilience, and empathy in the most challenging operational contexts. Our officers and personnel have successfully commanded multiple international forthe ces, safeguarded vulnerable civilian populations, monitored ceasefires, reinstated constitutional order, and contributed to rebuilding efforts.
Nigeria became one of the leading contributors of troops from Africa to UN peacekeeping missions and earned widespread admiration for operational effectiveness and leadership in various countries, including Rwanda, Sudan, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Mali, Western Sahara, Congo, Lebanon, Cambodia, Haiti, and Kuwait. At one pointin a Nigeria, Lt. General Isaac Obiakor (rtd) even led global peacekeeping initiatives.
We must address insecurity with resolve and urgency, for no nation can thrive while its citizens live in trepidation. The primary responsibility of the government is to ensure the safeguarding of lives and property.
"Don't be deterred by their threats to rig elections. This time, our votes must count. If it doesn't count, those who refuse count it, we will count them."
- Peter Obi on 2027 elections.
@osemagnum Dr. Ose, please some kind of disclaimer in the comment. Some people will interpret this literally and some will dig it up for whatsoever mischievous reason some time in the future.
My final engagement in South Africa was yesterday in Johannesburg with my interaction with Nigerians in the diaspora. The discussions were frank, emotional, and deeply reflective of the realities confronting our people both at home and abroad.
The conversation was interrupted several times by passionate questions bordering on diplomacy, the treatment of Nigerians in foreign countries, the political situation back home, and the growing desire of many young Nigerians abroad to return home and contribute meaningfully to nation-building, if only the environment becomes conducive.
I also reminded our people that the respect any citizen receives abroad is often tied to how respected their nation is at home. A country that works, protects its institutions, upholds justice, and cares for its people naturally commands global respect. This is why leadership and governance must remain people-oriented, accountable, and rooted in competence and integrity.
While acknowledging the frustrations and pains many expressed, I emphasized the need for all of us to continue to conduct ourselves within the ambit of the law, irrespective of the provocation or difficulties we face. Nation-building demands discipline, civic responsibility, and the willingness to pursue change through constructive engagement.
The interaction further reinforced my belief that Nigerians across the world remain hopeful about the future of our nation despite the present challenges. Our task as leaders is to inspire that hope with sincerity, measurable action, and a commitment to building a secure, productive, and inclusive Nigeria.
A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO
Good News: Nathan Nwachuku @_KingNath will be donating N40 million towards 2027 South East Maths Olympiad.
Winners of the Senior and Junior categories will get internships at Terra Industries in addition to their N10 million and N5 million prize monies.
In total we have raised N100 million towards 2027 South East Maths Olympiad.
Sterling bank @Sterling_Bankng N60 million and Nathan Nwachuku N40 million.
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We are making education more rewarding and exciting.
Within 10 years, we will be the greatest workforce in Africa.
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Open Apology Letter to the Obidient Movement
My Dear Obidient Family, I come before you today with a heavy heart, deep humility, and no excuses. Some time ago, in a moment of frustration and immaturity, I wrote and released a resignation letter as Director of Mobilization. In that letter, I allowed deep frustration & personal emotions to cloud my judgment. I made statements that subtly and unnecessarily dragged Peter Obi, a man I still respect for his vision, integrity, and sacrifice for this nation. That was wrong. It was childish, and beneath the standard I should have upheld, especially as someone who once held a leadership position in this movement.
I take full responsibility. No one forced me to write it. No one edited it. It came from me, and it was a mistake. I deleted the letter afterwards, but I know deletion does not erase the damage, the disappointment, or the loss of trust many of you felt. I understand why some of you no longer respect me the way you once did. You had every right to feel let down.
To Peter Obi himself (fondly called PO): Sir, I am sincerely sorry. My words were not a true reflection of the values of sacrifice, accountability, and constructive criticism that you preach. I failed in that moment. To every single Obidient, the ones who stayed grinding, the ones who defended the vision even when it was tough, the ones who felt betrayed by my actions, I am deeply sorry. You are the real heroes of this movement. Many of you are young people full of hope and fire for a better Nigeria. You didnโt deserve to see internal cracks turned into public drama. I let you down.
I am not writing this because I want something or a position in the movement as Iโm enjoying private life. I am writing it because it is the right thing to do. Leadership is not only about when the road is sweet and smooth; it is also about owning up when you mess up. I own this fully. I am committed to rebuilding trust through consistent actions, not just words. But I also know trust is not demanded, it is earned back slowly, if at all. Thank you for reading this.
Whether you accept my apology or not, I respect your feelings and your right to hold me accountable. The love I have for a better Nigeria has not changed. You all know me. My respect for the Obidient spirit remains. I am sorry truly.
With humility and hope for forgiveness,
Your brother in this struggle,
Morris Monye.
Oya come letโs hug. ๐
Our Children Deserve Enhanced Learning Environments.
Today, May 21st, I had the opportunity to visit Practising Primary School in Agulu, my hometown, which has been a cornerstone of education since its establishment in 1922. Unfortunately, the school suffered significant damage from a fire last year, resulting in the loss of a historical building that had educated generations.
During a previous visit, I committed to supporting the school's reconstruction and to helping create a modern, supportive environment for the students.
This morning, I was pleased to return and deliver an initial amount of 10 million Naira to help initiate the rebuilding process. Education is a crucial investment for any community, and restoring schools is essential for renewing hope and ensuring a brighter future.
I also took the time to engage with the students, encouraging them to take their education seriously. Their future will be shaped by the discipline, effort, and dedication they demonstrate today.
A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO
Celebrating Responsible Leadership.
Today, I join millions of Nigerians, sons and daughters of Onitsha Kingdom, and all lovers of culture, wisdom, and responsible leadership in celebrating His Majesty, Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, CFR, the revered Obi of Onitsha, as he marks his 85th birthday.
At 85, His Majesty remains a shining symbol of dignity, intellect, humility, and westernised service. His reign has continued to demonstrate that traditional institutions are not relics of the past, but vital pillars for peace, moral leadership, cultural preservation, and national development.
The Obi of Onitsha's life remains a strong reminder that leadership is about character, discipline, compassion, and service to humanity. In a society where values are increasingly challenged, His Majesty continues to stand tall as a moral compass and a bridge between tradition and modern nation-building.
As a highly accomplished professional before ascending the throne, and now one of Nigeriaโs most respected traditional rulers, the Obi of Onitsha has shown that excellence, integrity, and patriotism can coexist in leadership.
On this remarkable milestone, I sincerely pray that God Almighty grants His Majesty good health, wisdom, peace, and strength as he continues to serve humanity.
Happy 85th Birthday, Your Majesty.
May your reign continue to flourish in peace, honour, and greatness.
-PO