Dear beloved sports-loving Nigerian youths,
After watching the performances of Davido, Burna Boy, and Rema at the opening of the 2026 World Cup—at a time when Nigeria, the giant of Africa, is absent—I felt a measure of consolation. This was reinforced by the fact that many Nigerians playing for clubs worldwide are representing other countries. Felix Nmecha, for instance, set a record by scoring the fastest goal at six minutes for Germany. I write to you therefore, knowing that this country belongs to you, the youth.
You are more of stakeholders in Nigeria’s future than I am. I am 64 years old; by God’s grace, much of my journey is behind me, while yours lies ahead.
It is therefore imperative that you rise to the challenge by obtaining your PVC, your most powerful tool for driving the change you desire.
In the last three years alone, over 15 million Nigerians have turned 18—enough to decide who becomes President, Governor, Senator, Member of the House, or Local Government Chairman. Indeed, enough to shape the nation’s future.
I know many of you are sceptical about politics and political parties. I understand why, but scepticism must not become surrender.
You do not need to belong to any party or wait for anyone to organise you. Organise yourselves in your streets, campuses, communities, workplaces, churches, mosques, and social groups. Mobilise, debate, demand accountability, and take part in choosing those you wish to entrust with leadership.
If you are organised and wish to hear directly from me, invite me. I will come and share my plans for you and our nation.
Do not sit on the sidelines while others decide your future.
I appeal to you to register and vote. Your vote can shape who becomes the next President of our country.
My young friends, this is your country. Take it back.
A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO
Fellow Nigerians, good morning.
I woke up this morning after my church service with a deeply reflective heart, and despite every constraint, I felt compelled to share these thoughts with you.
Many people do not truly understand the silent pains some of us carry daily—the private struggles, emotional burdens, and quiet battles we face while trying to survive and serve sincerely in difficult circumstances.
We now live in an environment that has become increasingly toxic, where the very system that should protect and create opportunities for decent living often works against the people—a society where intimidation, insecurity, endless scrutiny, and discouragement have become normal.
More painful is when some of those you associate with, believing you would find understanding and solidarity among them, become part of the pressure you face. Some who publicly identify with you privately distance themselves or join in unfair criticism.
We live in a society where humility is mistaken for weakness, respect is seen as a lack of courage, and compassion is treated as foolishness—a system where treating people equally is questioned simply because you refuse to worship status, tribe, class, or power.
Personally, I have never looked down on anyone except to uplift them. I have never used privilege, position, or resources to oppress others, intimidate the weak, or make people feel small. To me, leadership has always been about service, sacrifice, and helping others rise.
Let me state clearly: my decision to leave the ADC is not because our highly respected Chairman, Senator David Mark, treated me badly, nor because my leader and elder brother, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, or any other respected leaders did anything personally wrong to me. I will continue to respect them.
However, the same Nigerian state and its agents that created unnecessary crises and hostility within the Labour Party that forced me to leave now appear to be finding their way into the ADC, with endless court cases, internal battles, suspicion, and division, instead of focusing on deeper national problems and playing politics built more on control and exclusion than on service and nation-building.
Even within spaces where one labours sincerely, one is sometimes treated like an outsider in one’s own home. You and your team become easy targets for every failure, frustration, or misunderstanding, as though honest contribution has become a favour being tolerated rather than appreciated.
And when you choose to leave so that those you are leaving can have peace, and you step out into the cold, you are still maligned and your character is questioned. Despite all your efforts to continue working for a better Nigeria and engaging people with sincerity and goodwill, those who do not wish you well continue to attack your character and question your intentions.
There are moments I ask God in prayer: Why is doing the right thing often misconstrued as wrongdoing in our country? Why is integrity not valued? Why is the prudent management of resources, especially when invested in critical areas like education and healthcare, wrongly labelled as stinginess? Why are humility and obedience to the rule of law often taken to be weakness rather than discipline?
Let me assure all that I am not desperate to be President, Vice President, or Senate President. I am desperate to see a society that can console a mother whose child has been kidnapped or killed while going to school or work. I am desperate to see a Nigeria where people will not live in IDP camps but in their homes. I am desperate for a country where Nigerian citizens do not go to bed hungry, not knowing where their next meal will come from.
Yet, despite everything, I remain resolute. I firmly believe that Nigeria can still become a country with competent leadership based on justice, compassion, and equal opportunity for all.
A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO
ACCEPTANCE SPEECH BY MR. PETER OBI FOLLOWING HIS NOMINATION AS THE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE OF THE NIGERIAN DEMOCRATIC CONGRESS(NDC) – 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.
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
Earlier today, I arrived in Cape Town, South Africa, to take part in the Spier Dialogue 2026, an important event centred on the future of Africa and the urgent challenges facing our continent and the globe.
The Spier Dialogue occurs at a crucial time as Africa grapples with significant issues in governance, democracy, economic inclusion, urbanisation, migration, and leadership. However, it also highlights the vast opportunities presented by the energy and creativity of our young population.
As leaders and stakeholders gather from various regions, I look forward to partaking in insightful discussions, especially as I have the privilege of addressing attendees tomorrow on policies geared toward growth.
Africa’s future should not be characterised by poverty amid abundance or by division instead of development. It is time for us to transition from consumption to production, from divisive politics to politics built on competence and compassion, and from mere promises to tangible progress that serves everyday citizens.
Upon my arrival, I had the opportunity to meet with the Nigerian community in Cape Town for a heartfelt discussion about the recent challenges affecting African expatriates in South Africa, resulting in over two hours of fruitful dialogue.
I remain dedicated to advocating for a New Nigeria and a New Africa—one where governance genuinely serves the people, where the youth are equipped with education and opportunities, and where leadership is founded on integrity, service, and sacrifice.
A New Nigeria POssible. -PO
There are places we pass through in life… and there are places that become part of who we are.
Manchester will forever be my home.
To the city, the club, and every supporter, my sincerest thank you. These past four years have been unforgettable, filled with moments my family and I will carry with us for the rest of our lives. There simply aren’t enough words to describe the happiness and warmth we’ve felt here.
Thank you for every cheer, every memory, and for making us feel at home from the very first day.
Forever a Red Devil ❤️
"Some men change their party for the sake of their principles; others change their principles for the sake of their party." Winston Churchill
Today, May 9th, I attended the 1st convention of my latest party, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Abuja, Nigeria. The convention was successful and continued to show the resilience of Nigerians to change
I express my sincere appreciation and gratitude to the NDC family, led by the distinguished Senator Henry Seriake Dickson, for inviting us and for the generosity of spirit with which they have accommodated us at this critical moment in our national journey.
I also wish to express profound gratitude to the African Democratic Congress(ADC), particularly Distinguished Senator David Mark, for providing a democratic platform and showing uncommon understanding when the ongoing litigation forced us out of the Labour Party and the New Nigeria People's Party, NNPP respectively. That spirit of solidarity must remain the foundation upon which a better Nigeria will be built.
Today, the most painful aspect of our political existence is that many who once benefited from democratic governance have now become willing accessories to the destruction of democracy itself. Those who once fought for justice now openly celebrate electoral injustice. Those who once spoke against impunity now defend coercion, manipulation, intimidation, and outright political gangsterism, especially against opposition voices. What we are witnessing is not politics; it is a systematic assault on democracy and the will of the people.
Nigeria today stands at a dangerous crossroads. Our democracy is under severe threat. Our nation is drifting without direction, and our people are passing through immense suffering. Across the world, Nigeria is increasingly described as a failing and disgraced nation. This is not the destiny God ordained for our great country. It was not always so, and it must never be allowed to remain so.
Across virtually every recognised indicator of good governance - accountability, political stability, rule of law, control of corruption, government effectiveness, regulatory quality, and the separation of powers - Nigeria continues to record alarming failures. The institutions that should protect the people are weakening daily, while the burden on ordinary citizens grows heavier with each passing moment.
Today, over 140 million Nigerians live in multidimensional poverty. Tens of millions of young people remain unemployed or underemployed. Inflation continues to crush families. Businesses are shutting down. Farmers can no longer safely access their farms. Communities live in fear. In this month alone, hundreds of innocent Nigerians have lost their lives to insecurity, while many others have been kidnapped, displaced, or thrown deeper into poverty.
The most heartbreaking question confronting us is this: Who consoles the grieving mother whose child was abducted on the way to school? Who speaks for the father who can no longer feed his family despite working every day? Who defends the young Nigerian whose dreams have been destroyed by a nation that rewards connections over competence and corruption over character?
Our present tragedy is not accidental. It is the direct consequence of years of deliberate sabotage by a political class that prospers by dividing the people and weakening the nation. Nigeria is not a poor country; rather, we are being looted into poverty. We have abundant human and natural resources, yet we remain trapped in deprivation because leadership has failed to place the common good above personal interest.
Our choice as a people is therefore clear: whether to surrender to despair and national decline, or to summon the courage to rescue our country and rebuild it on the foundations of unity, equity, justice, competence, and productivity.
Still in Bauchi State.
Finally as part of my itinerary in Bauchi state on Thursday 23rd, 2026, after meeting with the state Governor,
Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, visiting Madarasatu Intisharul Islam Qismu Tahfizul, Qur'an, Yelwa, Malikiya College of Nursing Sciences, Bauchi, I also visited Thomas Moore School of Health, Sciences and Technology, Bauchi.
I had visited the institution in the past and donated 10 million naira, which, according to management, contributed immensely to modernising their laboratories.
During my visit, I donated an additional 10 million naira to support scholarships.
Health is No 1 critical for development and we must invest in the human infrastructure needed for that development.
A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO
I ask you, my people, to empower me as your president and commander-in-chief. I will be in charge. I have the requirements for correct leadership: character, competence, commitment, compassion, hard work, honesty, humanity, and humility.
In continuation of my extensive consultations with Nigerian leaders, today, notable South East Leaders, and I visited our respected former President Goodluck Jonathan @GEJonathan on a consultation regarding the 2027 general elections and, more importantly, the future of our dear nation.
Our discussions were frank, thoughtful, and anchored on the urgent need to reposition Nigeria on the path of unity, security, stability, productivity, and inclusive governance. At a time when our nation continues to grapple with economic hardship, rising insecurity, and deepening social divisions, it has become imperative that Leaders across regions come together to reflect, consult, and act in the overall interest of the Nigerian people.
Nigeria today requires leadership that is guided not by personal ambition, but by competence, character, capacity, and compassion. The kind of leadership that understands that governance is not about sharing what is left, but about creating what is needed. We must move from a consumption-driven nation to a production-driven one, where our vast human and natural resources are effectively harnessed for the common good.
The 2027 elections must therefore not just be seen as another political exercise, but as a critical opportunity to reset the trajectory of our country. It must be about the Nigerian child who deserves quality education, the struggling entrepreneur who needs a conducive environment to thrive, and the millions of citizens who simply desire a secure and functional nation.
I remain convinced that through sincere dialogue, unity of purpose, and a firm commitment to doing what is right, Nigeria can and will rise again.
A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO
My ongoing nationwide consultations with notable South East leaders ahead of the 2027 general election continued on Tuesday April 28, 2026. We visited Governor @seyimakinde of Oyo State in Ibadan.
Our meeting provided an opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions on critical issues concerning our nation, the direction of our democracy, and the urgent need to build a united, more inclusive, secure, and economically viable Nigeria. We exchanged views on governance, development priorities, and the role of responsible leadership in this crucial period of our national journey.
The consultations remain essential as we continue to listen, reflect, and work collectively towards a better future for all Nigerians.
A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO
It takes a true leader, a father, someone with emphathy to understand that competitive kids need a spectator, a role model & unfettered encouragement, even for a brief second. That's what happened during a stopover on @PeterObi's way to Ibadan earlier today. A New Nigeria is Possible.
The Transformative Power of Sport
Sports have the unique power to forge identity and legacy. Iconic figures like Pelé and Plato - originally named Edson Arantes do Nascimento and Aristocles - carried names earned through athletic prowess rather than birth. This reveals a profound truth: sports are not merely entertainment; they are a crucible for character and excellence.
With this in mind, I arrived early in Ibadan today and observed the ongoing clean-up exercise. I parked beside the Lekan Salami Stadium, where groups of young people were actively engaged in basketball, lawn tennis, handball, and judo.
It was uplifting to witness their discipline and energy. Such scenes reflect progress and offer a powerful glimpse into the immense potential of our youth.
I made it a point to stop and encourage them because sports are more than just a game - they are a lifeline as well as a critical sector that deserves greater investment and support. For these young men, sports serve as a powerful engine for social mobility and personal reinvention. By instilling relentless discipline and teamwork, the field becomes a space where they can transcend their circumstances, sharpen their resolve, and transform their raw potential into a lasting legacy of excellence.
A new Nigeria is Possible. -PO
Last night in Onitsha
This morning in Abuja
This afternoon in Bauchi
This evening in Abuja
Friday morning? You find out!
Our man can move.
A bundle of energy required to fix and transform Nigeria....
ENOUGH IS ENOUGH ❗️
SAVE DEMOCRACY PROTEST❗️OCCUPY INEC:
Date: From Thursday 2nd April 2026
Time: 7am
NIGERIANS HOW MUCH OF BAD GOVERNANCE ARE YOU WILLING TO ENDURE?
EVERYBODY COME OUTSIDE
#savedemocracy
The ADC is not my cup of tea, but there is now reasonable basis to infer existence of a well orchestrated sinister conspiracy to truncate contested and credible elections in 2027.
From what is publicly available, all the Executives of the ADC resigned to allow David Mark and Aregbesola to emerge as the National Chairman and the National Secretary respectively.
The man who took the case to the court, Nafiu Gombe, claims that he did not resign as Deputy National Chairman, and that he ought to have automatically assumed the position of National Chairman “in line with the Party’s Constitution”.
Interestingly, the ADC held a National Executive Committee where the party ratified its new leadership led by Mark.
So, what’s the controversy here?
Is dispute over the leadership of a political party no longer the internal affairs of the political party?
It used to be the law that issues of political party leadership is non justiciable, or forum domesticum.
A Party’s NEC has the authority to decide who should lead the party.
If the ADC says they want another person to assume that role instead of the Deputy National Chairman, can the Court compel the same Party to submit to its Deputy?
Is this dispute justiciable?
Also, the Court of Appeal said the parties should maintain status quo ante bellum.
This means the state of affairs before the suit before the Federal High Court was filed by the Claimant.
Before the suit, who was the Chairman of the Party?
Was it not David Mark?
Is this INEC saying that the Order of the Court of Appeal implies that there should be leadership vacuum in the ADC until the case is determined by the Federal High Court?
Whose script is this INEC playing?
It seems that the ruling party, which prides itself as having over thirty governors in its fold, is so scared of a fair contestation.
If it is the desire of INEC for Bola Tinubu to contest as a sole candidate - unopposed, in 2027, let the Commission say so publicly.
It will save the country the billions of Naira budgeted for the ‘presidential election’.