Echezonachukwu Obiezu

God makes me special..

[Premier League @premierleague]

The first goal of the Premier League season is scored by...

Kai Havertz! ☝️

[Arsenal @Arsenal]

Have a fantastic day, Ethan! 🎂

[Arsenal @Arsenal]

Wembley awaits...

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

Channelling Our Women to Critical Areas of Development

While the rest of the nations of the world are investing in critical areas of development such as human capital, we lag behind. Instead of ensuring that our women—the vital segment of our population—are educated and meaningfully integrated into leadership and management structures, where they have consistently proven to contribute significantly to development, we fall short. This is evident in countries like the Scandinavian nations and even in developing economies. In Indonesia, for instance, women own over 50% of SMEs, which provide about 98% of jobs. Similarly, in Bangladesh, women make up about 60% of the workforce in the garment industry, the country’s largest export sector, generating about $50 billion—far more than what Nigeria earns annually from crude oil exports.

Rather than emulating these nations by investing in our women—who constitute more than 50% of our population—and harnessing their productivity, our focus drifts toward trivialities such as the Ozoro festival, a development that reflects poorly on our national priorities. This is a profound misplacement of values. Greater effort should be directed toward meaningful development, including policies and initiatives that empower women and integrate them into the economic mainstream.

If we redirect our priorities, invest in our people, and harness the potential of our women in critical sectors, we can rebuild our nation on a foundation of productivity and inclusion—transforming from a now disgraced country into one of pride.

With the right priorities and actions, a new Nigeria is POssible. -PO

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

My dear Muslim brothers and sisters,

I rejoice with you on this blessed Eid al-Fitr, marking the successful completion of Ramadan, a month of faith, sacrifice, discipline, and compassion.

May the lessons of Ramadan; love, humility, generosity, and unity continue to guide us. In these trying times for Nigeria, let us carry forward the spirit of kindness, extend help to the vulnerable, and work together for peace, justice, and progress in our nation.

I pray Almighty Allah accepts your ibadah, forgives our shortcomings, and grants you and our country abundant blessings, security, and prosperity.

Eid Mubarak! Eid Sa'id

-PO

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

Celebrating our family pillars on Mother’s Day

Today, we celebrate you, the pillars of faith, love, and wisdom in our families and communities. Your tireless dedication, nurturing hearts, and guidance shape not only the lives of your children but also the moral and spiritual fabric of our society. Every sacrifice you make, every lesson you teach, and every prayer you offer leaves a lasting impact across generations.

As you are honoured today, may God continue to bless you abundantly, grant you strength in every challenge, joy in every moment, and peace in every season of life. Your role in shaping the future is invaluable, and your love remains the foundation upon which our communities thrive.

With your continued sound motherhood and prayers, a new Nigeria is POssible. -PO

[Arsenal @Arsenal]

THIS CLUB ❤️

[Fabrizio Romano @FabrizioRomano]

Premier League’s youngest goalscorer ever: Max Dowman. ❤️🤍💎

[Premier League @premierleague]

Max Dowman.

Age 16 years and 73 days.

The Premier League’s youngest-ever goalscorer. 👏

[Arsenal @Arsenal]

Max Dowman. The youngest ever goalscorer in the Premier League.

[Arsenal @Arsenal]

BELIEF.

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

When Countries Fail to Plan

Many people wonder why any adverse development in the global economy quickly impacts Nigeria. A recent example is the tension involving Iran, which led to an increase in global oil prices and, subsequently, a rise in petroleum prices in Nigeria.

A few weeks ago, petrol was selling for less than ₦1,000 per litre, but today it costs over ₦1,200 per litre. Diesel, which was also priced below ₦1,000 per litre, is now over ₦1,500 per litre. These rapid increases illustrate how quickly external shocks can affect the Nigerian economy.

The reason for this is straightforward: most countries, whether they are oil-producing or non-oil-producing, maintain strategic petroleum reserves to cushion against supply or price shocks. This means that when there is a disruption in the global oil market, they can release part of these reserves to stabilize supply. However, Nigeria lacks such a buffer, so the impact is felt almost immediately.

The underlying issue is a lack of planning. Countries that engage in planning create buffers against shocks, while those that do not remain vulnerable to them. The old maxim remains true: when a country fails to plan, it has already planned to fail.

A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

Nigeria is facing a troubling contradiction.

What type of country are we trying to bequeath for our children?

The same lawmakers who have proposed a fine of ₦10 million and up to two years in prison for dual political party membership have simultaneously removed certificate forgery, age falsification, and false declarations as grounds for challenging an election in a tribunal. This is in direct contradiction to the provisions of the Constitution of Nigeria (1999, as amended).

This situation raises a fundamental question about the priorities of our political system.

In any serious democracy, the gravest offense in public life is deceiving the people to gain power. Submitting false documents, falsifying one’s age, forging certificates, and making dishonest declarations to electoral authorities are among the most serious offenses in any democracy. Such actions not only lead to automatic disqualification but also warrant criminal prosecution.

Yet today, our electoral system seems more focused on protecting political structures than on upholding the truth.

There is no justification for prioritizing punishment for party alignment over punishing false certificates, forgery, and other forms of deception in the pursuit of public office.

Laws should strengthen democracy, not weaken it. They should promote ethical leadership rather than lower standards for those who aspire to govern.

A nation cannot rise above the integrity of its leaders. If we truly want a better Nigeria, our laws must defend truth, character, competence, and accountability. We cannot continue to tolerate criminal behavior.

A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

My Visit to Western Academy, Umueze-Anam

In continuation of my support for educational facilities, yesterday, Friday the 13th, I visited a school in a rural community, Western Academy, Umueze Anam, in Anambra West. The school, which commenced about three years ago, currently uses local church facilities as classrooms. They welcomed me warmly and shared their dreams and ambitions.

During the visit, and in support of efforts to improve learning facilities, I donated ₦10 million towards the school’s planned infrastructure development, covering both its primary and secondary arms. My hope is that this contribution will help create a better environment for teaching and learning, and enable the students to thrive.

I encouraged the students to take their studies seriously, reminding them that education opens the door to limitless opportunities. With hard work and determination, they can compete with anyone, anywhere, and go on to become successful in life.

Reflecting on my own journey, I shared that part of my primary education was at St. Augustine Primary School, Umuoba Anam. I urged the students not to be limited by their environment, but to remain disciplined, focused, and committed to their dreams. Greatness can come from anywhere when opportunity is combined with determination.

With students like those I met at Western Academy, my faith is renewed in a New Nigeria that is POssible. -PO

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

Revalidation of My ADC Membership

On the 31st of December, leading figures from across Igboland gathered in Enugu in a historic meeting of the “who is who” in the region. The purpose was clear: to call on Igbo leaders, intellectuals, and stakeholders to join the ADC as the most credible platform for political renewal and responsible governance.

At the meeting in Enugu, prominent leaders from across the region were in attendance. From Enugu came Chief Okwesilieze Nwodo and Hon. Gilbert Nnaji, among others. From Imo were Hon. Emeka Ihedioha and Chief Achike Udenwa, among others. From Abia were Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe and Onyema Ugochukwu. At the same time, while Anambra was represented by the likes of Senators Ben Ndi Obi, Victor Umeh, and Tony Nwoye, among others, including numerous members of the National Assembly and the State Houses of Assembly. Their presence underscored a shared conviction that the South-East must work together with a united voice and common purpose.

Yesterday, the 8th of March, we once again gathered in Awka to formally flag off the membership validation and registration exercise. The event also attracted a wide spectrum of leaders and stakeholders, including 2 Senators, 5 members of the National Assembly, 6 members of the State Houses of Assembly, and a host of dignitaries.

Speaking during the event, I urged all opposition parties to come together in the determination to confront and end bad governance. The forthcoming election in 2027 will not merely be a contest between political parties; it will be a defining choice between the Nigerian people and bad governance.

Following the flag-off ceremony in Awka, we moved to Agulu, where I personally completed my membership validation and encouraged others to follow suit. Our message is simple, meaningful change begins with participation.

The journey toward a New Nigeria that is POssible continues. -PO

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

From Ibadan to Achina: Empowering Minds, Building Nations

A few weeks ago, I visited Dominican University in Ibadan, Oyo State, where I donated ₦30 million to support their educational development. Yesterday, March 6th, I was at Peter University in Achina/Onneh, continuing my commitment to support institutions dedicated to shaping the minds and futures of our young people. On that occasion, I also donated another ₦30 million to Peter University to aid its growth and academic development.

For me, education is one of the most enduring investments that any society can make. It not only opens doors for individuals but also strengthens communities and prepares nations for the challenges of tomorrow. Whenever the opportunity presents itself, I consider it a privilege to contribute, even in a modest way, to institutions devoted to learning, character formation, and service to humanity.

My visit was not merely ceremonial; it was an affirmation of my belief that universities should remain centers where young men and women are inspired to dream beyond their immediate circumstances and see themselves as citizens of a wider world.

A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

Yesterday, Friday, 27 February, I joined other notable Nigerians, including Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State and his Deputy, Sir John Onyeme, as well as former Governors James Ibori and Ifeanyi Okowa. Serving and former members of the National and State Assemblies, and other dignitaries, to attend the funeral Mass of the late distinguished Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, at St. Augustine Catholic Church, Ibusa. Delta State.

We paid our last respects to the distinguished Senator, who served as a senator representing Delta North.

May God Almighty who called him home grant him eternal rest in His kingdom and grant his family and all who mourn him the fortitude to bear his irreplaceable loss. -PO

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

Yesterday, after attending the funeral of the late Senator Peter Nwaoboshi in Ibusa, Delta State, I travelled to Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to celebrate the 70th birthday of my respected senior, Mr. Tony Eze.

Tony was my senior at Christ the King College, Onitsha. Even at that young age, he stood out for his strong sense of responsibility, and constant encouragement to us to take our studies seriously. Those enduring qualities of care, integrity, and commitment to the common good have defined his life’s journey.

I wish him continued good health, strength, and many more years of impactful service to humanity.

With people like him, a new Nigeria is POssible. -PO

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

Politics of Zero Humanity

It is profoundly disturbing that while we, the politicians, continue to obsess over the 2027 elections—spending our energy scheming about how to capture, grab, and run the next election—the first two months of 2026 have reportedly seen the killing of over 1,000 Nigerians and the abduction of several thousand others.

This is the painful reality confronting our nation. From Zamfara State to Kwara, Ondo, Kebbi, Edo, Benue, Adamawa, Plateau, and many other states, families have buried loved ones, and communities have been emptied by gunshots and fear.

In over 25 states across all geopolitical zones this year alone, there have been major violent attacks on innocent citizens, kidnappings by armed bandits, mass shootings, village invasions, and brazen assaults on worshippers and travellers. The scale of bloodshed and the number of deaths in just two months in Nigeria are even worse than what we see in countries officially at war. Yet the urgency with which we discuss these tragedies does not match the urgency of our discussions surrounding zoning formulas, party structures, and campaign strategies.

This is the tragedy of our politics.

We debate power sharing while citizens are sharing funeral programs. I watched in tears yesterday as families in the Doruwa Babuje community in Plateau State buried their dead after attacks by armed terrorists, but our media and leaders were focused on discussions about party issues and the 2027 elections, when we aren't even sure we will be alive to see it, given all the deaths happening in our country today. We strategise about 2027 while Nigerians struggle to survive 2026. This is inhumane.

We must elevate human life to a sacred status in our national priorities. Leadership is not about winning elections; it is about saving lives. We can, and we must, aspire to a Nigeria devoid of bloodshed—a Nigeria where governance is measured not by political dominance but by the safety and dignity of its people.

History will not remember how many strategies we perfected for 2027; it will remember whether we acted when Nigerians were dying. We must choose Nigerian lives over politics. We must put Nigerians first.

A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

[Peter Obi @PeterObi]

Farewell to a True Servant of the People

Yesterday, we were in Nsukka, Enugu State, for the funeral of one of the most remarkable personalities I met in politics, Distinguished Senator Okechukwu Cleophas Ezea. From the day I met him and throughout our political journey together, he remained deeply committed to the welfare of the people, especially the people of Nsukka.

If you gave him a sachet of pure water, he would always ask, “Where is the one for the people of Nsukka? Where is the one for humanity?” I was pleased that the Bishop of the Nsukka Diocese, Most Rev. Igwebuike Ona, in his homily, said the same thing — that Senator Ezea would often tell him he wanted peace, progress, and unity in his senatorial zone, and that if not being a senator would help achieve that, he was ready to step aside.

May God Almighty, who has called him home, grant him eternal rest, comfort his family, and all of us who mourn him, and most importantly, inspire his people with his legacy to continue representing the good people of Nsukka. -PO