MY ADDRESS TO MARK THE COMMENCEMENT OF THE 2027 PRESIDENTIAL AND NATIONAL ASSEMBLY CAMPAIGNS
21 August 2026
Dear Compatriots,
Members of the Press,
Distinguished ladies and gentlemen,
Wednesday, 19 August 2026, marked the official start of the campaign period for the 2027 Presidential and National Assembly elections.
There is no doubt that this is a defining moment for our democracy. This moment gives Nigerians the opportunity to assess the records, ideas, and plans of those seeking their mandate to lead their country at a time of grave uncertainty in our rapidly changing world.
I consider myself quite privileged to be one of those seeking your mandate to deal with these challenges facing our country.
I enter this contest with one firm conviction: Nigeria can work, and Nigeria must work.
Nigeria faces several serious challenges. Some of them are indeed of existential proportions.
According to the IMF, 63%, or over 140 million Nigerians, live at or below the national poverty line, while humanitarian agencies estimate that 35 million people will need food assistance during the 2026 lean season. About 3.6 million Nigerians remain internally displaced, largely because of conflict and insecurity. Each year, millions of young people enter the labour market, yet too many struggle to find productive opportunities. Weak infrastructure, unreliable power, insecurity, and the excessive cost of doing business continue to burden households and constrain enterprise.
These are more than statistics. They reflect the daily realities of Nigerian families, farmers, workers, students, and businesses.
Yet I do not believe Nigeria lacks the ability to overcome these challenges. We have the people, resources, market, talent, and enterprise. What we must do now is turn these strengths into security, productivity, and shared prosperity.
LEADERSHIP MUST DELIVER RESULTS
My successful private-sector experience, studies in institutions of repute on policy and business matters, and my service as Governor of Anambra State have shaped my understanding of public leadership. Government must manage resources responsibly, set clear priorities, and measure the outcomes of its decisions. Public office is not a reward; it is a responsibility to the people.
In Anambra, I prioritised the foundations of long-term development: education, healthcare, infrastructure, fiscal discipline, and institutional capacity. I do not present that record as perfect, but as an experience from which Nigerians can draw their own conclusions.
Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso brings a different but complementary governing experience.
As Governor of Kano State, he focused strongly on education, technical training, scholarships, infrastructure, and human-capital development. His administration’s investments in education and skills showed an understanding that the people are a state’s most important long-term resource.
Our experiences are different, but our conclusion is the same: Nigeria must invest in its people and manage public resources with discipline.
BUILDING AN ECONOMY THAT WORKS
Nigeria needs more than reactive reforms. We must focus on the questions that matter:
Are Nigerians better off than they were four years ago? Can they afford food, education, and healthcare? Can businesses produce, expand, and create jobs? Can young people find productive work? Can farmers work safely and get their produce to market?
“This Is Our Small Way Of Thanking Our Governor, Alex Otti For Doing a Great Job For Us.” ~ Moment a Lady Prepared Snacks And Shared Them With Construction Workers Building a New Road On Their Street As a Gesture Of Appreciation.👏♥️
On this auspicious occasion of the birthday of His Excellency, Mr. Peter Gregory Obi, CON, we celebrate not only a statesman of uncommon integrity but also a leader whose life of service and compassion continues to impact positively on humanity. Mr. Obi’s journey in public service has been marked by discipline, transparency, and a commitment to human development, values that have distinguished him as one of Nigeria’s most exemplary leaders.
His unwavering commitment to education, healthcare, and philanthropy reflects a life dedicated to service and humanity. May this new year bring you greater strength and fulfillment.
Happy Birthday, Okwute!
Reflections on My 65th Birthday
Today, July 19, 2026, marks my 65th birthday. At sixty-five, birthdays should naturally become moments of deep reflection - moments to look back with gratitude to Almighty God for His abundant graces, examine the journey so far, and ask how the remaining years can be devoted more meaningfully to the service of God and humanity.
Perhaps in countries where basic human needs have largely been met, where institutions function effectively, and where citizens enjoy a greater measure of security and dignity, such attainments may rightly call for elaborate celebrations. In Nigeria, however, our reality compels a different kind of reflection.
Our nation is blessed with enormous human and natural resources, yet millions of our people continue to struggle with challenges that demand our collective attention. We cannot afford to celebrate ourselves excessively while many around us are burdened by poverty, ill health, unemployment, and limited opportunities. Rather, occasions such as this should remind us of our responsibility to contribute towards building a nation where future generations can genuinely celebrate.
This is why I have always seen birthdays not merely as occasions for personal celebration, but as opportunities for sober reflection, thanksgiving, and a renewed commitment to service.
As I reflected today, I came to a simple conclusion: the greatest celebration of life is not what we receive from others, but the lives we can touch positively.
This conviction has guided my approach throughout my years in business, in the corporate world, and as Governor of Anambra State. In each of these roles, I have tried to see every privilege not as a personal entitlement but as an opportunity to improve the lives of others.
Whenever people or institutions sought to celebrate me with expensive gifts or elaborate ceremonies, I encouraged them instead to redirect those resources towards projects that would have a lasting impact. Over the years, this philosophy has resulted in the building of schools, hostel blocks, support to schools, and other facilities that continue to benefit the less privileged. I have always believed that resources meant for personal comfort can often be transformed into instruments of hope for many.
The greatest honour anyone can receive is not found in gifts, ceremonies, or public admiration, but in knowing that one’s life has contributed, however modestly, to making another person’s life better.
Today, therefore, I give thanks to Almighty God for the gift of life and for bringing me to this important milestone of 65 years. I began the day with a Mass of Thanksgiving in Onitsha, thanking God for His grace, protection, guidance, and the countless blessings He has bestowed upon me over the years.
After the Mass, I proceeded to St. Raphael’s Hospital, Umueri, a small rural hospital in Anambra East Local Government Area. In furtherance of my belief that birthdays should be occasions for service rather than self-indulgence, I donated the sum of ₦10 million to support the hospital’s work of providing quality healthcare to the people.
As I was conducted around the hospital and saw patients in their moments of vulnerability, I was reminded again of our shared humanity. Some of those receiving care may not even have the financial means to settle their hospital bills, yet they deserve compassion, dignity, and access to quality healthcare. Their condition was a reminder that leadership, in its truest form, is about caring for people, especially those who cannot repay our kindness.
Hospitals and schools remain two of the greatest investments any society can make. A hospital preserves life; a school shapes the future. Supporting both is, therefore, not just an act of charity - it is an investment in humanity and in the future of our nation.
At the Convention Centre of the Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, I joined His Excellency, the Vice President Alhaji Kashim Shettima GCON, my brother Governors, distinguished guests, and investors from across Nigeria and around the world for the opening ceremony of Invest Lagos 3.0.
It was an honour to stand alongside other distinguished leaders and share the unfolding story of Abia State, a story of resilience, transformation, and opportunity. I began by expressing my gratitude to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, whose vision and selflessness created this platform for states to showcase their strengths. Lagos is a megacity, but Nigeria needs more thriving cities to absorb growth.
I shared how Aba, following two decades of effort, now enjoys 24-hour electricity through Geometric Power. This achievement is the foundation for industry, manufacturing, and investor confidence. From Aba, we will be transmitting reliable power to Umuahia and other parts of the state, because we understand that energy is the lifeblood of economic growth.
In three years, we have completed over 400 roads, introduced electric buses, and built infrastructure that makes movement easier and greener. Healthcare has also been central: Abia is ranked Nigeria’s most health-emergency prepared state (SBM 2025 Report), with hundreds of centres refurbished, over 800 professionals recruited, and 15% of our budget dedicated to the sector. Our most ambitious vision is the Abia Medical City, already prepared with 200 hectares of land and access roads, now awaiting investors to help us build a world-class healthcare destination.
I also highlighted the Abia Industrial and Innovation Park (AIIP) in Owaza, Ukwa West LGA, where we have resources in oil and gas, and are laying the foundation for industries that will power the future.
In my remarks, I emphasized that Abia is not competing with Lagos but complementing it. Nigeria’s growth requires multiple thriving cities, and Abia is ready to deliver.
To our investors, like Lagos, Abia State is open, prepared, and positioned for growth. Together, we will shape a Nigeria where businesses prosper, healthcare flourishes, and innovation leads the way.
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.
It is my pleasure to announce that we have officially commissioned the landmark Nnenna Oti Bus Terminal in Umuahia, and it is now ready for public use. The project is a multimodal transport hub designed to accommodate more than 340 buses at once, powered by sustainable infrastructure and connected to our growing network of electric buses.
The facility is named in honour of Prof. Nnenna Nnennaya‑Oti, the courageous INEC Returning Officer in the 2023 governorship election, whose integrity and patriotism remind us that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary results by simply standing for the truth.
Her name on this terminal is not just about one person, but a tribute to all electoral officials, security operatives, party agents, and citizens who resisted intimidation and defended democracy.
With 20 electric buses already in operation and more on the way in the coming weeks, the project signals our bold vision for a modern, safe, and sustainable transport system in Abia. The facility is also supported with independent power and water systems to ensure uninterrupted operations.
In my address titled “Raising the Bar”, I stated unequivocally that we have moved beyond the era of small ambitions. We refuse to be boxed into margins that underestimate our strength. This principle underpins all our undertakings.
I extend special commendation to the contractors, Planet Projects Limited, for a job well done in delivering this landmark facility. I also appreciate the dedication of the Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, the SSA Transport, Dr. Obioma Nwaogbe, and their team for the critical role they played in bringing this vision to reality.
I call on all residents and members of the host community to take ownership of this facility, to maintain a clean environment, and to guard against vandalism. This terminal belongs to you, and its success depends on your care. I also urge all Abians to pay their taxes regularly. Development cannot be sustained without collective responsibility, and every naira contributed helps us deliver the future our people deserve.
"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.
Today, I was greatly honoured to receive a free nomination form from the National Working Committee of the Labour Party, presented by our National Chairman, Senator Nenadi Usman at the Abia State Governor’s Lodge in Asokoro, Abuja.
I sincerely thank the leadership of our great party, including the National Chairman, the National Secretary Hon. Obioma Iheanacho, and all members of the NWC, for this honour. I assure you that I do not take this gesture lightly.
I pledge never to disappoint the Labour Party and will continue to support it in every possible way. I commend Senator Usman for her leadership in steering our party out of the protracted crisis that once plagued it. Today, I am confident that the coast is clear for the Labour Party to move forward into the next general elections, as all legal impediments have been effectively resolved, with no subsisting litigation against our party.
To the good people of Abia State and our numerous well-wishers, this recognition belongs to you. Your support and faith inspire me daily to deliver quality governance and remain steadfast in service.
Our journey continues with renewed energy and firm resolve.
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.
Today, we celebrate the resurrection of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. The resurrection is the cornerstone of the Christian faith, a powerful reminder that light triumphs over darkness, hope conquers despair, and life prevails over death.
Through His victory over the grave, humanity has received the gift of salvation, the assurance of eternal life, and the promise of renewed hope. Easter calls us to embrace love, forgiveness, and compassion, values that strengthen our communities and uplift our nation.
As we rejoice in this season of renewal, may the blessings of Easter bring peace to our hearts, unity to our families, and prosperity to our land.
Happy Easter to all!
Yesterday at Abia State University, Uturu (ABSU), I was honoured to be received by a mammoth crowd of vibrant students as we commissioned landmark projects and unveiled bold initiatives that will shape the future of our great institution.
* Commissioned a refurbished 5 MVA Power Station (upgraded from 2.5 MVA) to ensure steady electricity supply for ABSU, Uturu, and adjoining communities.
* Delivered 3 retrofitted hostels (A, B & C) to improve student living conditions.
* Flagged off construction of:
- 5,000-bed Female Hostel
- 5,000-bed Male Hostel
- Faculty of Agriculture & Faculty of Law buildings
- 1.8km Internal Road Project
At the 30th–32nd Combined Convocation Ceremony, I also announced:
- Automatic lecturing jobs for all First-Class graduates as Graduate Assistants (after NYSC).
- Postgraduate scholarships up to PhD level for First-Class graduates in public universities nationwide.
- A ₦200 million Business Grant to support 100 graduates with innovative enterprise ideas in agriculture, ICT, clean energy, and more.
We also celebrated our best graduating student, Mrs. Oluchi Etumsi, with a personal token, and congratulated our distinguished honourees including His Imperial Majesty, the Ooni of Ife, Barr. Dr. Allen Onyema, and Dr. Stella Okoli.
Education remains the bedrock of our vision for Abia State. We are committed to building institutions that inspire excellence, innovation, and leadership.
Step by step, project by project, ABSU is being transformed into a hub of innovation, excellence, and leadership.
Celebrating a Statesman
Today, 5 March 2026, I joined other Nigerians in Abeokuta, Ogun State to celebrate the birthday of His Excellency, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, two-time former President of Nigeria.
Chief Obasanjo remains a towering statesman, an exceptional leader of our time whose voice continues to resonate in the affairs of our nation. I admire his steadfastness, courage, and deep sense of justice and patriotism. Over the years, he has stood as a strong advocate for national unity and a fearless critic of bad governance, constantly reminding leaders that Nigeria must rise above divisions and work together for the common good. His moral sense of right and wrong has made him the conscience of the nation.
May God continue to bless him with good health, wisdom, and many more years of service to Nigeria and humanity. -PO
Happy 84th Birthday to Our Father in Faith, Daddy E.A. Adeboye!
“The righteous shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing.”
— Psalm 92:14 (KJV)
We give thanks to God for 84 impactful years marked by a life that has refreshed nations, revived hearts, and strengthened the Body of Christ. Your life remains a powerful testimony of humility, obedience, and unwavering commitment to the Kingdom of God.
Through your ministry, generations have been raised, nations have been touched, and the name of Jesus has been exalted across the earth. Your strength, wisdom, and spiritual stature remain an enduring blessing to the Body of Christ.
As you journey onward in this glorious race, may the Lord continually clothe you with strength, surround you with peace, and cause your latter days to overflow with even greater glory.
We love you, honour you, and celebrate you joyfully today and always.
Happy Birthday, Daddy G.O!
#EAA84
#DaddyGO
#KoinoniaGlobal
On the 21st of February, let us come out and vote for ADC.
Let us vote for DrMo
Let us vote for progress.
Let us vote for a new AMAC.
Let us vote for our future and our dreams.
Let us vote for a society that truly cares, for our elders, for our young and energetic people, and for everyone in our community.
This is possible. This is achievable.
It can be done, and it will be done.
-DrMo
Earlier today, I participated in the swearing-in ceremony of the NYSC 2026 Batch A Stream 1 corps members at the Orientation Camp in Umunna, Bende LGA. In my remarks, I reminded them that service is a seed, one that, when nurtured with discipline, empathy, and commitment, can grow into a life of purpose and leadership. I encouraged them to embrace the journey ahead not just as a national duty, but as a rare opportunity to shape their future. I told them that wherever they were posted, school, hospital, court, or office, their task is the same: serve with excellence, and the rewards will follow.
I shared with them that Abia is a state that rewards excellence. We have built systems that value merit over state of origin, and we are intentional about attracting and retaining the best talent. I cited the example of our current Head of Service, Mr. Benson Ojeikere, who hails from Edo State but served in Abia. He distinguished himself during his service year, emerged as the best corps member of his batch, and today, he leads the State’s civil service. That is the kind of story we are proud to tell, and one we hope many of them will replicate.
I also acknowledged the tireless efforts of the NYSC leadership in Abia, led by Mrs. Gladys Adama. Their commitment to the welfare and integration of corps members has been exceptional. As a government, we will continue to support their work, because we understand that investing in young people is investing in the future of our State.
As I concluded, I reflected on my own journey. I began my post-university life and did my NYSC at Efon Alaaye, now in Ekiti State. That experience shaped my worldview, kick-started my career, and laid the foundation for the path that eventually led me here. If that journey brought me to the office I now occupy, I believe these young Nigerians can go even further. I urged them to serve with heart, dream boldly, and make the most of this defining chapter.
* ATTENTION *
Following the resolution of the Obidient Movement National Collegiates Meeting held between 2nd and 6th January 2026, the South-West Obidient Movement is set to commence physical mobilisation into the ADC structure.
📅 Dates will be announced soon.
*Highlights*
* Registration of members into the ADC, in collaboration with ADC leadership.
* Reconciliation and inauguration of State Collegiate Teams across the South-West.
* State of the Nation Address.
🇳🇬 Arise and shine, Nigeria — for a New Nigeria is Possible.