ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has said Nigeria’s governance challenges are not complex, insisting that deliberate policies, investment in human capital, and inclusive leadership can fix the country’s problems.
Obi made the remarks during an interview on the Nevon HQ podcast hosted by broadcaster Rufai Oseni, where he outlined his approach to tackling poverty, unemployment, and economic stagnation if given the opportunity to lead the country.
He argued that national transformation must begin with unity and a sense of belonging among citizens.
“I will start transformation by uniting this country, bringing it together to be a country everybody will be proud of.
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“These things are not rocket science. Countries across the world have done this. What they did is simple. I will deliver good governance to people,” he said.
Obi added that his administration would prioritise social inclusion and poverty reduction through targeted investments in critical sectors, particularly education.
“I will ensure social inclusion and reduce the level of poverty. To do this, we will invest in critical areas of development such as education,” he stated.
He further stressed that development is achievable when governments focus on the right policies and sectors, noting that several countries have demonstrated this globally.
The former Anambra State governor also emphasised the importance of equipping young Nigerians with practical competencies, stating that technical and vocational education would form a central part of his development agenda.
“We must ensure that people go through technical training,” he said.
Drawing lessons from Indonesia, Obi highlighted the role of small and medium enterprises in economic growth, saying they remain the backbone of successful economies.
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“In Indonesia, for instance, there are ministries of micro, small and medium businesses. Ninety per cent of individuals come from this level,” he said, urging stronger support for entrepreneurs and small businesses.
He also disclosed that his party’s policy proposals would soon be made public in its manifesto.
“You will see our manifesto; the party will soon release it,” he said.
On fuel subsidy removal, Obi maintained that while he supports ending the subsidy regime, the process should have been more structured and consultative.
“I would have removed subsidy, but in an organized manner. I would not have announced it on inauguration day. I would have sat down with experts before I made the decision,” he said.
Obi also questioned the impact of current economic reforms on ordinary Nigerians, arguing that policy decisions should ultimately improve citizens’ living conditions.
“Now that he (President Tinubu) has removed subsidy and deregulated the naira, what is the impact on average Nigerians?” he asked, referring to Bola Tinubu.
He concluded that Nigeria’s challenges require practical governance solutions rather than complex theorising, insisting that education, skills development, and support for small businesses remain central to national progress.