Peter Obi accepted the Nigeria Democratic Congress presidential nomination on Saturday in Abuja. He declared that a new Nigeria is possible under his leadership.
Nigeria shouldn't be ranked among the world's hungriest nations, Obi said bluntly. He promised to transform the economy and tackle insecurity if elected president.
Job creation and ending hunger would come through smart investments, he noted. His administration would prioritize transparency, productivity and national unity, he stressed.
Current challenges facing Nigeria are severe and demand urgent action. Insecurity, poverty, unemployment, hunger and poor healthcare plague the nation.
But Obi expressed confidence Nigeria can turn things around. Efficient resource management and visionary leadership would make the difference, he argued.
Power generation emerged as his central focus during the speech. Nigeria generates just 4,000 megawatts for over 200 million people.
"Nigeria today has the most citizens without electricity access globally," Obi said. South Africa and Egypt generate over 40,000 megawatts despite smaller populations.
He committed to adding a minimum of 10,000 megawatts within four years. Power sector overhaul is essential for economic growth and industry, he explained.
On security, Obi plans intelligence-driven and technology-based approaches. Addressing root causes like poverty and unemployment matters just as much.
Healthcare needs serious transformation too, according to him. Current insurance coverage sits at roughly 10 percent of the population.
He wants to double that to over 20 percent in four years. Healthcare spending would rise to at least 10 percent of GDP under his watch.
Every one of Nigeria's 8,809 political wards would get a functional primary healthcare centre. This represents a major commitment to grassroots health services.
Education received equal attention in his blueprint for change. Increased school investment, teacher training and vocational skills would transform human capital.
Food insecurity looms large across Nigeria right now. Over 35 million Nigerians face acute hunger projections despite agricultural potential.
"We have absolutely no justification for being among the world's hungriest nations," Obi stated firmly. His government would prioritize agricultural productivity from day one.
Nigeria must shift from consumption to production in agriculture. Young farmers need support and incentive structures, he emphasized.
Micro, small and medium enterprises would receive targeted backing. Tax incentives, affordable credit and job-creation policies would empower young Nigerians.
NDC National Leader Sen. Seriake Dickson presented the party flag to Obi.
He called it "a symbol of victory for Nigerians" during the ceremony.
Party National Chairman Sen. Moses Cleopas highlighted recent growth.
NDC has expanded significantly since its registration three months ago.
