Peter Obi’s Reflections on Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day
Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has shared his thoughts on Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day, marking October 1 as a time for both gratitude and reflection.
In a statement posted on social media, Obi expressed thanks for Nigeria’s natural, human, and material resources but also called for sober reflection on the nation’s shortcomings. He particularly addressed leaders, noting their role in the country’s stagnation and missed opportunities.
He highlighted Nigeria’s underperformance in key development indicators, including security, education, and economic stability, urging a collective commitment to change and nation-building. Obi emphasized the need for a truly independent Nigeria, free from corruption and division, and focused on the welfare of its citizens.
His full statement reads:
“Anniversary celebrations offer moments to reflect on the past, celebrate achievements, and plan for the future. As Nigeria marks its 64th independence anniversary today, we should be thankful for the abundant resources God has blessed us with—resources that, if properly harnessed, could build a great nation.
However, today should also be a day of sober reflection, especially for us leaders. Our actions and inactions have led to the stagnation and failures Nigeria faces today.
As the saying goes, an unexamined life is not worth living. We must look critically at our nation’s journey over the past six decades. Have we lifted our people out of poverty, or have more fallen into it? Have we provided education for every Nigerian child, or are we content with over 18 million out-of-school children? Have we built a thriving economy, or led the country into the worst debt crisis in its history?
By every measure of development, from basic necessities to more intricate areas, Nigeria is underperforming. We rank among the most insecure and corrupt nations globally, with a disturbing disregard for the rule of law.
Our nation stands precariously on the edge of a precipice. Compared to other countries that gained independence around the same time—before or after us—Nigeria is a nation in decline, in urgent need of rescue.
On this day, we must make a firm commitment to build a nation that is truly independent—free from the state capture and divisions that have caused so much suffering. We must strive for a New and Productive Nigeria that prioritizes the welfare of its people.
That is the independence we should aspire to celebrate—a future where Nigeria’s greatness is not just a dream, but a reality.” – PO