Peter Obi Opens 2027 Campaign, Declares: ‘Nigeria Must Work’

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, has formally declared his 2027 presidential campaign open, pledging to confront Nigeria’s economic and developmental challenges and build a country that works for all Nigerians.

Obi made the declaration on Friday while addressing journalists at a world press conference to mark the commencement of the 2027 election campaign.

“I consider myself quite privileged to be among those seeking the mandate to deal with the challenges facing our country today. I entered this contest with one firm conviction: Nigeria can work, and Nigeria must work,” Obi said.

The former Anambra State governor said his campaign would focus on issues affecting Nigerians rather than ethnicity or religion, stressing that the country possessed the human and material resources required to overcome its challenges.

“Each year, millions of Nigerians enter the labour market, yet too many struggle to find productive opportunities. I do not believe Nigeria cannot address these ongoing challenges. We have the people, resources, talent and enterprises. Leadership must deliver results,” he said.

Obi said his experience in the private sector and his tenure as governor had shaped his understanding of responsible public leadership, arguing that government must manage public resources prudently.

“My successful private-sector experience and my service as Governor of Anambra State have shown me what public leadership is all about. Government must manage resources responsibly. Public office is not a reward; it is a responsibility to the people,” he stated.

The NDC candidate also challenged all presidential candidates to subject their records, credentials and policy proposals to public scrutiny ahead of the election.

“Every candidate must be willing to defend their credentials, defend their records, and subject their vision to open scrutiny,” Obi said.

He further criticised the practice of political leaders relying on proxies and surrogates, insisting that candidates seeking Nigerians’ mandate should personally account for their records and visions.

Obi said his campaign would therefore be centred on Nigerians’ major concerns and would seek to present practical solutions to the country’s economic and social challenges.