The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has pledged to prioritize citizens’ welfare, economic stability and security if elected president in the 2027 general elections.
Obi made the pledge in his Independence Day address, saying he would use his four-year tenure to travel across the country, engage directly with Nigerians and gain a better understanding of their challenges.
The former Anambra State governor also promised to make governance measurable and accountable, with a focus on improving the welfare and productivity of Nigerians.
Obi said his administration would take decisive action against insecurity, promising that farmers would be able to return to their farms, children would return to school and businesses would operate without fear.
“We will confront insecurity decisively so that our farmers can return to their farms, our children can return to school, businesses can operate freely, and families can live without fear,” he said.
Obi Criticizes Tinubu Administration
Obi said Independence anniversaries should provide an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s progress and challenges.
He criticized the APC-led administration, arguing that Nigeria continued to face serious problems despite the promises made by political leaders in 2023.
According to Obi, the country is grappling with widespread poverty, a large population of out-of-school children and persistent insecurity linked to terrorism, banditry and kidnapping.
He said Nigeria’s major challenge was not a lack of resources but what he described as the failure of successive governments to translate those resources into human development, productivity, security and shared prosperity.
Obi also referred to his recent visit to Sokoto State with his running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, where they held consultations on insecurity, poverty, unemployment, drug abuse and the number of children out of school.
Obi Pledges Domestic Presidential Holidays
The pledge comes about a month after Obi criticized the practice of past and current presidents spending their holidays abroad.
He argued that an elected president should remain in Nigeria during such periods and use the opportunity to engage directly with citizens.
Obi said that, if elected, he would mandate domestic vacations for the president, arguing that the country’s leader should use the periods to visit areas facing serious security and developmental challenges.
“Within the first one year, Nigerians will begin to see tangible impacts of purposeful and effective leadership.”
— HE Peter Obi’s 1st October speech. pic.twitter.com/5RQiG7sPIz
— Chude (@Chude_ND1) October 1, 2026
