The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s decision to embark on a three-week vacation in Europe, saying the President should be more focused on addressing the challenges facing Nigerians.
The Presidency had announced that Tinubu’s trip was part of his annual leave, with London, United Kingdom, as his first destination. It said the President would return to Nigeria after the working vacation to join the campaign for the January 2027 election.
However, Obi faulted the decision, arguing that Nigeria is facing serious economic, security and social challenges that require greater attention from the country’s leadership.
“Nigeria is in deep crisis. Nigerians can barely afford food and transportation. Insecurity is ravaging communities, and thousands of children are unable to access education because of insecurity.”
The former Anambra State governor also criticised the alleged amount being spent on presidential travel while critical sectors of the economy remain underfunded and Nigerians continue to face hardship.
“Leadership is about priorities.”
Obi argued that when citizens struggle to afford basic necessities, access healthcare, educate their children or live safely, the President should prioritise fixing the country rather than repeatedly travelling abroad.
He also questioned why Tinubu could not take his vacation in Nigeria, saying he looked forward to a time when the President could visit destinations such as Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Cross River, Bauchi and Ebonyi for holidays.
According to Obi, the President should serve as Nigeria’s chief promoter of domestic tourism, as leaders in other countries do.
He said increased domestic travel by political leaders, celebrities, businesses and ordinary Nigerians could create significant economic opportunities by supporting hospitality, transportation, agriculture, entertainment, crafts and small businesses.
“Tourism creates jobs.”
Obi added that domestic tourism could attract investment and foreign exchange while allowing local communities to benefit directly from Nigeria’s natural and cultural resources.
He argued that Nigeria should stop neglecting its own tourism potential while spending money to enjoy attractions abroad.
The NDC presidential candidate concluded that Nigeria needs “leadership that puts Nigeria first; leadership that cares and plans for a better Nigeria.”
Source: Peter Obi’s statement on X.
