Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has promised to move Nigeria from a consumption-driven economy to a production-based economy if elected in 2027.
Obi made the statement on Friday in Onitsha, Anambra State, while addressing journalists on his plans and priorities ahead of the 2027 presidential campaign.
He said Nigeria could not import its way to prosperity and must instead increase domestic production, process its raw materials and become more competitive in global markets.
“Nigeria cannot import its way to prosperity. We will produce more of what we consume, process more of what we produce, and compete more effectively in global markets.”
Obi said his campaign would serve as a national conversation on how to rebuild Nigeria and improve living standards.
He noted that although he and his running mate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, have different backgrounds and experiences, they share a common goal of improving the lives of poor and vulnerable Nigerians.
Obi Lists Economic Priorities
The NDC candidate said Nigeria must invest in its people and manage public resources responsibly, while challenging Nigerians to assess whether they are better off than they were four years ago.
He questioned whether citizens can currently afford food, education and healthcare, whether businesses can grow and create jobs, and whether young people and farmers have sufficient opportunities.
Obi said Nigeria’s population of more than 200 million presents a major domestic market and labour force that can be transformed into productive human capital.
He listed agriculture, manufacturing, technology, construction, energy, creative industries and services as sectors that could drive investment, enterprise and economic growth.
According to him, Nigeria must turn its natural resources into value-added industries and use its domestic market as an engine for production.
Obi Speaks on Insecurity, Healthcare and Jobs
On insecurity, Obi said the crisis had displaced millions and disrupted agriculture, education, trade and investment.
He proposed stronger intelligence gathering and coordination among security agencies, improved policing and border management, and greater use of technology to tackle insecurity.
He also highlighted healthcare, unemployment and democracy as key issues that would feature in his campaign.
Obi urged Nigerians to scrutinise the records and plans of all presidential candidates before choosing who to support in 2027.
“Any presidential candidate who lacks the resolve to travel across the country, meet the people, and respond to their questions lacks the capacity to govern it.”
