Peter Obi blames leadership failure for Nigeria's economic and security crises

Peter Obi, the presidential candidate for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has criticized the current All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration, stating that Nigeria’s primary challenge is leadership failure rather than a lack of resources. In an address marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Day, Obi argued that the government has failed to convert the nation's wealth into security, productivity, and shared prosperity.

Obi highlighted several critical socio-economic issues facing the country, including widespread poverty, insecurity, and hunger. He reported that more than 140 million Nigerians are living in poverty and hardship. He also noted significant educational and employment crises, stating that between 18 million and 80 million children are out of school, and over 35 million young Nigerians are unemployed or underemployed.

Furthermore, Obi warned of escalating food insecurity, suggesting that up to 40 million Nigerians could face extreme hunger by the end of 2026. He also cited rising concerns regarding terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, high maternal and infant mortality rates, and alarming levels of drug prevalence among the youth.